Urban Climate-Health Action: A New Approach to Protecting Health in the Era of Climate Change

This report was written by The Rockefeller Foundation’s Health Initiative in partnership with Global Nation, with editorial support from Global Health Strategies and design support from Ahoy Studios.

Climate change is now a public health emergency, disproportionately impacting cities where nearly 70% of the global population will reside by 2050. The Urban Climate-Health Action Report highlights how rising temperatures, extreme weather, and air pollution are driving increases in disease, food insecurity, and mortality – especially among vulnerable urban populations. Despite this, fewer than one in four cities have emergency protocols that address the health consequences of climate change. This report calls for an urgent shift toward local, climate-informed health systems built on collaboration between health, meteorological, and urban planning sectors.

Backed by case studies from cities like Dhaka, Lusaka, Rio de Janeiro, and Freetown, the report outlines a three-step approach: effective communication, cross-sectoral early action, and institutionalized partnerships. It also emphasizes the critical role of empowered local leadership, supportive national policy, and global tools to accelerate action. With early investments proving to save lives and reduce costs, the report urges funders, policymakers, and city leaders to act now – scaling solutions that protect both people and planet.