The article Climate and health: a path to strategic co-financing? by Josephine Borghi and colleagues, published in the Journal of Health Policy Planning, examines the integration of health and climate financing to address the interconnected challenges posed by climate change. The authors propose a framework to differentiate passive co-financing, where cross-sectoral benefits occur indirectly, from strategic co-financing, which aligns health and climate goals to enhance resilience and sustainability. Drawing on a comprehensive literature review and consultations with stakeholders, the study highlights the financial strain climate change imposes on governments, insurers, and households, and identifies significant opportunities for leveraging climate finance to support health outcomes.
The study underscores the need for innovative co-financing models, increased cross-sectoral collaboration, and stronger advocacy for the co-benefits of health investments. It calls for adaptive social protection mechanisms, regional contingency funds, and integrating climate considerations into health sector plans. By aligning health and climate strategies, the article advocates for strategic co-financing as a vital tool to build resilient systems, mitigate risks, and ensure sustainable development in the face of climate-related challenges.