Climate change is not a fallacy, WHO states

Paris, France: The world is already late in taking action on matters to do with climate change, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said.

WHO pointed out to those who think that climate change is a fallacy that its effects are already affecting many lives?

WHO Secretary General Dr Margaret Chan said the effects of climate change are already being felt in the pacific areas.

"We have island countries really being affected by the rise of sea level along the pacific, which has led to climate refugees. If nothing is done, these islands and many more around the world are going to be submerged," she said.

She said many capital cities are highly polluted and do not even have quality air to breathe, hence increase of respiratory infections and allergies.

Chan called upon companies using Hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCF) gases in evaporative coolers and air conditioners should start thinking of alternatives since the gases are also as bad as carbon dioxide in destruction of the ozone layer.

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"People should reduce use of carbon dioxide and stop burning coal, firewood and cow dung. We need to address the climate change issue with a lot of soberness. If nothing is done, it will affect our future generations," she said.

While speaking at aside event in Paris, France where party states are meeting to deliberate the way forward on the matter, Chan said climate change is the defining issue in the 21 century.

"All commitments on climate change are good, but they should be focused on people since climate change is causing thousands of deaths. Over seven million People are dying from diseases related to climate change like dengue fever, cholera, heat waves and floods. What more evidence do we need?" she asked.

By 2030 it is estimated that climate change will cause additional quarter of a million deaths whose burden will be heaviest on children, the poor and old.

"We are hoping that the climate agreement will not only be a climate treaty, but will also significantly apply as a public health treaty. Healthy people and healthy climate are two sides of the coin," she said.

She proposed to the negotiators to ensure that higher standards for vehicle emissions are set since this will save two million lives every year and reduce global warming by a half a degree by 2050.

"Reform global energy subsidies," she said.