Climate Change and Workplace Heat Stress: WHO-WMO Report Warns of Rising Health Risks for Workers

A new joint report by the World Health Organization and the World Meteorological Organization reveals how extreme heat driven by climate change is endangering workers worldwide. From agriculture and construction to fisheries, millions are facing severe health risks including heatstroke, dehydration, and kidney problems. The report highlights that worker productivity drops by 2 to 3 percent for every degree above 20°C, posing a serious economic challenge. With 2024 confirmed as the hottest year on record, experts call for urgent occupational heat action plans to protect vulnerable groups and safeguard global health and productivity.