Doctors Lead Climate Action Milestone

Doctors Lead Climate Action Milestone

27 Apr 2026

Since it began in 2001, DEA has played an important role in raising awareness about how environmental issues affect people’s health. The organisation has worked to bring the voice of doctors into national conversations about climate and public health.

DEA Executive Director Dr Kate Wylie said the group is proud of the progress made over the years. Experts also say the organisation shows that a doctor’s role goes beyond treating patients in clinics.

Dr Nicole Sleeman from the RACGP said DEA has made a strong and consistent impact, especially as climate-related health risks continue to grow.

The group was founded by several Australian doctors who wanted to highlight climate change as a serious public health issue and push for action.

Over the years, DEA has been involved in many key efforts. These include pushing for Australia to sign the Kyoto Protocol, raising concerns about pollution from coal power, challenging new coal projects, and supporting action against offshore oil drilling.

DEA has also helped drive changes in medical education, encouraging future doctors to understand climate-related health risks. It has called for reducing gas use in homes and for stronger policies to protect both people and the environment.

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said GPs see the effects of climate change on patients every day, including from heatwaves, air pollution, and changing disease patterns.

He added that doctors have an important role in helping communities stay healthy and in supporting a more sustainable healthcare system.

As DEA marks this milestone, healthcare leaders say its work will continue to be important in building a healthier future for both people and the planet.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: RACGP / newsGP report on Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA) 25-year anniversary

 
 

Categories

Popular Posts

Recent Posts

Tags