USAID, CHRI, and PATH launch a new program on climate and health
New Delhi, November 17: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Centre for Health Research and Innovation (CHRI), and PATH announced the launch of the Sustainable Action for Climate Health Alliance for concerted action on climate and health in Indian cities. This initiative, also known as SACH, will bring together policymakers, urban bodies, private sector, health care chains, development organizations, donors, philanthropies, community-based organizations, and innovators to promote cross-sectoral collaboration and improve climate and health outcomes.
A key component of this initiative is the “climate and health pledge,” designed to encourage private sector participation in raising awareness and committing resources to advance sustainable and healthy practices. This pledge will support and drive action by equipping private sector corporations with resources and training to implement sustainable and health-focused practices.
Dr. Atul Kotwal, Executive Director, National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC): “The effects of climate change on health are a global challenge, which require bold solutions. India is committed towards promoting research and technology to combat the health impacts of adverse climate events and build resilience within health systems. It is heartening to note that USAID, CHRI, and PATH have launched the SACH initiative to bring together the public, private sector, and other key stakeholders and promote collaborative action in this domain.”
Michelle Lang-Alli, USAID Health Office Director: “As the earth continues to warm, global communities are at increased health risks from rapid and unpredictable spread of infectious diseases, water and food insecurity, and air pollution. The United States and India are working together to advance climate-resilient health care services and consider the climate impacts of all of our work, including through initiatives like the SACH Alliance.”
Neeraj Jain- PATH's Country Director, India and Centre for Health Research and Innovation (CHRI) representative: “We must act swiftly and intentionally to mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to a different reality. The SACH initiative aims to leverage the strength of partnerships, collective action, and technology and innovation to unlock creative solutions to a mounting challenge unfolding in real time.”
About USAID
USAID is the US government’s premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. USAID works to help lift lives, build communities, and advance democracy. USAID’s work advances US national security and economic prosperity, demonstrates American generosity, and helps countries progress along their development journey. In India, USAID is collaborating with the country’s growing human and financial resources through partnerships that catalyze innovation and entrepreneurship to solve critical local and global development challenges. To learn more, visit www.usaid.gov/india
About CHRI
Centre for Health Research and Innovation (CHRI) is a nonprofit that aims to create lasting public health impact across India. CHRI works with communities, health care professionals, policy makers, innovators, hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacists to bring about sustainable, scalable, and impactful change in public health. CHRI is an affiliate of PATH in India. To learn more, visit www.chri.org.in
About PATH
PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships, and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing health challenges. To learn more, visit www.path.org
Download the SACH pledge. For more information on the pledge, write to Rohan Verma (rverma@path.org) and Mrunmayee Velukar (mvelukar@path.org).
For media inquiries, interview requests, or additional information, please contact Zehra Kazmi (zkazmi@path.org).