Dr. María Neira is the Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization (WHO). She is a medical doctor with a specialization in endocrinology and metabolic diseases, and holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University (USA). She has devoted her professional career to public health, environmental health, and international cooperation. Dr. Neira has held senior positions in Spain’s Ministry of Health, the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance, and the World Health Organization. At WHO, she leads global efforts to address the health impacts of air pollution, climate change, chemical exposure, urban health, and environmental risks. She is a leading international voice on the links between health, environment, and climate change, and has been instrumental in promoting policies to reduce air pollution and advance sustainable, healthy urban development worldwide. Throughout her career, Dr. Neira has received numerous international awards and recognitions for her leadership, commitment, and contribution to global public health and environmental protection.