There is also an important opportunity in framing climate change as a health issue. Climate change can seem like a distant environmental problem, discussed in terms of temperature targets and emissions trajectories. But its health consequences are immediate, tangible and deeply personal. There are also direct health benefits from climate action – such as active travel and less red meat consumption – that can help build support. Indeed, our previous research finds that health framings can increase public support for climate action, including among people less concerned about climate change.
Growing public interest
Our latest findings provide some grounds for optimism. A significant development is the growing public interest with the relationship between climate change and health. Using Google search data, we find that global public engagement on this topic has increased approximately sixfold since 2016, reaching its highest recorded level in 2025. Importantly, engagement is highest in low- and middle-income countries and small island developing states, often countries facing the greatest climate-related health threats despite contributing little to global emissions.
Our media indicator, tracking news coverage in 75 countries, shows growing attention to climate change and health. Meanwhile, a new indicator examining national climate legislation, developed by Dr Aditi Dutta, reveals a fiftyfold increase in laws referencing health between 2000 and 2025. These developments matter because public awareness, media attention and legislation can help create the conditions for action.
Slipping down the political agenda
However, our findings are not all positive. Perhaps the most concerning finding is that growing societal engagement is not being consistently matched by political attention. Our analysis of government statements at the United Nations shows that political engagement with climate change and health has declined for the fourth consecutive year. This is particularly troubling when evidence of climate-related health impacts is becoming stronger and action more urgent. Of course, what governments say internationally is not the same as what they do. But political rhetoric matters. The issues governments emphasise reveal something about their priorities and help shape international cooperation and policy agendas.
Our findings reinforce a simple but important point: responding effectively to the health threats posed by climate change requires more than scientific evidence. It also requires sustained public attention, political commitment, and resources to turn evidence into action.
Growing societal engagement is encouraging. But declining political engagement reminds us that progress cannot be taken for granted. Understanding who is paying attention, who is being left behind, and whether engagement translates into action is essential if we are to protect people's health in a rapidly changing climate.
