· 4 min read
Climate change threatens the environment, human health, and the global economy. According to a new report presented at the World Economic Forum, by 2050, it could cause 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in losses worldwide.
The report, "Quantifying the Impact of Climate Change on Human Health," analyzes the climate crisis through a new lens, providing a precise framework for the indirect impact climate change will have on human health and the global economy.
According to the report, floods and droughts will be the leading causes of climate-related deaths, while heatwaves will be the primary cause of economic losses. The projected rise and spread of climate-sensitive diseases like malaria are anticipated to burden healthcare systems with an additional $1.1 trillion due to climate-induced impacts.
Urging immediate action, it highlights the imperative for global emissions reduction strategies and enhanced healthcare infrastructure, advocating collaborative endeavors to overhaul systems, notably healthcare, in response to this escalating crisis.
What role do companies play? Are they stoking the flames?
Companies have a crucial role in creating a network of positive impacts; there is much talk about "E" but little about the "S" of the famous ESG acronym. Sustainable infrastructures that help address climate change and environmental protection are necessary.
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, companies can take a series of measures to improve their social sustainability (S) and contribute to the well-being of people and communities where they operate. This can include adopting inclusion and diversity policies to ensure equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or socio-economic background. Companies can promote gender equality by ensuring equal pay for equal work and enabling fair representation of women in leadership roles.
A company committed to creating sustainable infrastructures and considering social impacts as part of its business strategy can contribute to building a sustainable future for all. It enhances the company's reputation and image and can also attract investors and customers who want to associate with a company with ethical and socially responsible values.
Shyam Bishen, Head of the Center for Health and Healthcare and member of the World Economic Forum's Executive Committee, stated that "recent progress will be lost unless critical measures for emissions reduction and mitigation are improved, and decisive global action is taken to build healthcare systems resilient to climate change and adaptable."
Climate change, therefore, poses a threat to both health and the global economy, and without urgent action to mitigate global warming, humanity's health is in serious jeopardy.
Fire on fire: is our economy in danger?
Moreover, climate change jeopardizes human health and the global economy. Companies worldwide are already grappling with the adverse effects of global warming, anticipating substantial economic losses in the years ahead.
Warmer temperatures are causing droughts, fires, and floods, which in turn are destroying infrastructure, crops, and natural resources. This directly impacts businesses experiencing financial losses due to supply chain disruptions, increased production costs, and decreased consumer demand.
Companies that rely on natural resources, such as agriculture and fishing, are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of climate change. Warmer temperatures and extreme weather conditions are destroying crops and fish populations, making it difficult for these businesses to remain profitable.
Yet, even companies not directly reliant on natural resources feel climate change's repercussions. For example, floods and storms can cause supply chain disruptions, making it difficult for companies to obtain the materials and supplies they need to produce their products.
How does climate change alter demand?
Furthermore, climate change is also influencing consumer demand. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more extreme, consumers are shifting their purchasing preferences, favoring products that are energy-efficient or resilient to harsh weather.
What can we do? #keepitgreen
To address these challenges, companies must reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the consequences of climate change. This can include adopting more energy-efficient technologies, diversifying sourcing, and creating emergency plans to address supply chain disruptions.
Companies must be transparent about their environmental impact and strategies for addressing climate change. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. They support companies committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Climate change threatens both health and the global economy, and without urgent action to mitigate global warming, humanity's health is in serious jeopardy. Companies must take measures to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the consequences of climate change. They must be transparent about their environmental impact and strategies for addressing climate change. Through a proactive and sustainable approach, companies can ensure their resilience and ability to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
illuminem Voices is a democratic space presenting the thoughts and opinions of leading Sustainability & Energy writers, their opinions do not necessarily represent those of illuminem.
