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    EU Health Sector Advocates for Mandatory Heat Protection Policies

    Health

    EU health groups seek binding heat protection as Europe strengthens climate resilience planning. HEAL asserts that national Heat Health Action Plans should incorporate clear, ambitious, and quantifiable goals aimed at shielding populations from climate-related dangers, particularly extreme heat. The organization emphasizes prioritizing vulnerable groups such as seniors, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions. It also draws attention to socially and economically disadvantaged populations. HEAL has called on the EU to allocate funds specifically for health and climate resilience projects as part of the bloc’s 2028 to 2034 long-term budget. The Standing Committee of European Doctors, or CPME, has similarly urged for swift measures concerning heat-health preparedness across the continent. It recommends that authorities at EU, national, and local levels develop, execute, and regularly review comprehensive heat adaptation plans. CPME highlights that extreme heat exacerbates cardiovascular and respiratory issues and contributes to premature mortality, especially among vulnerable groups. The organization has also separately appealed for binding EU-wide objectives related to climate resilience and health, including national adaptation targets. Focus on Prevention and Readiness in Heat-Health Strategies On June 11, 2026, WHO/Europe released an updated guide on Heat-Health Action Plans, emphasizing the urgent threat posed by extreme heat to public health. The framework addresses eight key domains, such as governance, early warning systems, protecting vulnerable populations, communication strategies, health system resilience, exposure reduction, surveillance, and evaluation. It provides structured guidance for national, regional, and