South-east Asia’s Battle Against Rising Temperatures: A Call for Heat Resilience
January 10, 2025
South-east asia is on teh frontlines of a growing crisis: rising temperatures fueled by climate change and rapid urbanisation.The region, already grappling with chronic heat and high humidity, faces escalating threats to health, productivity, and livelihoods. At the recent First global Heat Health Details Network (GHHIN) South-east Asia Heat Health Forum, experts convened to address these challenges and explore solutions to heat-proof the region.
the Heat Problem in South-east Asia
Table of Contents
- Rising Temperatures in Southeast Asia: A Growing Threat to Workers and Communities
- The Heat Crisis: A Threat to Health and Productivity
- Cultural Perceptions of Heat in Southeast Asia
- Tackling the Heat: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach
- Key Takeaways
- A Call to Action
- The Growing Threat of Heat Stress
- Community-Led Initiatives and Awareness Campaigns
- Building Resilience Through Fitness
- The First GHHIN South-east Asia Heat Health Forum
- Key Strategies to Combat Heat Stress
- A Call to Action
- Singapore’s Proactive Measures
- Challenges Across Southeast Asia
- A Regional Call to Action
- Conclusion
Heat in South-east Asia is uniquely intense. With average humidity levels reaching 82% in places like Singapore, the body struggles to cool down as sweat evaporates less efficiently. This not only causes perpetual discomfort but also reduces productivity and increases the risk of workplace accidents. The region’s aging population adds another layer of vulnerability, as the elderly are less able to withstand extreme heat.
The impacts are already being felt across the region:
- Brunei experienced temperatures of at least 35°C for three consecutive days in March 2024.
- Cambodia and Myanmar saw temperatures soar above 40°C in April 2024, accompanied by stifling humidity.
- Laos faced crop failures in May 2024, with coffee and vegetable yields plummeting due to heatwaves.
- Indonesia reported 35,500 dengue fever infections and 290 deaths between January and March 2024, linked to warmer weather.
- Malaysia recorded 45 heat-related illnesses by mid-April 2024, including two fatalities.
- Philippines documented 77 heat-related illnesses and seven deaths in the first four months of 2024.
- Thailand saw 61 heat-related deaths between January and April 2024.
Urban Heat: A Growing Concern
South-east Asia is urbanising rapidly, with over 542 million people expected to live in cities by 2050. This urban growth exacerbates the urban heat island effect,where built-up areas trap heat,making cities hotter than rural regions. Nights are also warming, disrupting sleep and rest for urban dwellers.
The challenge is particularly acute for low-income residents who cannot afford air-conditioning or well-ventilated homes. However, innovative solutions are emerging. In Can Tho city, Vietnam, new developments are incorporating wind corridors, greenery, and energy-efficient windows to promote cooling and ventilation.
Heat at Work: protecting Outdoor Laborers
South-east Asia’s economy relies heavily on outdoor labor, from agriculture to construction. Workers in these sectors are especially vulnerable to heat stress, which can lead to exhaustion, accidents, and even death. Addressing this issue requires better workplace protections, such as shaded rest areas, hydration stations, and adjusted working hours during peak heat.
Conventional and Cultural Practices: Lessons from the Past
Communities in South-east Asia have long relied on traditional practices to cope with heat. From architectural designs that promote natural ventilation to cultural rituals that encourage hydration and rest, these practices offer valuable insights for modern heat resilience strategies.
Key Takeaways
| Issue | Impact | Solution |
|————————–|—————————————————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Urban Heat Island Effect | Cities are hotter than rural areas, disrupting sleep and health.| Incorporate wind corridors, greenery, and energy-efficient designs. |
| Heat at Work | Outdoor laborers face higher risks of heat stress and accidents. | Provide shaded rest areas, hydration, and adjusted working hours. |
| Traditional practices | Cultural practices offer time-tested methods for coping with heat. | Integrate traditional knowledge into modern urban planning and policies. |
A Call to action
As South-east Asia continues to warm, the need for heat resilience has never been more urgent. From urban planning to workplace protections, the region must adopt a multi-faceted approach to safeguard its people and economy. The insights from the GHHIN South-east Asia Heat Health Forum provide a roadmap for action, but the time to act is now.
