Intense heatwaves claim lives, victims potentially spared from fate if not for global warming

In the face of rising global temperatures, governments worldwide are taking steps to reinforce critical infrastructure, such as power plants, hospitals, and schools, against the effects of heatwaves. This proactive measure is essential as two studies suggest that climate change has increased the probability of deadly heatwaves, particularly in the Mediterranean region, by a staggering 100 times in the coming years.

These findings underscore the growing threat of extreme heat due to climate change. The 2024 Emissions Gap Report by UNEP warns that the world is on track to overshoot 2.6°C to 3.1°C this century, a scenario that would result in heatwaves becoming much more intense and frequent.

One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the impact on vulnerable populations. Millions of people around the world cannot afford to buy and operate air conditioners, making them inaccessible for cooling during heatwaves. Moreover, air conditioners are voracious consumers of electricity, which in almost all places is still generated by the burning of fossil fuels, fueling climate change.

However, there is hope. Passive cooling strategies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1.1 gigatons by 2050, equivalent to removing almost 290 million cars from the road. These strategies include tree planting, urban planning to dissipate heat, improving thermal insulation of houses, and promoting natural ventilation.

In addition, countries can strengthen healthcare systems and implement action plans to mitigate extreme heat health risks. They can also expand sustainable cooling and refrigeration programs, focusing on the use of eco-friendly alternatives to hydrofluorocarbons, synthetic gases that are powerful climate contaminants.

Governments also have a role to play in protecting their workforce from high temperatures, especially those working outdoors. Developing and enforcing rules to ensure safe working conditions in extreme heat is crucial.

The importance of sustainable economic transformation in the face of climate change is a topic of discussion among experts like Martin Krause, who is involved in these discussions in Germany. However, more information is needed to clarify his organizational affiliation and exact role.

The consequences of inaction are clear. In July 2025, heatwaves in Europe resulted in the death of more than 2,300 people in 12 countries, according to a study by Imperial College London. This tragic event underscores the urgent need for action to combat the growing threat of extreme heat due to climate change.

Without significant changes, by 2050, 10 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions will come from cooling equipment. This underscores the need for the refrigeration industry to be greened to make conditions habitable for billions of people worldwide. Even if warming is stopped, this transformation is necessary to ensure a sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, the threat of extreme heat due to climate change is real and urgent. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to implement sustainable solutions, from reinforcing critical infrastructure to promoting passive cooling strategies and expanding sustainable cooling and refrigeration programs. The future of our planet depends on it.