Is Climate Change Causing Sleep Loss?
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing humanity. Not only does it cause significant changes in weather patterns, but it also has a serious impact on human health – and one of the most worrying consequences is its negative impact on sleep.
According to the 8th Lancet Countdown report on health and climate change, global nighttime temperatures have increased significantly in recent years, causing more widespread sleep loss. Over the past five years (compared to the period 1986-2005), the total number of hours of sleep lost worldwide has increased by 5%, and this figure increased by 6% in 2023 alone – the hottest year on record.
Nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures, making it difficult for the human body to adapt, especially in the summer. This reduces the body’s ability to cool down and recover, directly affecting sleep. People with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular or respiratory diseases are the most severely affected group.
Climate change is the leading cause of sleep deprivation in people (illustration). (Image: freepik)
Studies show that regions like the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa, where temperatures are consistently high, have seen a sharp increase in sleep loss due to climate change. Even in temperate regions, this impact is exacerbated by increased urbanization and concrete development, which reduces green spaces and increases ambient temperatures.
To cope with rising nighttime temperatures, people are increasingly relying on cooling devices such as air conditioners. It is forecast that by 2050, the demand for electricity for cooling devices could triple compared to the present.
While this is a solution to reduce the discomfort caused by high temperatures, it also creates a vicious cycle: the increased use of energy from fossil fuels for cooling contributes to additional greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.
Scientists emphasize that sleep loss is not simply a personal health issue but is closely linked to the sustainable development of society. When people’s sleep is disrupted, labor productivity decreases, healthcare costs increase, and quality of life declines.
To address this issue, not only are short-term adaptation solutions such as using air conditioning or improving living conditions needed, but also long-term actions to mitigate climate change. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding green spaces, and transitioning to renewable energy.
Kevin Lomas, a professor at Loughborough University who studies the relationship between temperature and sleep, said that in the UK, when bedroom temperatures exceed about 27°C (80.6°F), people start to have difficulty cooling their bodies.
He shared: “When people’s sleep is disrupted, the consequences are not just minor issues but can be prolonged and have long-term health effects.” Although not involved in the Lancet study, Lomas still emphasized the importance of sleep for overall health.
Source: Time Magazine
