India, 29th February 2024 – International SOS, the world’s leading health and security services company, today highlights insight 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.
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; what will the impact be in 2024:
Commenting on the medical outlook, Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director – Indian Subcontinent cautions, “We are witnessing an increased severity of extreme weather events like storms, wildfires, and cloudbursts in the past years. Worsening air quality and the emergence of new diseases are concerning trends. The progressive worsening of heat waves has raised an alarm that we may approach the human limits of survivability by mid-century. While the physical impact of climate change on vulnerable populations is obvious, the not-so-visible damage that any climate event can cause to mental health is far more serious and will affect more people across all age groups. While organisations have been trying to reduce the impact of their actions on the environment, it has now become crucial for them to protect their people from the health and wellbeing consequences of climate change.”
“At International SOS, we saw a significant increase in the number of climate-related alerts we issued last year. Throughout January – November 2023, we saw a fourfold increase in climate related alerts issued to our clients, with80% 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.”
Udit Mehta, Executive Vice President and Director of Operations for International SOSthinks that organisations should take heed from the losses that can be incurred by extreme weather events, investingin climate preparedness can help ensure a business weathers a storm. “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. The cascading impacts of climate change can be the spark that ignites civil unrest, violence and security issues at high level, as well asamplifies existing political and socio–economic insecurities.
“It is more important than ever for organisations monitor these events, prioritise climate resilience and incorporate proactive measures into their operational frameworks. This year, the International SOS Risk Map 2024 includes a layer which outlines climate change risks, an important tool for strategic planning. This provides quantified estimates of the impacts of climate change on the future risk of humanitarian crises and disasters. This risk index is intended to inform policy choices across climate mitigation and adaptation, disaster risk reduction, sustainable development and humanitarian assistance for greater resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change.”
Top Five Practical Measures for Organisations toMitigate Climate Change Risks and Safeguard their Workforce in 2024:
As businesses navigate the evolving landscape shaped by climate change, International SOS remains committed to providing essential guidance and support to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees worldwide.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Kanika Tiwari Kanika.Tiwari@internationalsos.com
Firdos Arjani | +91 99200 63777 | firdos@3mmediaworks.com
About the International SOS Group of Companies
International SOS specialises in safeguarding lives and protecting your global workforce from health and security risks. Wherever you are, we deliver personalised health, security risk management, and well-being solutions to drive your growth and productivity. In the face of extreme weather, an epidemic, or a security incident, we provide an immediate response, offering peace of mind. Our cutting-edge technology and expertise in medical and security matters focus on prevention, providing real-time, actionable insights and ensuring quality delivery on the ground. We play a crucial role in protecting your people, your organisation’s reputation, and supporting your compliance reporting needs. Collaborating with us allows organisations to fulfill their Duty of Care responsibilities while enhancing business resilience, continuity, and sustainability.
Established in 1985, International SOS, with headquarters in London and Singapore, is the trusted partner of over 9,000 organisations, including a majority of the Fortune 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions, and NGOs. A team of 13,000 multicultural medical, security, and logistics experts is ready to provide support and assistance from over 1,200 locations in 90 countries, ensuring round-the-clock service, 365 days a year.
To protect your workforce, we are at your fingertips: www.internationalsos.com
