FIP has always recognised the responsibility of the profession towards the environment as well as the role of pharmacists in mitigating the health impacts of environment-related diseases. Examples of our work include a Call to Action to mobilise pharmacists to mitigate the impact of air pollution on health, and a report on green pharmacy practice. In 2021, FIP has taken a step forward in formally recognising the role of pharmacists in the fight against climate change, the single biggest single threat facing us all. We sent a letter to COP26 leaders, making clear our commitment on tackling climate change through pharmacy and raising the visibility of pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists and pharmacy educators in this endeavour. We also signed the Healthy Climate Prescription, an open letter from over 450 organisations representing more than 45 million healthcare workers coming together to call for action to address the climate crisis, including building climate resilient, low-carbon, sustainable health systems and ensuring that pandemic recovery investments support climate action and reduce social and health inequities. The letter was delivered live at an official COP26 event.
This toolkit, developed by the Royal Dutch Pharmacists Association (KNMP), offers essential guidelines for a sustainable and green approach in the pharmaceutical sector.
Originally available in Dutch, the toolkit is now also provided in English to reach a broader audience.
Green Pharmacy – Groene Apotheek KNMP
While climate change is a big threat to health, implementing solutions to address climate change presents a huge opportunity to promote better health and protect people from climate-sensitive diseases. Communicating the health risks of climate change and the health benefits of climate solutions is both necessary and helpful. Health professionals are well-placed to play a unique role in helping their communities understand climate change, protect themselves, and realize the health benefits of climate solutions. This WHO toolkit aims to help health professionals effectively communicate about climate change and health: Toolkit link