Survey reveals increasing awareness about climate-related risks

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.

In the Middle East, 62% of respondents, when reflecting on the past 12-month experience, perceive an increase in risks related to health, wellbeing, and security. Meanwhile, 20% maintain that these risks have stayed constant, with a further 18% indicating a decrease.

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.

As many as 48% of respondents reported that climate change anxiety is an issue that they have encountered among their workforces, while 42% think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to / mitigate disruptions caused by climate activism. Over 40% of respondents think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to / mitigate environmental threats.