By leveraging innovative solutions and traditional wisdom, south-east Asia can build a future where communities thrive despite the heat. The question remains: will the region rise to the challenge?
Rising Temperatures in Southeast Asia: A Growing Threat to Workers and Communities
Southeast Asia, a region celebrated for its cultural diversity and economic dynamism, is facing an escalating challenge: rising temperatures. With agriculture contributing approximately 11% of GDP in ASEAN countries in 2020, the impact of extreme heat on outdoor workers, such as farmers, is profound. However, indoor workers, including garment factory employees in Cambodia, are also at risk due to poor ventilation and lack of air-conditioning.
This article delves into the implications of heat stress, the cultural nuances of heat perception, and actionable solutions to mitigate its effects.
The Heat Crisis: A Threat to Health and Productivity
Why It Matters
Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to severe health complications, including kidney and heart damage, heatstroke, and fatigue. For workers in labor-intensive sectors like agriculture, construction, and manufacturing, the risks are even higher.
“Workers are also at risk of exertional heat stress,where the body overheats during physical exertion,” notes a recent report.This phenomenon is particularly perilous during the rainy season when employees may push their limits, unaware of their thermal thresholds.
The economic repercussions are equally concerning. In economies reliant on manual labor, productivity declines as workers struggle to cope with the heat.
Cultural Perceptions of Heat in Southeast Asia
A Diverse Region with Unique Challenges
Southeast Asia, comprising 11 countries, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. However, perceptions of heat vary widely. For some,heat stress is not seen as an immediate threat compared to more tangible hazards like storms or wildfires.
In rural areas, traditional medicine plays a significant role in treating health conditions. “some communities may historically have developed knowledge or resources to withstand the heat,” the report highlights. Yet,as climate change intensifies,these traditional practices may no longer suffice.
Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and young children, frequently enough underestimate their susceptibility to heat stress. Bridging the gap between conventional and traditional medicine could offer innovative solutions, though further research is needed.
Tackling the Heat: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach
What researchers Can Do
- Conduct studies to identify heat strain risks among vulnerable groups, such as seniors and delivery riders.
- Develop affordable and scalable cooling solutions tailored to the region’s unique context.
- Explore how traditional practices, like Chinese medicine treatments (e.g., herbs, acupuncture, and cupping), can complement conventional treatments for heat injuries.
Policymakers’ Role
- Collaborate with the private sector to implement heatwave insurance schemes for workers.
- Integrate cooling solutions into urban planning, such as wind corridors, greenery, and cool paint on building facades.
- Enforce workplace regulations, including rest breaks, cool water access, and heat acclimatisation programs.
- Develop early warning systems to mitigate economic damages caused by heatwaves.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Economic Impact | Agriculture contributes 11% of GDP in ASEAN countries. |
| Health Risks | Heatstroke, kidney damage, and fatigue are common among workers. |
| Cultural Practices | Traditional medicine plays a significant role in rural areas. |
| Solutions | Urban planning, early warning systems, and multi-agency task forces. |
A Call to Action
the fight against rising temperatures requires collective effort. From researchers exploring innovative cooling solutions to policymakers implementing heat-proofing measures, every stakeholder has a role to play.
As Southeast Asia grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and economic growth, addressing heat stress is not just a matter of health—it’s a matter of survival.
What steps can your community take to combat heat stress? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.
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This article is based on insights from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Progress (OECD) and other relevant sources.Singapore takes Bold Steps to Combat Rising Heat Stress as Southeast Asia Faces Climate Challenges
As global temperatures continue to rise, Singapore is leading the charge in addressing the growing threat of heat stress in Southeast Asia. With the region experiencing increasingly extreme weather patterns, the city-state is implementing a multi-faceted approach to protect its citizens and foster community resilience.
The Growing Threat of Heat Stress
Heat stress, a condition where the body cannot cool itself effectively, poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as seniors and young children. According to experts, these demographics are especially susceptible as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature under extreme heat.“People should know about the threats of extreme heat and the risks they face,and whether they are vulnerable to heat stress,” emphasizes a recent report. This awareness is crucial as Southeast Asia grapples with the dual challenges of urbanization and climate change.
