Climate change, health and outdoor workers in urban Vietnam: linking vulnerability, extreme weather and policy

Precarious outdoor workers in urban megacities, especially in the global South, are among the most exposed to climate change impacts. In Vietnam, where rapid urbanisation and a large informal workforce shape the landscape, outdoor workers face heightened health risks due to extreme weather conditions. These conditions are worsening with climate change, the risks are underexplored, and the policies to address these risks are still in early development.

This research, funded by the Wellcome Trust, seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps by exploring the health vulnerabilities and climate-related risks faced by outdoor workers in urban Vietnam. Conducted in collaboration with multiple local partners — including Vietnam Medical Association, Social Life Research Institute, Institute for Development & Community Health LIGHT and local worker communities — the research will produce new evidence-based insights to inform policy solutions on the climate change-induced health risks faced by vulnerable outdoor workers in urban contexts. These findings will help policymakers devise interventions that align with the realities of outdoor workers' lives and working conditions.

To launch the project, we are hosting a one-day event that will bring together key stakeholders, including government officials, academics, experts, practitioners, civil society, and funders. The event will showcase some preliminary findings, highlight the project's significance, and facilitate in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities associated with addressing climate change-related health risks in the global South.