By clicking “Accept”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

The Next Urgent Health Challenge: Building a Climate-Resilient Workforce

Understanding the Threat
The World Health Organization has said that our climate “is the single biggest health threat” facing humanity, jeopardizing the health of workers and reducing productivity. In fact, almost half of the U.S. workforce – 65 million people – face climate-related health risks, including dangerous air quality and extreme heat.

Engaging Leaders
According to Mercer’s Inside Employees’ Minds study, nearly a fifth of employees say climate change has already impacted their health or the health of a family member, and another 44% are concerned about the potential impact on their health and safety. Yet only 17% of business leaders feel prepared to address this issue.

Taking Action
In partnership with a diverse group of experts from public health, climate, labor and academia, we are calling on business leaders to come together to form the National Commission on Climate and Workforce Health. Our mission is to help organizations mitigate the impact of this health crisis on their workforces through new approaches to better assess risk and adapt their operations.
JOIN US

The implications for inaction are significant:

Increased Costs

Climate-related health impacts cost businesses more than $800B annually.
Source: NRDC

Lost Productivity

Extreme heat (temperatures above 100 degrees) can reduce worker productivity 70%.

Growing Anxiety

A majority of Americans (64%) say they are at least “somewhat worried” about our climate with nearly half thinking they will be harmed (44%) or that their family will be harmed (48%).

The implications for inaction are significant:

Increased Costs

Climate-related health impacts cost businesses more than $800B annually.
Source: NRDC

Lost Productivity

Extreme heat (temperatures above 100 degrees) can reduce worker productivity 70%.

Growing Anxiety

A majority of Americans (64%) say they are at least “somewhat worried” about our climate with nearly half thinking they will be harmed (44%) or that their family will be harmed (48%).

Launching in 2024, the Commission will provide resources and recommendations to employers to:

Develop risk mitigation and adaptation strategies
Enable equitable health outcomes for the organization and community
Reduce long-term costs
Build workforce and operational resilience