World Health Leader Calls for a Bold Reallocation of Fossil Fuel Subsidies
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, urged a major shift of subsidies away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy, healthcare facilities, and vital infrastructure in low income countries. The message was shared during a forum focused on environment and human health in Budapest, with details released by WHO’s press service in Geneva.
Ghebreyesus stressed that each year more than 1.4 million lives in the European region and over 13 million worldwide end prematurely due to air and water pollution and other preventable environmental factors. He called for redirection of nearly 600 billion dollars annually in public subsidies from fossil fuels toward clean energy, accessible healthcare, and essential infrastructure that can lift communities out of poverty and improve health outcomes in developing regions. The aim is to reallocate these resources to support reliable, sustainable energy, modern medical facilities, and robust health systems in low income countries, so communities can thrive rather than merely cope with health threats. [Source: WHO]
According to Ghebreyesus, a transition from fossil fuels to green energy is a powerful lever to reduce climate change driven risks, lower environmental pollution, and safeguard biodiversity while advancing public health. He presented the shift as a practical pathway to cut pollution-related disease burdens and to create healthier living environments for families across continents. [Source: WHO]
The WHO leader highlighted that the climate crisis now ranks among the most pressing factors shaping health outcomes. He pointed to El Niño forecasts from the World Meteorological Organization indicating a likely warmer second half of the year, with temperature rises in several regions. He noted that recent records show exceptionally hot days, and he warned that droughts, floods, storms, and heatwaves are expected to intensify, placing greater strain on health systems and communities. The discussion underscored the urgency of preparing resilient health infrastructure to respond to extreme weather and related health risks. [Source: WMO and WHO]
In closing remarks, the forum emphasized that policy choices now determine future health prospects. Strong investments in renewable energy, clean air, water safety, and accessible medical care can reduce preventable deaths and protect vulnerable populations. The message resonated with risk reduction strategies that link environmental health with economic development, emphasizing that health-focused reforms and green transition go hand in hand. [Source: WHO]
Historically, health authorities have underscored the links between environmental policy and population health. As countries navigate the challenges of climate change, the call for rechanneling subsidies takes on renewed urgency. The goal remains clear: build healthier communities through smart investment decisions that prioritize both planetary and human well being. [Source: WHO]