Climate Health Risks Threaten $1.5 Trillion in Productivity; Urgent Action Needed to Safeguard Economy

October 11, 2025
Climate Health Risks Threaten $1.5 Trillion in Productivity; Urgent Action Needed to Safeguard Economy
  • 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.

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