The labour force in a changing climate: Research and policy needs

Abstract

Labour is one of the sectors most affected by heat stress. Labour supply (number working hours) and labour productivity (output during these hours) are all affected by warming. A growing body of literature finds that heat affects labour in multiple ways, with predominantly negative impacts on economic growth and workers' health, that are heterogeneous across regions and sectors. However, there are significant gaps in the literature, making it hard to inform effective policy, including labour protection regulations. With improved understanding of the complex links between labour, health, and output, policies can be better designed to protect workers, especially vulnerable groups of workers, such as outdoor workers, and enhance economic output and economic growth [1, 2].