Here at #ClimateWeekNYC, I'm struck by the optimism and grit of the leaders gathered here from around the world. The climate-health crisis is undoubtedly daunting, but over the past few days, I've heard about partnerships and programs that have long been "walking the talk," working to mitigate the environmental impact of healthcare and inspiring examples of community-driven solutions to adapt health systems to changing health needs driven by the climate crisis. I've also been fortunate to be able to share examples of how AstraZeneca is taking climate action at scale - from renewable energy and clean heat, to nature-based solutions and embracing a more circular approach.
Through these dialogues, three points have crystalised for me:
- Innovative partnerships can drive health sector decarbonisation at scale. We need to look beyond our immediate sector to develop creative solutions to our toughest challenges.
- In discussing the climate crisis and its impact on health, we cannot forget nature and biodiversity.
- There is no one who will solve this challenge for us - we know what to do and we must take action at scale today, not tomorrow.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to those driving this important action - from scientists in our labs, to environmental specialists and our diverse network of suppliers. To name a few: Nataša Vidmar Ben Norbury Sarah Argoud Joris Silon Andy Wirths Laura Mann Stacy MontejoDarren Trotter Dave Ennis Matt Shaughnessy Fredrik Hellman John Atkinson Pam Cheng
No one is waiting in the wings, it's on all of us to act!
Chair of Neurvati Neurosciences , Former CEO at H. Lundbeck A/S
1moThanks to the Ultragenyx team and Emil Kakkis for driving sustainability within a company that is also changing lives for patients with rare diseases