Malte Overgaard Andersen
3.C
IBC Fredericia/ Middelfart
Climate Change's Toll on Workers: A Call for Urgent Action
In recent years, the world has witnessed the devastating toll that climate change is taking on workers,
particularly those employed in outdoor jobs. Extreme heatwaves, intensified by climate change, have
created unbearable work environments, leading to a growing health crisis. The inequality and health
risks associated with these conditions demand immediate action and attention.
Extreme heat conditions brought about by climate change are causing serious health risks to outdoor
workers, resulting in heat-related illnesses and, tragically, even some deaths. A tragic but great example
that illustrates the point is from "The Future of Work" article tells of a 46-year-old man delivering food
by bicycle who succumbed to heatstroke during a peak heatwave in Evia. 1 This illustrates the
devastating consequences of working in extreme heat and underscores the urgent need for protective
measures to prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths. But why do workers continue to endure these
conditions, can’t they simply stop working in such extreme heat, you may ask? No, many workers rely
on their income to support themselves and their families, making it financially difficult to halt work in
such conditions. In regions such as Greece this Summer where outdoor labor dominates, alternative
employment options may be limited. As some outdoor workers themselves have said, "We have no
other way to earn money than to take whatever work there is - whether it's indoors or outdoors. Many
times, we choose between our livelihood and our physical health".2
The impact of climate change extends beyond immediate health risks. Industries heavily reliant on
outdoor labor, such as the tourism sector, face significant threats. Tourism, a vital source of
employment in many countries, is particularly vulnerable to climate change-induced disruptions. 3 The
prevalence of wildfires and extreme heat are dangerous to the livelihoods of those dependent on
tourism, making it clear that better preparedness and adaptation strategies are essential.
While some governments have laws in place to prevent outdoor work during extreme heat, enforcement
remains a challenge, especially in the private sector. A quote from an article on the subject aptly states,
"The government has a law to stop you from working outside when it’s too hot, but everyone wants
1
(Greenwood, 2023)
(Greenwood, 2023)
3
(Greenwood, 2023)
2
Malte Overgaard Andersen
3.C
IBC Fredericia/ Middelfart
money. If you work in the private sector, no one is protected." This underscores the importance of
enforcing existing laws and regulations while also implementing new policies that prioritize the wellbeing of workers, especially in industries prone to heat strokes.
The reason global warming is so rapid is because of our consumption patterns. Every person nowadays
must have the newest phones, computers, and other electronic gadgets. After a new launch by Apple,
for example, a lot of old phones will immediately be thrown out. Studies show that less than a quarter
of all electronic waste is recycled. The rest is dumped in landfills around the US. 4 This culture of
consumption, which encourages frequent device upgrades and disposals, has carbon footprint
implications, directly contributing to climate change. Consumer behavior is a driving force behind the
surge in e-waste, fueled by the desire for the latest technological advancements.
The unbearable heat records, combined with our continued overconsumption, will be devastating for
many countries. Part of the world's economy is tourism, but neither the employees nor the tourists can
sustain being there without getting diseases linked to high-level temperatures. Then the countries will
be under severe economic pressure, as tourism is the primary source of income. Take Greece as an
example.
The interconnectedness of these issues cannot be ignored. E-waste and climate change are two
environmental challenges that demand collective action. By addressing e-waste through better
recycling practices, extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, 5 and corporate responsibility in
managing discarded electronics, we not only mitigate environmental harm but also protect workers
involved in the e-waste industry. Significant initiatives must be taken to hopefully save the countries of
the world from extreme heat.
In conclusion of my essay, climate change’s impact on people who are working outside, and are
dealing with those bad circumstances at their job, should get immediate attention and they will need
some protective measures. At the same time, we must recognize the consumer-driven consequences of
our E-waste culture. Both of these issues highlight the duty we have to protect our environment, planet,
4
5
(SEMUELS, 2019)
(SEMUELS, 2019)
Malte Overgaard Andersen
3.C
IBC Fredericia/ Middelfart
and most importantly the workers - also for the sake of the future generations. A way could be to
integrate bigger recyclers into people’s everyday lives, so they can become a more fundamental part of
the systems. Furthermore, we should focus more on the fact that there are many different activities we
have our duty to solve, and the solution is not to get the newest or best devices. Unfortunately, that’s
the norm of today, and it works against our goals to be environmentally responsible.
Malte Overgaard Andersen
3.C
IBC Fredericia/ Middelfart
Bibliografi
Greenwood, P. (4. August 2023). The Guardian. Hentet 4. September 2023 fra The future of work:
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2023/aug/04/it-was-hell-but-the-owner-said-youhave-to-work-dying-from-heat-in-greece
SEMUELS, A. (23. May 2019). Time. Hentet 2. september 2023 fra The World Has an E-Waste Problem:
https://time.com/5594380/world-electronic-waste-problem/