Foreword from Wellcome

And this is a major problem for business. Failure to reduce emissions to slow future global heating, while adapting to the growing impact of climate change, is threatening business operations around the world. A recent World Health Organization and World Meteorological Organization report estimated that worker productivity drops by 2–3% for every degree above 20°C, and that as temperatures rise, employees are exposed to multiple health risks including heatstroke, dehydration, kidney dysfunction, and neurological disorders, all of which hinder long-term health and economic security.

There is however a window of opportunity for boardrooms to implement known solutions that protect their business, workforce and customers. And increasingly, we know the solutions – local, regional and global policies that work to protect people and the climate. We understand the health and economic benefits of climate action as well as the human and business costs of inaction. We can no longer delay. We must adapt to the climate already here and rapidly move to clean energy systems that give businesses – and humanity – the best chance to thrive in the future.

At Wellcome, we fund science that supports decision-makers to understand the impact of climate change on health, and to implement evidence-based solutions. Our mission is to achieve better health outcomes for everyone and to-date we have invested nearly £500m in new knowledge and evidence generation around the world.

Together, we need the courage and conviction to put people’s health at the heart of climate action. To act now is to prioritise a healthy workforce and an environment in which employees and businesses can flourish: a sustainable, resilient and healthy future for business with a positive connection to customers and communities alike for generations to come.

We’re delighted to partner with Chapter Zero to support board directors navigate the climate and health challenges ahead, mitigate risks and deliver on their board responsibilities to act in the long-term interests of their business. Acting with urgency on climate change and its impact on health just makes good business sense.