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The Daily
Lives, Livelihoods, and the High Cost of Heat
Aug 10, 2023
Coral Davenport and Dana Smith discuss the economic impact of extreme heat on workers and the lack of federal regulations in the US. They emphasize the urgent need for action to address rising temperatures and the consequences of inaction. The podcast also explores the making of chocolate and its connection to heat, as well as the devastating impact of a dangerous heat wave on millions of Americans. The effects of extreme heat on the human body are examined, highlighting the need to adapt to hotter temperatures and suggesting coping strategies.
35:24
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Quick takeaways
- Extreme heat is causing significant economic losses, with a projected cost of $500 billion per year by the middle of the century.
- Extreme heat poses serious health risks to workers, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, requiring immediate cooling measures to prevent organ failure and save lives.
Deep dives
The Economic Cost of Extreme Heat on Indoor Workers
Extreme heat is not only affecting outdoor workers but also having a significant impact on indoor workers in the United States. The economic cost of heat is causing a loss of about two and a half billion work hours per year, translating to around $100 billion in economic loss annually. This cost is projected to increase to $500 billion per year by the middle of the century. Heat reduces worker productivity, with a 25% drop in productivity at 90 degrees and a 70% drop at temperatures above 100 degrees. Indoor workers in non-air-conditioned factories are particularly affected, as factories were built in a time when extreme heat was not as common. The economic burden falls on employers who face reduced hours, higher workers' compensation costs, and potentially lower worker retention rates.
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