Protecting vulnerable women workers from extreme heat
BY BLUE MARBLE MICRO
REGION
Asia
INDUSTRY
Public sector
PARTNERS
NGO
CATEGORY
Modeling, Covering
SERVICE
Insurance
RISK
Extreme Heat
STRUCTURE
Micro
IMPACT
Income stability, health security
Challenge
Women working in the informal economy are among the most exposed to the escalating risks of extreme heat. With livelihoods that often require long hours outdoors in markets, construction sites, or agricultural fields, they face constant exposure to rising temperatures without adequate shelter or protective infrastructure. The impact of prolonged heat stress increases the risk of dehydration, heatstroke, and chronic illnesses, while also reducing productivity and income opportunities. These women often make difficult choices between protecting their health and sustaining their livelihoods during heat waves. The increasing impact of a changing climate makes these vulnerabilities more acute, while placing both wellbeing and long-term economic stability at risk.
Solution
Recognizing these risks, Blue Marble, along with our partners, pioneered an innovative approach that blends financial protection with practical support. Together, we launched the world’s first Extreme Heat Income Replacement microinsurance, designed specifically for women in the informal economy. The product provides automatic payouts whenever temperatures reach dangerous levels, giving women the freedom to prioritize their health without losing vital income. Alongside this, the program introduced impactful resilience tools such as shade tents, coolers, solar lights as well as training to raise awareness of heat risks.
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