Commentary: Southeast Asia’s new imperative to confront brutal heat

Commentary: Southeast Asia’s new imperative to confront brutal heat

SUPPLIES OF FOOD AND Ocean FROM Bushfires ARE PROTECTED

Heatwaves pose the greatest immediate danger because of how they affect food and water protection. In times of shortage, waters must be stored, distributed, and conserved.

This may entail the Singaporean practices of water filtration, therapy of used water, and rainwater harvesting and collection.

Plants and the water products they require suffer as a result of heatwaves. While producers need to be supported in switching to climate-resistant grain varieties, new agricultural practices that are not water-intensive, like drip water, may be promoted. To reduce not only air pollutants but likewise carbon pollution, laws prohibiting slash and burn crops must be strictly enforced.

Reducing waste can even help with food safety. Every year, up to one-tenth of the world’s GHG emissions — 1.3 billion tonnes — of food produced worldwide is lost or wasted. In Thailand, plantain costs can reach 50 % between the time of harvest and after harvest. In India, only 10 % of perishable foods has warm storage, which results in a 30 % loss of fruits and vegetables.

WORKING IN Continuous Heating

More outdoor workers in South and Southeast Asia will have to work in temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius as a result of more regular wildfires. Government assistance to safeguard employees’ wellness is essential.