On World Environment Day 2026, Bangladesh Labour Foundation (BLF), together with NAJTB and the SMEP Program, organized a roundtable discussion on the growing impacts of climate change on workers and workplaces in Bangladesh.
Addressing Climate Risks for Workers
The roundtable focused on the increasing challenges faced by workers due to rising temperatures, heatwaves, and unsafe working conditions. Speakers highlighted that workers in factories, construction, transport, and outdoor sectors are among the most affected, facing serious health risks and reduced productivity due to climate-related hazards.
Key Discussions:
- Bangladesh loses nearly 250 million working hours annually due to heat stress, affecting workers’ health and productivity
- Workers are increasingly exposed to dehydration, heatstroke, fainting, and other heat-related health risks
- Heat-related productivity losses are creating significant economic impacts, estimated at USD 1.78 billion annually
- Ensuring workplace heat protection measures and stronger occupational safety standards is essential
- Climate-sensitive social protection, renewable energy investment, and worker-centred climate policies are needed for a just transition
Participants emphasized that climate justice cannot be achieved without safeguarding workers’ rights, health, safety, and dignity.