the PHANZ supports a COP31 that protects health and advances climate justice
The Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ) has signed on to the Climate and Health Alliance’s (CAHA) open letter urging the Australian Government to champion a bid for COP31 that places people and health at the centre of climate action.
COP is the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Australia, in partnership with Pacific nations, has bid to host the next COP (COP31) in 2026. This presents a unique opportunity for the region to show leadership on climate and health—at home and on the global stage.
The open letter calls for the Australian Government to ensure that health and wellbeing are central to climate negotiations and commitment, and to work alongside Pacific partners to deliver a COP that strengthens relationships and amplifies Pacific voices.
As outlined in the PHANZ’s recent policy position statement on Climate change and health, climate change is one of the biggest threats to global health, with Pacific peoples among the most vulnerable to its impacts. In Aotearoa New Zealand, the impacts on health are already being observed and are projected to intensify. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption all have profound consequences for health, equity, and wellbeing.
By supporting this open letter, the PHANZ joins health organisations across Australia and the Pacific in calling for a COP31 that protects health, strengthens partnerships, and advances climate justice.
The PHANZ will continue to work alongside partners in across the Pacific and beyond to advocate for climate action that prioritises health and equity.
👉 Read the open letter here: https://www.caha.org.au/open_letter_cop31