Climate change and third-world economies

The Takeaway

This year alone, deadly food riots have plagued many countries, coupled with droughts, earthquakes, heat waves and cyclones; have all triggered big questions about global warming. A new study that looks at global warming and economics concludes that natural catastrophes will not be shared equally — the authors argue that there is essentially a domino-affect.

Stephen Dubner, "Freakonomics" author, says global warming will affect world economies differently; but the bottom line is that poor countries will suffer far more than other countries.

Dubner says the authors of the study looked at temperature and precipitation data for every country in the world for the last 50 years, and then compared it to economic growth in those countries. They found that for poor countries, a rise in temperature of one degree Celsius, results in a negative growth shock of about one percent to the economy.

"The Takeaway" is PRI’s new national morning news program, delivering the news and analysis you need to catch up, start your day, and prepare for what’s ahead. The show is a co-production of WNYC and PRI, in editorial collaboration with the BBC, The New York Times Radio, and WGBH.

More at thetakeaway.org

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!