Community-Led Initiatives and Awareness Campaigns
Singapore is not just relying on government action but is also encouraging ground-up efforts to combat heat stress.As a notable example, the Indonesian Red Cross Society has been organizing events and leveraging social media to raise awareness about heat-related risks in cities like Surabaya and medan.
“Within communities and groups, people should watch out for the vulnerable,” the report adds. This community-driven approach ensures that those most at risk receive the support they need.
Building Resilience Through Fitness
One surprising yet effective way to combat heat stress is through regular aerobic exercise. Activities like running and cardio workouts can improve thermal tolerance, helping individuals better withstand high temperatures.
“Engaging in aerobic exercises like running and cardio workouts will help improve one’s thermal tolerance,” the report notes. This simple yet impactful strategy underscores the importance of personal health in building resilience against climate challenges.
The First GHHIN South-east Asia Heat Health Forum
singapore is set to host the First GHHIN South-east Asia Heat Health Forum from January 7 to 10, 2025. This landmark event, with The Straits Times as its media partner, will bring together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss innovative solutions to heat stress.The forum aims to foster collaboration across the region, sharing best practices and strategies to mitigate the health impacts of rising temperatures.
Key Strategies to Combat Heat Stress
| Strategy | Description |
|———————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Public Awareness | Educate individuals about heat stress risks and vulnerability. |
| Community Efforts | Encourage ground-up initiatives to support vulnerable groups. |
| Fitness and Health | Promote aerobic exercises to improve thermal tolerance. |
| Regional Collaboration | Host forums like the GHHIN Heat Health Forum to share best practices. |
A Call to Action
As Singapore and its neighbors face the escalating impacts of climate change, the need for collective action has never been more urgent. By raising awareness, fostering community resilience, and promoting healthy lifestyles, the region can better withstand the challenges of extreme heat.
Stay informed about the latest developments in climate resilience by following The straits Times’ coverage of the GHHIN South-east Asia Heat Health forum. Together, we can build a cooler, safer future for all.
Allenges of urbanization and climate change.
Singapore’s Proactive Measures
Singapore has emerged as a regional leader in combating heat stress through innovative urban planning and community engagement. Key initiatives include:
- urban greenery and Cool Roofs: The city-state has prioritized green spaces and cool roofs too reduce urban heat island effects. by incorporating vegetation and reflective materials, Singapore aims to lower ambient temperatures in densely populated areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government has launched campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of heat stress and promote preventive measures, such as staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Heat-Resilient Infrastructure: Singapore is investing in heat-resilient infrastructure, including shaded walkways, cooling centers, and improved ventilation in public transportation systems.
Challenges Across Southeast Asia
While Singapore’s efforts are commendable, the broader Southeast Asian region faces unique challenges. Countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, which rely heavily on agriculture and labor-intensive industries, are particularly vulnerable. Outdoor workers, such as farmers and construction laborers, are at high risk of heat-related illnesses, while indoor workers in poorly ventilated factories also face significant threats.
A Regional Call to Action
To address these challenges, Southeast Asia must adopt a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach:
- Policy Interventions: Governments should enforce workplace regulations, such as mandatory rest breaks, access to cool water, and heat acclimatization programs.
- Community engagement: Local communities can play a vital role by leveraging traditional knowledge and practices to mitigate heat stress. As an example,traditional cooling methods,such as herbal remedies and natural ventilation techniques,can complement modern solutions.
- Research and Innovation: researchers must focus on developing affordable and scalable cooling technologies tailored to the region’s needs. Collaborative efforts between governments, academia, and the private sector can accelerate progress.
Conclusion
As Southeast Asia confronts the escalating threat of heat stress,Singapore’s proactive measures offer a blueprint for regional action. However, the fight against rising temperatures requires collective effort.By combining innovative solutions with traditional wisdom, the region can build a resilient future where communities thrive despite the heat. The question remains: Will southeast Asia rise to the challenge?
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This article highlights the urgent need for action against heat stress in Southeast Asia, drawing on insights from Singapore’s initiatives and regional challenges.
