Last year closed as the hottest year on record, and 2025 began with an outbreak of wildfires across Los Angeles. These crises have called attention to how extreme weather threatens businesses, workforce health, productivity, and community resilience.

In a statement, National Commission on Climate and Workforce Health Co-Chairs Dr. Bill Frist and Susan Potter urged businesses to act:

“Only a few weeks into the new year, the devastating fires across California and Arizona underscore the impact extreme weather can have on our businesses, workforce health, productivity, and community resilience. With unprecedented heat records in 2024, now is the critical moment for the business community to lean in and collaborate with experts to develop strategies to protect workers as we adapt to these growing challenges.”

Our Commissioners have been at the forefront of the conversation, sharing their expertise with CNN, Forbes, USA Today, HR Brew, and other media outlets. We are proud of their commitment to advancing workforce resilience and solutions to help protect human health in our changing climate. Here's a roundup of their media appearances:

The Changing Climate Is A Health Crisis: A Call To Action For Human Well-Being (Forbes)

Former Sen. Frist draws on his policy and medical expertise to highlight the urgency of addressing the link between the public health crisis and our changing climate.

Far From the Fires, the Deadly Risks of Smoke Are Intensifying (New York Times)

In the wake of the 2025 Los Angeles fires, Dr. Lisa Patel, Executive Director at the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health, discusses the health risks following wildfires.

Air quality alerts blanket Southern California. Here's what to do if you're affected (CNN)

Dr. Patel discusses the health implications of smoke toxins for sensitive populations and measures one can take to protect themselves and children. 

‘We will not be closing.’ Amid the fires, employers and employees walk a fine line between work and safety (LA Times)

Dr. David Michaels, Professor at The George Washington University and former Assistant Secretary of Labor at OSHA, reiterates employers’ essential role in protecting their workers amid natural disasters and extreme weather. Under certain circumstances, employers’ decisions can mean life or death for workers. 

Toxic fallout from LA fires will damage both land and sea (USA Today)

The Los Angeles fires have caused unprecedented and lasting environmental and ecosystem damage. While high health risks remain, Dr. Michaels reminds employers that workers may not be able to return to their jobs in person. 

What HR can do to protect employees affected by wildfires (HR Brew)

Tracy Watts, Senior Partner, National Leader for U.S. Health Policy at Mercer, and Andrew Sommer, Litigation and Cal/OSHA Partner at Fisher Phillips, share ways HR can support employees impacted by wildfires. Including the must-dos and extra nice-to-haves to make sure your team feels supported.