TEHRAN – Shina Ansari, head of the Department of Environment (DOE), believes that building resilience is key to tackling climate change. In her view, it’s not just an environmental issue but a health crisis as well. Iran, located in West Asia, is experiencing climate impacts that are more severe than the global average. Increased temperatures are influencing disease spread, Ansari remarked at a conference on environmental health at Shahid Beheshti University.
The World Health Organization projects that climate change could lead to more than five million extra deaths over the next two decades. Countries need to strengthen their health systems to cope with these rising challenges. Furthermore, Ansari pointed out that climate change can worsen food security, create poverty, and escalate conflicts and migration.
She explained that health systems must be ready to anticipate and manage climate-related issues. Current problems include drying wetlands, land degradation, and increased dust storms—all exacerbated by climate shifts.
To counter these challenges, the DOE has launched a climate management program focusing on three key areas:
Green Economy: Promoting low-carbon industries by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy practices.
Adaptation Strategies: Enhancing monitoring and prevention measures in water, agriculture, and health.
Organizational Coordination: Fostering collaboration among agencies to address environmental challenges effectively.
At the recent COP30 conference, Sediqeh Torabi from the DOE stressed the need for consistent financing to support climate initiatives in developing countries. Without this support, Iran struggles to meet ambitious emissions reduction targets.
Adaptation is crucial for Iran’s future, with an emphasis on protecting water sources and supporting vulnerable communities. As Torabi noted, the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities means tackling barriers that prevent access to funding and technology is essential for successful climate action.
If we consider the historical context, this situation echoes past global health threats, like the HIV/AIDS crisis, which prompted countries to rethink health strategies and improve resilience. Effective responses required not just funding but also political commitment—lessons that remain relevant today.
In summary, Iran faces a complex web of climate challenges that impact health and stability. Building a resilient health system is not just a necessity, but a moral imperative for the future. For more detailed insights, you can explore the World Health Organization’s report.
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Iran,climate change,Department of Environment (DOE)
