Ecological transition and health: the role of physicians and healthcare

Franco Bergesio; Marco Lombardi

doi:10.33393/gcnd.2025.3528

Authors

Franco Bergesio Gruppo di Progetto Green Nephrology Società Italiana di Nefrologia, Firenze - Italy
Marco Lombardi Nefrologia e Dialisi Ospedale del Mugello ASL Toscana Centro, Firenze - Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33393/gcnd.2025.3528

Keywords:

Ecological transition, Global warming, Health risks

Abstract

Climate change and pollution are major public health threats, contributing to the rise of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. The medical community plays a key role in raising awareness and promoting sustainable healthcare practices. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the risks of unsustainable resource exploitation. Pollutants like microplastics, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and PFAS chemicals contaminate air, water, and food, posing serious health risks. Despite scientific evidence, global efforts to combat climate change remain insufficient, with international agreements struggling to limit fossil fuel use. The medical community must look beyond disease treatment and address the environmental and socioeconomic determinants of health. A sustainable future depends on reducing pollution, limiting global warming to 1.5°C, and implementing eco-friendly healthcare policies. Time is running out, and urgent action is needed.

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