Post by 17 Triggers

Extreme heat is a growing public health and livelihood challenge in Cambodia, especially Phnom Penh. In 2024, the city recorded temperatures over 39°C, which forced schools to close for children’s health, but otherwise did not slow down the pace of work for vulnerable groups. Informal workers, such as trash collectors, construction workers, and street food vendors could not afford to skip even one day of work due to heat. In fact, there is a perception that because Cambodia is a hot country, complaining about extreme heat, or changing practices because of extreme heat, is a socially unacceptable action. This rapid research with vulnerable groups provided foundational data for GIZ Cambodia to further their exploration of the topic. Understanding extreme heat is critical for the future and managing heat requires multi-sectoral action: health, education, urban planning, social services, and the private sector must come together to act. Thank you to our partner: GIZ Cambodia, Putthy San, Franziska Fuerst, Maren Suchta-Platzmann 17 Triggers team: Chanmonyroth Hun, Imara Roychowdhury, SokSambath Pen #InclusiveDesign #ExtremeHeat #ClimateResilience #UrbanAccessibility #Intersectionality #CitiesForAll