Ecowatch: This is not just extreme weather – it’s a public health emergency
This image was generated by AI and may not depict real events.
South-East Asia is experiencing intensifying heat conditions, leading to a public health emergency with increased mortality rates and chronic diseases. Malaysia is urged to embed heat governance into its policies and legislation, following Singapore's example in treating heat as a national security and economic strategy issue.
South-East Asia is experiencing permanent and intensifying heat conditions. This is leading to a public health emergency, with increased mortality rates and chronic diseases. Research shows that each 1°C rise in mean temperature is associated with a 2% to 5% increase in excess mortality. Heat-attributable deaths account for nearly 1% of all mortality in some cities. The elderly and outdoor workers are disproportionately affected. Singapore has elevated heat to a matter of national security and invested in cool corridors, green roofs, and urban heat island mitigation. Malaysia is urged to follow suit and embed heat governance into its policies and legislation.
This content was automatically generated and/or translated by AI. It may contain inaccuracies. Please refer to the original sources for verification.