Extreme heat driven by climate change is increasingly linked to pregnancy complications, including premature birth, stillbirth and low birth weight. Simon Stiell, the United Nations’ climate chief, raised the concern on Monday at meetings in Nadi, Fiji, held ahead of next month’s COP31 summit in Turkey.
Stiell cited a new survey in which more than two-thirds of health professionals across five continents said they had seen complications associated with intense heat over the past five years. He called for urgent action as periods of extreme temperatures become more common. A separate report from Plan International warned that climate disasters can also raise the risks of child marriage and teenage pregnancy, partly by disrupting health and education services on which girls rely.
Pacific island nations are especially exposed to rising seas and ocean warming. Fiji’s climate minister, Lynda Tabuya, urged support for a “just transition” for countries suffering the greatest impacts. A United Nations report released in August estimated developing countries need $310 billion to $365 billion for adaptation, while only $26 billion in adaptation finance was available in 2023.
The talks also highlighted tensions around Australia, which is leading this year’s climate negotiations while remaining a major coal exporter. Tabuya said she had a “frank discussion” with Australian counterpart Chris Bowen and Pacific officials. She acknowledged that some countries want Australia to halt expansion of coal and gas projects, but said the region was seeking common ground.
Pacific leaders are pressing governments to keep the goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C and to focus more on the oceans. Sea levels are rising at a record pace, and Pacific island countries are experiencing rates about twice the global average. Tuvalu, whose capital Funafuti’s highest point is only 6.6 feet above sea level, is already planning for the possible relocation of its population. Delegates are due to visit the island on Tuesday.