Latest Developments in Global Climate Change - Issue 99

Latest Updates on Global Climate Change

Eliza Chan Man-yee

With climate change, the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events are increasing, affecting the health and productivity of both outdoor and indoor workers in hot environments. According to the latest report – "Climate Change and Workplace Heat Stress" – published by the World Health Organization and the World Meteorological Organization, when the wet-bulb globe temperature exceeds 20°C, for every 1-degree increase, workers' productivity decreases by 2–3%. Individuals working in hot environments should be particularly mindful of health risks such as hyperthermia, impaired kidney function, and dehydration.