PROTECTING FOOD AND WATER SUPPLIES FROM HEATWAVES
The most proximate threat from heatwaves lies in their impact on water and food security. Water needs to be stored, distributed and conserved in lean times.
This would mean rainwater harvesting and collection; treatment of used water; and seawater desalination, which have been practised in Singapore.
Heatwaves take a toll on crops and the water supplies they need. New agricultural practices that are not water-intensive, like drip irrigation, must be promoted, while farmers need to be supported in switching to climate-resistant crop varieties. Laws against slash and burn agriculture must be effectively enforced, to cut not only air pollution but also carbon emissions.
Food security can also be aided by reining in wastage. One-third of all food produced worldwide – or 1.3 billion tonnes – is lost or wasted every year, contributing up to one-tenth of global GHG emissions. Up to 50 per cent of cassava losses in Thailand occur during the harvest and post-harvest. Only 10 per cent of perishable food in India have cold storage, causing a 30 per cent loss of fruits and vegetables.
WORKING UNDER RELENTLESS HEAT
With more frequent heatwaves, more outdoor workers across South and Southeast Asia, will have to toil under daily temperatures past 40 degrees Celsius. Government support to protect workers’ health is vital.
Source: CNA
