There is strong evidence that shows climate change has brought underlying health issues. The International Panel on Climate change in 2015 stated that climate change has disrupted many people’s health and livelihood. If no action is taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, more communities will be badly affected.

At the Paris Climate Conference in 2015, around 200 countries pledged to take action in keeping the average rising temperature below 2°C. Countries like Canada suggested working on keeping temperatures below the 1.5°C increase.

Researchers from the World Health Organization in 2015 stated that health equity and climate change can be addressed at the same time just by having the majority of the people shift from private vehicles to public transport, cycling, and even walking.

Having people shift to an active mode of transport can lead to a reduction in cardiovascular and chronic diseases that are related to an inactive lifestyle and air pollution. It can also reduce vehicle-related deaths and injuries.

According to Medical Officers from the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area in 2014, the health benefit of avoiding injuries and health issues is estimated to be $2.2 billion per year. It’s a cost-effective way to work on different issues at the same time for a sustainable future.