Climate Change and Respiratory Health

Event Type: In-person

Event Date: May 20, 2026

Location: Campus Biotech, Geneva

This side event, organized by Health Diplomacy Alliance and Geneva Health Forum, and explores the growing impact of climate change on respiratory health and the increasing burden of respiratory infections worldwide.

Rising temperatures, air pollution, and changing environmental conditions are contributing to worsening air quality, prolonged allergy seasons, and heightened vulnerability to diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Bringing together experts, policymakers, and practitioners, the session will examine how climate-related factors influence respiratory health; particularly among vulnerable populations; and discuss practical prevention strategies.

The event will also focus on bridging research and policy to strengthen public health responses, promote innovation, and enhance resilience in the face of climate-driven health challenges.

Dr. Maria Neira

Former Director of Environment, climate change and health at WHO

Richard PEARSHOUSE

Head of the Environment and Human Rights Division at Human Rights Watch

Prof. Helena Pité

Professor of immuno-allergology
Hospital CUF Tejo, Lisbon

Panagiotis CHASLARIDIS

Senior Policy Advisor
European Federation of Asthma and Allergy Associations (EFA)

Mariam ZAIDI

Journalist, Independant 

Panelists