Why was the ATACH established?
During the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), the health community achieved a significant milestone by placing human health at the forefront of climate change efforts. The UK government, as the President of COP26, along with the World Health Organization (WHO), Health Care Without Harm (HCWH), and UNFCCC Climate Champions, promoted a health program for the first time in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) processes. Two of the program's major initiatives were to assist countries in developing climate-resilient and low-carbon sustainable health systems. Countries began to announce their commitments to these initiatives during COP26 in November 2021, and over 60 countries have signed up to date. In June 2022, the ATACH was launched as a mechanism to support countries in their delivery of these commitments.
Who is eligible to join the ATACH?
The ATACH is open to the following categories of participants:
- Government institutions with a mandate for climate change and health
- Intergovernmental organizations
- Non-governmental organizations, including civil society groups
- Private-sector entities, represented through international business associations
- Philanthropic foundations
Please note that individuals cannot apply to become part of ATACH. If you represent a government institution or any other category, please follow the application steps provided here.
Can countries which haven't made commitments to the COP 26 Health Programme Commitments participate in the ATACH?
Yes, countries that have not committed officially are welcome to participate in the ATACH. These countries should email the ATACH Secretariat to express their interest in joining the initiative. It is important to note that participation at the Ministry of Health level or equivalent government agency is required. We welcome participation from all countries to work together in building a more climate-resilient and low-carbon health system to protect public health from the impacts of climate change.
How can I contact the ATACH?
To contact ATACH, individuals can reach out to the ATACH Secretariat, which manages the administrative aspects of the initiative. If you have any queries or questions, please use this contact form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
What are the expectations and responsibilities of the ATACH members?
Expectations and responsibilities of ATACH members are outlined in the ATACH TORs. In summary, on joining ATACH, Participants undertake to:
- Adhere to these Terms of Reference;
- Promote the work, vision, goals and objectives of the ATACH;
- Actively initiate and participate in ATACH activities, discussions and deliberations;
- Participate, as appropriate, in the ATACH General Meeting;
- Participate, as appropriate, in ATACH working groups;
- Engage with other Participants in the ATACH priority areas; and
- Share knowledge and information (lessons learned, case studies, programme results, etc.) with other ATACH Participants as appropriate.