Acting on the Climate Crisis: Toward Health System Resilience in the Pacific

Abstract

Pacific Island Countries and Territories are experiencing intensifying health threats due to climate change, including the rising incidence of vector- and waterborne diseases, worsening non-communicable disease and increasing mental health stress. The vulnerability of health systems is compounded by the high proportion of facilities located near coastlines and the lack of essential infrastructure such as electricity, clean water, and sanitation services. Climate change also undermines critical social determinants of health which impact food security, livelihoods, and access to care, particularly for remote and vulnerable populations.

In response, the Pacific has mobilised a strong regional agenda to address the climate-health nexus, supported by high-level political commitments such as the Pacific Health Ministers. This article aims to provide an overview on the escalating health threats posed by climate change and how countries are advancing climate-resilient health systems through governance, adaptation planning, climate-informed surveillance, policy alignment, and cross-sectoral coordination. For example, momentum is building through platforms like the Pan-Pacific Conference on Climate and Health, which has accelerated the translation of regional commitment into action. Countries are implementing climate-resilient health care facility guidelines, conducting vulnerability assessments, operationalising adaptation plans, investing in early warning systems, and expanding inclusive community engagement. These innovations reflect growing efforts to embed resilience into service delivery, infrastructure, surveillance, and multisectoral governance

The Pacific’s collective experience offers a compelling model for how regions can respond to climate-driven health risks with unity, innovation, and equity at the core, ensuring that health systems can protect communities now and into the future. Through sustained cooperation and innovation, the region has the potential to not only adapt but lead in global climate-health resilience.