Climate Change and Health: How a Changing Planet Affects Our Wellbeing

Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue — it is increasingly a health issue too. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the way we live, work, and stay well is being shaped by our changing climate. Every part of the health sector, including health insurers, has a role to play in supporting healthier, more resilient communities.

Why climate change matters for health

A recent Deloitte Insights report highlights the strong link between climate change and human health, noting that rising temperatures, extreme weather, and environmental degradation are already affecting wellbeing worldwide. This theme was echoed at the International Federation of Health Plans (IFHP) conference in Vancouver, where global leaders explored how the health sector can adapt and contribute to sustainability.

Here in Aotearoa New Zealand, we have seen the impacts firsthand. Events such as the Nelson floods and Cyclone Gabrielle show how climate‑related disasters can disrupt communities, strain health services, and affect both physical and mental health.

For more on wellbeing in challenging times, explore our Health Insights.

The health sector’s climate footprint

While private health insurers have a relatively small direct carbon footprint, the wider health system is a significant emitter. Globally, healthcare contributes around 5% of total greenhouse gas emissions, driven by:

• High energy use in hospitals
• Medical waste
• Anaesthetic gases
• Transport and supply chains

In New Zealand, the health sector is the largest emitter in the public sector (excluding transport), according to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA). Hospitals are especially energy‑intensive, requiring constant heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and equipment operation.

In developing countries, limited access to clean energy means health facilities often rely on diesel, kerosene, or coal — increasing air pollution and contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Why reducing emissions matters

If emissions continue to rise, the health sector will face increasing pressure from climate‑related illnesses such as heat stress, respiratory conditions, and vector‑borne diseases. Reducing emissions is not only about prevention — it is also an opportunity to improve community wellbeing, reduce costs, and build resilience.

How private health insurers can help

International conversations show that private insurers can play a meaningful role by:

• Encouraging sustainable practices in private hospitals and clinics
• Supporting members to understand and reduce the climate impact of their healthcare
• Investing in climate‑focused innovation and social impact initiatives
• Collaborating across the sector to develop new solutions

Some organisations overseas are already leading the way. For example, Bupa has partnered with hundreds of groups working to improve planetary health and reduce environmental harm.

Building healthier, more resilient communities

We have seen how events such as COVID‑19 lockdowns affected mental and physical wellbeing. As climate‑related events become more common, communities will need support to stay connected, healthy, and prepared.

As a member‑based organisation, UniMed works closely with employers and their teams. Supporting wellbeing — now and in the future — requires collective effort across workplaces, communities, and the health sector.

For more UniMed insights, visit our Health Insights hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does climate change affect health?

Climate change increases risks such as heat stress, respiratory illness, infectious diseases, and mental health challenges.

Why is the health sector a major emitter?

Hospitals require large amounts of energy for heating, cooling, lighting, sterilisation, and equipment, making them energy‑intensive environments.

What role can insurers play?

Insurers can encourage sustainable healthcare practices, support member education, and invest in climate‑positive initiatives.

Kind regards,
Louise Zacest
Chief Executive Officer, UniMed