Resilient cities at the intersection of climate and health

More than 50% of the world’s population lives in urban areas, projected to increase to 70% by 2050. City residents report greater life satisfaction and have greater access to services, technology, and economic opportunities than non-urban dwellers. Despite these benefits, urban residents face substantial challenges to achieving health and well-being. Those in cities experience greater exposure to air pollution and extreme heat, both of which are associated with adverse respiratory, cardiovascular, and mental health outcomes. Obesity, hypertension, diabetes, infectious diseases, injuries and motor vehicle accidents are also more prevalent in urban areas. Beyond these physiological consequences, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concludes that climate change adversely impacts mental health. Studies link climate-fueled disruptions to many forms of psychopathology, including anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and suicide. Within cities, those living in concentrated poverty and/ or with poor access to health and social services are disproportionately vulnerable, resulting in profound inequities. As such, cities are on the frontline to promote climate resilience, health and equity. Building capacity to serve cities’ most vulnerable populations reduces strain on healthcare systems, where competing priorities require scarce resources to be allocated equitably and efficiently. Representing nearly 100 cities worldwide, the Resilient Cities Network reaches 220 million urban dwellers and is dedicated to accelerating sustainable development by ensuring social equity, promoting climate resilience, and enabling economic value.

source :
https://resilientcitiesnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Resilient-Cities-at-the-Intersection-of-Climate-and-Health.pdf