An open letter calling for the phase-out of gas in homes and buildings by 2025 has been sent to the New South Wales government.
The letter has been signed by medical professionals including Healthy Futures, a health advocacy organisation that works to protect public health from the impacts of pollution and climate change.
It was also signed by NSW Doctors for Environment, a group of doctors who are working to promote environmental sustainability and protect public health.
The open letter, which has already been signed by dozens of leading NSW health professionals, warns that gas poses a serious risk to human health.
Gas burning releases pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, benzene, and radon, which can cause respiratory problems, cancer, and other health problems.
Gas also contributes to climate change, which is the greatest threat to public health, the open letter said.
It calls for the phase-out of gas in homes and buildings by 2025.and to retrofit public buildings, including hospitals and schools, to be gas-free.