Climate change is seen by many as the issue of our times. Our response will determine the kind of world we leave for our children.

Climate change, left unchecked, may kill millions and leave billions ravaged by disease and illness. Disasters like floods, droughts, heat waves and harmful air quality directly threaten human health.

Secondary threats include disease, malnutrition, water shortages and poor sanitation. These consequences of climate change will form a heavy burden on an already stretched health system around the world. Many systems will buckle and collapse, leaving countries exposed and striking a devastating blow to global public health.

China is especially vulnerable to the devastating health impact of climate change. Its long urbanized coastline means a substantial proportion of the population are vulnerable to floods and rising sea levels.

Its population and agricultural base mean the potentially rapid spread of infectious disease. The onset of droughts and heat waves would be disastrous in a country already grappling with water shortages. The poor will be the hardest hit.

The Chinese government has recognized the potentially devastating impact of climate change and is working to tackle the challenges. China’s long-term vulnerability hinges on the solutions it implements now to contribute to a global solution.

China has two major challenges: mitigation and system strengthening.

While on a per capita level China trails countries like Australia and the United States, its large population and rapid economic growth mean China is fast becoming one of the main contributors to the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.

China needs to reduce its emissions. While seeking alternative energy sources, investing in the development of new carbon-constrained technologies is critical for sustainable development.

Safeguarding against the impact of climate change also involves strengthening health systems so they withstand future threats. In recent years China has been strengthening its health system capacity and is continuing to develop effective systems for prevention, detection and response. Surveillance systems that measure the human health consequences of environmental risks are key.

There is also potential to implement strategies that both mitigate greenhouse emissions and reduce health burdens. Significant gains can be made in areas like transport, energy and urban policy and practice. China has the potential to be a world leader in these and other climate change solutions.

WHO is supporting China in its development of a National Environmental Health Action Plan. The plan is the result of collaboration between the Ministry of Health, the State Environmental Protection Agency and the Chinese Meteorological Administration to provide the strategic direction for China to proactively address development and climate change issues facing it.

Tackling the health impact of climate change is not an easy fight. It requires a sustained and genuine cross-sectoral commitment. Initiatives like the China Daily CEO Roundtable are to be commended for bringing together partners from government, the private sector and the UN to discuss potential solutions to what may be the world’s most pressing challenge.

Foremost among these is the vital role of corporate social responsibility and the private sector in effecting change.

Finding solutions to climate change is not a choice. It’s an urgent need that will determine the future public health of our world.

By Henk Bekdam

(The author is WHO Representative in China)