The main message emerging from this new comprehensive global assessment is that premature death and disease can be prevented through healthier environments – and to a significant degree. Analysing the latest data on the environment-disease nexus and the devastating impact of environmental hazards and risks on global health, backed up by expert opinion, this report covers more than 100 diseases and injuries. The updated analysis for the year 2016 (results can be downloaded below under “Updated 2016 data tables”) shows that 24% of global deaths (and 28% of deaths among children under five) are due to modifiable environmental factors. Sixty-eight percent of these attributable deaths and 51% of attributable DALYs could be estimated with evidence-based comparative risk assessment methods, the assessments of other environmental exposures were completed through additional epidemiological estimates and expert opinion. Ischaemic heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers and unintentional injuries head the list. People in low- and middle income countries bear the greatest disease burden. These assessments should add impetus to coordinating global efforts to promote healthy environments – often through well-established, cost-effective interventions. This analysis will inform those who want to better understand the transformational spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals agreed by Heads of State in September 2015. The results of the analysis underscore the pressing importance of stronger intersectoral action to create healthier environments that will contribute to sustainably improving the lives of millions around the world.