Comprehensive analysis spans 10 industry sectors responding to climate-driven health and nutrition challenges
May 15, 2025 (Washington, DC) – A new report released by Forecasting Healthy Futures calls for stronger private sector leadership to address the growing health and nutrition risks posed by climate change. Titled “Private sector engagement on the impacts of climate change on health and nutrition,” the report presents a cross-sectoral analysis of private sector responses to climate-driven health and nutrition challenges. It explores how multinational corporations (MNCs) are getting impacted by and are responding across their operations, workforces, consumers, and the communities in which they operate.
While the analysis reveals many sector-specific impacts, the underlying risks are shared across industries. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, the spread of infectious diseases, environmental degradation, and growing mental health challenges are increasingly contributing to worker illness, absenteeism, and declining productivity. Consumers are facing disrupted supply chains, leading to increased food and water insecurity and changing consumption patterns. Meanwhile, communities are grappling with weakened infrastructure, displacement, and economic instability – compounding health and social vulnerabilities and impacted business continuity.
In response, corporate response is gaining momentum. MNCs are increasingly adopting adaptation strategies that address both occupational risks and broader public health threats. The report outlines emerging strategies across ten sectors—from climate-resilient product innovations and workplace health programs to community investments and public policy engagement. For example, agriculture firms are promoting sustainable farming and farmer well-being, consumer goods companies are building resilient value chains, and energy and infrastructure firms are reinforcing assets and safeguarding communities. Meanwhile, healthcare and life sciences companies are enhancing preparedness for climate-sensitive diseases, and technology and financial services firms are leveraging data and financial tools to address evolving climate risks.
At the same time, the report emphasizes the importance of addressing both immediate threats—like heat stress and extreme weather—and broader, often less visible health impacts, particularly among vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries. Expanding this focus can help ensure long-term community well-being and business resilience.
Businesses are uniquely positioned to integrate adaptation measures that address both environmental and health vulnerabilities. The report identifies four critical enablers for scaling private sector impact: strategic integration, measurable accountability, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative financing. Internally, companies are encouraged to gradually integrate climate and health resilience into core planning and operations, supported by practical measurement frameworks and transparent reporting. Externally, partnerships across governments, industries, investors, and civil society are needed to align standards, pool resources, and unlock new financing mechanisms.
Ultimately, the report highlights the opportunity for private sector leadership to accelerate climate adaptation efforts that protect health and nutrition around the world.
“Climate change is fundamentally altering the global health and nutrition landscape,” said Kelly Willis, who leads Forecasting Healthy Futures. “To lead in this space, we must champion bold leadership, foster partnerships, and invest in solutions that address escalating climate-driven health threats. “This report encourages private sector leaders to consider more holistic and integrated strategies in addressing the interconnected challenges of climate and health.”
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About Forecasting Healthy Futures
Forecasting Healthy Futures is a global coalition of leading organizations committed to mobilizing the political will, financial resources, and innovative solutions needed to protect global health gains from the threats posed by climate change. Visit us at www.forecastinghealthyfutures.org.
