Question

To ask the President of COP26, what discussions he has had with his counterparts in other countries on the effects of air quality on health.

By tackling the causes of climate change, we can also reduce the impacts of poor air quality on premature deaths throughout the world. Through our COP26 campaigns, we are seeking closer integration with public health objectives to facilitate a global green, healthy and sustainable recovery from the COVID 19 pandemic.

Through the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), the COP26 Unit is engaging with countries on the COP26 Health Programme which supports increased ambition on climate change and health, including the relationship with air quality. The engagements also highlight the opportunity for the health sector to reduce carbon emissions in a way that also improves air quality. The government is also working with non-governmental organisations, including the World Health Organisation, to engage with health professionals internationally to advocate for stronger climate action, including addressing the health impacts from air quality.