Antimicrobial Resistance in a Changing Climate: One Health Policy Framework (2025-2026)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria and viruses change over time and no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines (e.g., antibiotics, antivirals). AMR is caused by the misuse and overuse of these medicines in human healthcare and animal farming. It is a leading cause of death globally. 

Increased global temperatures are associated with increased bacterial growth rates. Experts predict that the number of deaths due to AMR will rise exponentially by 2050 due to climate change. To address AMR in the context of a changing climate, a One Health approach that includes collaborative, multidisciplinary policy action and recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health is essential.  

This project team consisted of students and faculty from Duke University, Duke Kunshan University and the Duke-Ruhuna Collaborative Research Center in Sri Lanka. Team members presented at a global webinar hosted by the AMR Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Platform convened by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, United Nations Environment Program, World Health Organization and World Organization for Animal Health. The team shared evidence and proposed policy recommendations about how to better integrate climate change into global AMR action frameworks. Along with publishing a policy commentary, the project team submitted formal comments to the drafters of the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance. 

Timing 

Summer 2025 – Spring 2026 

Antimicrobial resistance in conflict-affected settings (AMR Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Platform; virtual; April 2026) 

Bridging the policy gap between climate change and antimicrobial resistance (The Lancet Planetary Health, vol. 8, December 2024).  

AMR in a Changing Climate-Bass Connections Team Profile (Team profile)