European health groups call to phase out fossil fuels

Europe is the fastest warming continent in the world. Rapidly moving to a fossil-free age has become an imperative: it is the only way to deliver health protection, energy security, and economic stability for all. Fossil fuel production, combustion, and use negatively impact human health and the environment from the moment that oil, coal, and gas are extracted. The air emissions and hazardous waste produced result in a staggering burden on people and society.

We represent diverse health sector constituencies including doctors and other health care professionals, scientists, public health experts and groups, patients, and health insurance funds in Europe. We are united in calling for the protection of people and the planet on which we all depend on for survival.

We call on EU policymakers to swiftly phase out fossil fuels, adopt evidence-based binding fossil fuel exit plans, end energy poverty and prioritise vulnerable groups, as well as end misinformation and disinformation.