Page 160 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2024

3/1/24, 3:07 PM Climate Change Risks Exposed: International SOS Data Highlights Urgent Need for Preparedness, Sharing Key Advice for Busines…
Dr Marie-Louise Van Eck, thinks that organisations should take heed from the losses that can be incurred
by extreme weather events, investing in climate preparedness can help ensure a business weathers a storm.

“Climate change is of course a key environmental concern, but importantly, also a critical factor

intensifying risks for individuals and companies. Although until recently, climate change has rarely been
seen as the singular driver of conflict or security issues, the impacts of climate change considerably

exacerbate existing tensions, vulnerabilities and operational challenges.

The cascading impacts of climate change can be the spark that ignites civil unrest, violence and security

issues at high level, as well as amplifies existing political and socio-economic insecurities.

“It is more important than ever for organisations monitor these events, prioritise climate resilience and

incorporate proactive measures into their operational frameworks. This year, the International SOS Risk
Map 2024 includes a layer which outlines climate change risks, an important tool for strategic planning.

This provides quantified estimates of the impacts of climate change on the future risk of humanitarian
crises and disasters. This risk index is intended to inform policy choices across climate mitigation and

adaptation, disaster risk reduction, sustainable development and humanitarian assistance for greater

resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change.”

Top Five Practical Measures for Organisations to Mitigate Climate Change Risks and Safeguard

their Workforce in 2024:

1. Develop a comprehensive climate risk management plan: strategically map climate change impacts on operations to

inform mitigation strategies and investments effectively.
2. Engage employees across the organisation: foster collaboration among HR, risk managers, and the C-suite to harness

diverse expertise in combating climate-related risks.

3. Enhance security protocols and prioritise medical preparedness: establish a system to identify, assess, and control
health and security risks related to climate change. Understand the capacity of local healthcare facilities and ensure access

to medical care during disruptions.

4. Provide workforce with adequate emotional support solutions: implement programmes to address the mental health
impacts of climate change on employees, such as anxiety, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

5. Leverage external expertise and data: harness the insights and support of third-party experts to conduct a climate

vulnerability risk assessment and learn best practice to navigate the complexities of climate risk management effectively.

As businesses navigate the evolving landscape shaped by climate change, International SOS remains

committed to providing essential guidance and support to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees

worldwide.

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