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Heatwave in Australia Raises Concerns About Pests, Diseases, and Food Prices

Australia's extended hot weather, while pleasant for outdoor activities, comes with a concerning downside: an increased risk of pests and diseases. This warning comes from industry professionals within the Actuaries Institute, an advisory body for the insurance and banking sectors.


Beyond Human Health: Threats to Crops and Forests

The rising temperatures aren't just a threat to human health. Experts warn of potential harm to crops, which could drive up food prices even further. Additionally, forests may face increased pressure from infestations of tree-eating beetles.

Mosquitoes, Fungus, and Beetles: A Triple Threat

These concerns echo earlier warnings from mosquito experts and fungus scientists who spoke to Yahoo News. Their insights highlighted the potential for increased mosquito-borne illnesses and fungal outbreaks.


The Australian Actuaries Climate Index (AACI): A Call to Action

The Actuaries Institute's recently published AACI highlights the urgency of addressing climate change. This index analyzes the current impacts of climate change and societies' efforts towards decarbonization.


Insurance and Banking Sectors Sound the Alarm

AACI lead author Rade Musulin emphasizes the "very concerned" stance of the insurance and banking sectors regarding climate change. The report identifies rising temperatures, particularly in the northeast, between December 2023 and February 2024, as a key indicator.


Climate Change: A Societal Transformation

Musulin compares the climate crisis to major historical upheavals, stating: "We're undergoing a change... that's going to affect every part of our economy, society, where we live, the way we live, how we build houses, how we get around."


A Call for Collaboration

Musulin emphasizes the importance of addressing climate change for various stakeholders – "the public, policy makers, the insurance industry, the banks." He stresses that climate change will impact everyone, regardless of political views.



Source. Yahoo News

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