New Report – Interlocked: Midwives and the Climate Crisis

Earlier this year, midwives from 41 countries shared their experiences of working in communities affected by climate change through our survey, Midwives’ Experiences and Perspectives on Climate Change. Their voices shaped our new report, Interlocked: Midwives and the Climate Crisis, which highlights how midwives are already responding to the health impacts of climate disasters like floods, wildfires, and extreme heat—and why they must be included in climate action plans.

What did we learn?

• Climate change is damaging community health: 75% of midwives reported that climate change is harming the communities they serve, with rising rates of preterm births, food insecurity, and restricted access to care during disasters like floods. 
• Midwives are critical first responders: Midwives are often the first and only healthcare providers on the ground in crises, delivering care during wildfires, floods, and extreme heat. 
• Midwives face significant challenges: Many midwives reported stress, burnout, and even displacement due to climate disasters, 76% agree that the climate crisis has negatively impacted their work. 
• Midwives need more support: Respondents called for training, resources, and inclusion in climate preparedness plans to strengthen their ability to respond to growing challenges. 
• Midwifery care is inherently sustainable: By reducing unnecessary interventions and providing care closer to home, midwives lower the carbon footprint of healthcare services and support climate-resilient health systems. 

Why midwives matter in the climate crisis

Midwives play a role in building climate resilience across three key levels: by supporting more sustainable SRMNAH services, by empowering women to build their own resilience, and by responding to crises as they arise.  

With climate-related disasters becoming more frequent, resilient health systems are more important than ever. Investing in midwifery is a direct way to mitigate the impact of a warming world. They are often trusted community members, with critical networks and established community links. With the right training, resources, and support, midwives can lead and deliver effective crisis response ensuring women, newborns, and families receive essential care. Including and empowering midwives to participate in climate preparedness planning and response strategies strengthens health systems and equips communities to better face future challenges.  

Call to action

We’re calling on governments and policymakers to integrate midwives into national climate strategies. By supporting midwives with training, tools, and resources, we can create stronger, more resilient health systems that address climate change while improving outcomes for families everywhere.