The Intelligence from The Economist cover image

The Intelligence from The Economist

Degree programme: stopping heat deaths

Jul 3, 2024
Rachel Dobbs, Climate correspondent for The Economist, delves into the harrowing impacts of heatwaves, especially on vulnerable populations like the poor and elderly. She stresses the urgent need for government intervention and innovative solutions like improved urban design to combat these rising temperatures. The conversation also touches on shifting international student demographics, with Indian scholars filling the gap left by declining Chinese enrollments. Lastly, a humorous take on full-body deodorant reveals cultural anxieties surrounding personal hygiene.
22:13

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Vulnerability to heatwaves highlights social inequalities, impacting the marginalized populations disproportionately.
  • Systemic interventions targeting at-risk groups and implementing policy measures can effectively reduce heatwave risks and casualties.

Deep dives

Effects of Heatwaves and Climate Change

Heatwaves, exacerbated by climate change, pose serious risks due to inadequate responses by officials. Vulnerability to extreme heat is linked to inequality, affecting older and poorer populations significantly. Cities show disparity in temperature impact between wealthier and poorer neighborhoods, exacerbating the risk for marginalized communities.

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