Extreme Heat Exposure and Global Trade Dynamics

Extreme heat exposure has emerged as a critical challenge, particularly for developing economies. Recent studies indicate that countries such as India, China, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Bangladesh face the highest levels of exposure. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the global trade system, which redistributes risks associated with extreme heat.

About Extreme Heat Exposure

Extreme heat exposure refers to the number of hours workers endure temperatures that can lead to heat stress. The recent analysis marks a staggering increase in exposure, from 221.5 billion person-hours in 1995 to 419.0 billion person-hours in 2020. This increase is largely attributed to the dynamics of global trade.

Impact of Trade on Heat Exposure

Trade contributes to global heat exposure. The study reveals that nearly a quarter of the global workforce’s exposure to extreme heat is trade-related. Wealthier nations benefit from lower heat exposure, transferring risks to developing countries that provide labour-intensive goods.

Disparities in Exposure Among Nations

The analysis shows stark disparities in exposure levels. Lower-middle-income and low-income countries account for 53.7% and 18.3% of global exposure, respectively, while contributing only 5.7% and 1% of global labour compensation. This inequity marks the burden placed on developing economies.

Regional Differences in Heat Exposure

Regional variations in heat exposure are pronounced. North America and Europe experience a net transfer of exposure, while South America, Africa, and Asia bear the brunt. For instance, in 2020, Nigeria faced an average exposure of 1186.8 hours per capita, compared to only 28.1 hours in Germany.

Worker Vulnerability and Health Risks

Workers in developing nations often face severe health risks due to extreme heat. In Nigeria, for example, workers experienced heat stress for up to 59.4% of their working hours. Comparable figures for India, China, Indonesia, and Bangladesh were 47.6%, 15.6%, 50.8%, and 48.4%, respectively.

Future Implications

The implications of increased heat exposure are vast. As global temperatures rise, the vulnerability of workers in developing economies will likely intensify. This situation calls for urgent attention to improve working conditions and address the imbalances created by global trade dynamics.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of global trade on climate change and worker health in developing economies.
2. Explain the relationship between economic development and exposure to extreme weather events in various regions.
3. What are the socio-economic consequences of heat stress on labour productivity? Provide suitable examples.
4. With suitable examples, comment on the role of international policies in mitigating the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of global trade on climate change and worker health in developing economies.

1. Global trade redistributes risks, increasing heat exposure in developing countries while wealthier nations benefit from lower exposure.
2. Trade-related exposure accounted for nearly 25% of global workforce heat exposure, denoting inequities in labor conditions.
3. Countries like India and Nigeria face extreme heat exposure for portions of working hours, leading to health risks.
4. Developing economies contribute minimally to global labor compensation despite bearing the brunt of heat exposure.
5. Addressing these issues requires re-evaluating trade practices to ensure fair labor conditions and climate resilience.

2. Explain the relationship between economic development and exposure to extreme weather events in various regions.

1. Developing economies, such as those in Africa and Asia, experience higher exposure to extreme weather events compared to developed nations.
2. Economic development often correlates with infrastructure and resources to mitigate climate impacts, which poorer regions lack.
3. Regions like North America and Europe have lower per capita exposure due to better adaptation strategies and technology.
4. Disparities in economic status lead to unequal vulnerability and resilience against extreme weather events.
5. Investment in climate adaptation is crucial for developing economies to reduce exposure and enhance resilience.

3. What are the socio-economic consequences of heat stress on labour productivity? Provide suitable examples.

1. Heat stress reduces labor productivity, as workers in extreme conditions can only perform at lower efficiency.
2. In Nigeria, workers faced heat stress for 59.4% of their working hours, leading to decreased output and economic losses.
3. Lower-middle-income countries like India and Bangladesh also report high exposure, impacting overall economic growth.
4. Health risks associated with heat stress can lead to increased absenteeism and healthcare costs, further burdening economies.
5. Addressing heat stress through policy interventions can improve productivity and economic stability in vulnerable regions.

4. With suitable examples, comment on the role of international policies in mitigating the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations.

1. International agreements like the Paris Accord aim to reduce global emissions and support vulnerable populations through climate finance.
2. Policies that promote sustainable trade practices can help redistribute risks and protect workers in developing economies.
3. Examples include initiatives that encourage the adoption of green technologies in labor-intensive sectors in countries like India.
4. International organizations can provide resources and expertise to help developing nations build resilience against extreme heat.
5. Strengthening global cooperation and accountability in climate action is essential to safeguard vulnerable populations from climate impacts.