3.5 Nature-based solutions India was the first South Asian country to create a heat action plan after an extreme heatwave in Ahmedabad in 2010 resulted in a 43% increase in mortality.54 The plan includes a system to alert residents when dangerous heatwaves are expected and provide cooling centres. It also educates healthcare workers about how to recognize and treat heat-related illnesses. A study of the impact of this programme has shown it saves around 1,190 lives per year.55This heat action plan was complemented by a statewide policy to paint or tile roofs in white to reflect sunlight and help cool buildings.56 Heatstroke wards were also set up in the state’s major hospitals,57 while a workshop run by India’s National Disaster Management Authority helped local officials prepare for extreme heat.58 To develop effective heat action plans, insurers worked more closely with policy-makers and government officials. Together, they used the industry’s leading risk analytics, predictive tools and climate data to inform more heat action plans and direct capital towards high-impact adaptation interventions. CASE STUDY 8 Heat action plans are building community resilience in India Other aspects of heat action plans that have proven successful in other cities around the world include worker protection during heatwaves (longer breaks during peak heat hours and mandated air-conditioned rest areas with water provided), communication campaigns for vulnerable individuals, naming and ranking heatwaves, and the appointment of a chief heat officer. A growing body of scientific and economic research has been directed to assessing the efficacy of nature- based solutions (NBS) to address extreme heat. A collection of infrastructure investments – including tree canopies, cool and green roofs, and cool surfaces – can significantly reduce ambient temperatures, complementing more immediate response efforts such as public cooling centres and mass communication efforts. According to a 2022 Kaiser Permenante research article, researchers are increasingly able to measure these interventions’ temperature, public health and economic benefits, particularly for vulnerable populations exposed to extreme heat.59World Economic Forum research shows that NBS for climate resilience are 50% more cost-effective than traditional grey infrastructure. NBS also provide 28% more added value by boosting productivity and delivering positive outcomes like reducing emissions from buildings, enhancing climate resilience, capturing land value and creating jobs.60 Furthermore, NBS play a crucial role in addressing biodiversity loss, restoring natural habitats and building community resilience by improving the health and socioeconomic conditions of climate-risk-prone communities. Despite these proven benefits, NBS receive less than 0.3% of current urban infrastructure funding.61 Extreme heat is accelerating, with far-reaching impacts on workers, communities, and economies. With essential heat knowledge and solutions, every industry can protect the health and safety of workers, minimize productivity losses, and ensure the resilience of supply chains and critical infrastructure. By addressing these risks, businesses can safeguard their operations and the communities they rely on, building stability and resilience in an increasingly hot world Kathy Baughman McLeod, Chief Executive Officer, Climate Resilience for All4. Heat-smart infrastructure: Interconnected, resilient infrastructure enables communities to survive and thrive. 5. Heatwave ready: Clear governance arrangements, funding and guidance support effective heatwave management, while communities and organizations are empowered to build resilience, reduce risks and manage emergencies. 6. Heat-smart research: Researchers and practitioners work collaboratively to deliver heat- resilient solutions. Insuring Against Extreme Heat: Navigating Risks in a Warming World 18

Insuring Against Extreme Heat Navigating Risks in a Warming World 2025