International SOS, the world’s leading health and security services company, recently highlighted insights from the International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report, shedding light on the profound impact of climate change on businesses worldwide. The report reveals important statistics, indicating a growing awareness among respondents regarding the significant ramifications of climate-related phenomena on various aspects of operations and employee wellbeing. This is not a surprise for many, as 72% of respondents believe that extreme weather events will have a significant impact on their business or people in 2024, underscoring the tangible impact of environmental shifts expected on business operations.
In the Middle East, 62% of respondents, when reflecting on the past 12-month experience, perceive an increase in risks related to health, wellbeing, and security. Meanwhile, 20% maintain that these risks have stayed constant, with a further 18% indicating a decrease.
The International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report also outlines the diverse consequences for the workforce, including increased health risks such as heat-related illnesses and associated decreased productivity. Extreme weather events also have the potential to lead to disruptions in global supply chains. Beyond the physical implications, mental health and absenteeism are also key factors, as climate anxiety grips people across the world.
Looking Ahead – Impact in 2024
- 48% of respondents reported that climate change anxiety is an issue that they have encountered among their workforces
- 42% of respondents think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to/mitigate disruptions caused by climate activism
- 41% of respondents think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to / mitigate environmental threats
- 26% of respondents have already reported operational disruption attributed to climate change
Commenting on the medical outlook, Dr Marie-Louise Van Eck, Regional Medical Director, Europe Middle East at International SOS, “At International SOS, we saw a significant increase in the number of climate-related alerts we issued last year. From January to November 2023, we saw a fourfold increase in climate related alerts issued to our clients, with 80% more medical climate-related alerts compared to the previous year. This surge underscores the critical need for organisations to understand the complex interplay between climate change and health risks.” She added, “Climate change is of course a key environmental concern, but importantly, also a critical factor intensifying risks for individuals and companies. Although until recently, climate change has rarely been seen as the singular driver of conflict or security issues, the impacts of climate change considerably exacerbate existing tensions, vulnerabilities and operational challenges.
