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Climate change challenge laid before public health workforce

The Royal Society of Health lecture by the government's chief scientific advisor on 27th June outlined the Science of Climate Change as part of the Faculty of Public Health's annual Conference.

Adaptation to a changing climate was highlighted by Sir David King as necessary to mitigate the impact climate change will have on our lives. The public health community was urged to prepare itself now for the impact of climate change on health.

This comes as the Department of Health is revising its 2001 Health effects of climate change report.

Increased flash flooding was presented as the biggest risk to the UK resulting in the potential loss of life and spread of water-borne diseases. While the heat wave of 2003 killing 32 000 people across central Europe is predicted to be the average summer temperature by 2050.

Urgent action to reduce CO2 emissions was also cited as essential to manage the extent of climate change. The built environment was exemplified as an area where small changes could result in significant reductions in CO2 emissions.

Royal Society of Health CEO, Professor Richard Parish, who chaired the lecture said: "We were delighted to welcome Sir David King to deliver what was a truly stimulating lecture on this cutting edge topic.

"Climate change and public health are inherently interlinked. Many of the measures taken to reduce the rate of climate change by reducing CO2 emissions produce beneficial effects on health.

"The Society actively engages in this debate on various levels including through the Water for Health Alliance promoting the health benefits of tap water for good hydration and reducing the use of plastic."

Sir David King concluded that well-being is a critical factor and should be the focus of a cultural change saying: "If we're going to manage a sustainable future we need nothing less than a total cultural change, in which we first and foremost take care of our environment."

END

02 June 2007

Media Contact
For comment or to arrange interviews please call:
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Notes to Editor
The Science of Climate Change: sustainable development and public health by Sir David King
27th June, 17:00, the Devonshire Park Conference Centre, Eastbourne

Faculty of Public Health Annual Conference - Making public health work
26-28 June 2007 Eastbourne

The Royal of Health is one of the largest and longest-established public health organisations in the UK. We were founded in 1876 to promote joined up thinking between health professionals and we are a networking organisation that cuts across traditional professional boundaries.

The Royal Society of Health (RSH) and the Royal Institute of Public Health (RIPH) will join to create a vibrant new body working to improve health in the UK and beyond. Subject to the approval of members, the Privy Council and the Charity Commission, the new 'Royal' will be launched in early 2008.