Building Economic Resilience to the Health Impacts of Climate Change 2025

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Foreword The impact of climate change on global health presents an urgent and complex challenge. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events and environmental degradation are not just environmental issues – they directly threaten human health, business operations and global economic stability. The heaviest burdens will fall on communities with limited infrastructure, healthcare access and emergency preparedness – particularly in developing countries, which currently account for 90% of deaths from weather-, climate- and water-related hazards.1 From the increasing prevalence of heat-related illnesses, the spread of mosquito-borne disease and the rise of food insecurity linked to crop failure, climate-induced health risks, hereinafter referred to as climate-health risks, are accelerating, and will have profound implications for supply chains, workforce productivity and financial markets if significant action isn’t taken. This report provides a detailed analysis of the risks and opportunities facing four critical economic sectors: food and agriculture, the built environment, health and healthcare, and insurance. These industries sit at the core of the nexus of climate change and public health. Strengthening food systems, rethinking urban infrastructure, improving healthcare responses and reshaping insurance models are essential steps towards mitigating risks and building resilience. Companies that fail to adapt will face increasing operational disruption, workforce vulnerabilities and financial liabilities, while those that build resilience will unlock opportunities for innovation, competitive advantage and long- term growth. The private sector plays a pivotal role. As the largest employer and controller of capital and supply chains, it is uniquely positioned to set new industry standards and ensure workforce health amid increasing climate change. The cost of inaction is rising. Bold, systemic action, however, can protect communities and future proof operations. The World Economic Forum, in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), recognizes that addressing these challenges requires cross-sector collaboration, forward-thinking leadership and decisive action. This report serves as an initial view of how businesses can accelerate solutions that create a healthier, more resilient and more prosperous global economy. Now is the time to lead through concrete investments and scalable solutions that protect people, businesses and the planet.Elia Tziambazis Managing Director and Partner, Boston Consulting GroupEric White Head, Climate Adaptation, World Economic Forum Building Economic Resilience to the Health Impacts of Climate Change September 2025 3 Building Economic Resilience to the Health Impacts of Climate Change
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