Climate Health Risks Threaten $1.5 Trillion in Productivity; Urgent Action Needed to Safeguard Economy
October 11, 2025
Climate-related health risks pose a significant threat to global economic sectors, with projected losses reaching $740 billion in food and agriculture, $570 billion in the built environment, and $200 billion in healthcare output by 2050.
Despite the growing threat, less than 5% of global climate adaptation funding is allocated to protecting human health from climate impacts, leaving many communities vulnerable.
While substantial investments are made in infrastructure and energy adaptation, far less funding is directed toward reducing health risks caused by rising temperatures, extreme weather, and pollution.
Eric White of the World Economic Forum emphasizes that protecting worker health is essential for business continuity and resilience amid climate change.
Companies are encouraged to adopt climate-resilient practices, including installing cooling systems, educating workers, and developing climate-smart products to stay competitive and safeguard productivity.
Over the coming years, an estimated additional $1.1 trillion will be spent on treatment costs for climate-related illnesses, adding to the economic burden.
A World Economic Forum report warns that climate-driven illnesses could result in at least $1.5 trillion in lost productivity worldwide by 2050, underscoring the economic danger of climate-related health issues.
Proactive measures such as upgrading infrastructure, expanding health benefits, and investing in climate-health research can help mitigate economic losses and foster new growth opportunities.
Failing to address climate-health risks will lead to costs far exceeding the investments needed for prevention, highlighting the importance of early action for economic and social stability.
Summary based on 1 source
Get a daily email with more Global Economy stories
Source

The Cool Down • Oct 11, 2025
Experts issue warning on 'dangerous gap' threatening global economy: 'Essential to business continuity'