On December 17, 2024, the Lancet Countdown released its policy recommendations, in which Mr. Joji Sugawara, Vice President of Health and Global Policy Institute (HGPI), contributed as both a writer and reviewer.
This document outlines the key policy priorities Japan must address to mitigate the severe health impacts of climate change, emphasizing the following areas:

1. Promoting Energy Transition and Health Co-Benefits

Accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is essential to reduce harmful health impacts, improve air quality, and enhance energy security.

2. Protecting Vulnerable Populations from Heatwaves

Strengthening heat adaptation measures, investing in resilient health systems, and advancing community-based solutions are critical to safeguarding vulnerable populations, such as older adults, infants, and workers, from escalating risks.

3. Building Climate-Resilient Healthcare Systems

Decarbonizing healthcare systems, enhancing the capacity of health professionals, and equipping healthcare facilities to respond to climate-induced disasters are key to improving resilience.

This document also reflects perspectives highlighted in HGPI’s policy recommendations, “Integrating Climate and Health for a Sustainable Society: A Planetary Health Perspective on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).” The importance of an integrated approach to health and climate change is underscored as a critical component of Japan’s response to the climate crisis.

For the full document, please visit:
Lancet Countdown Policy Document Public Page

HGPI remains committed to advancing sustainable solutions through policy recommendations in the fields of climate change and health.