Global and regional climate change risks

Research indicates escalating environmental and economic threats driven by climate change. A study by Swiftest, led by co-founder Matthew H. Nash, identifies 37 global metropolises at risk of submersion or becoming uninhabitable within the next century due to rising sea levels. The report ranks Tokyo, Mumbai, and New York City among the most vulnerable, while noting that Istanbul and Izmir rank 5th and 6th respectively in terms of threat level. The research highlights that many cities currently possess insufficient flood prevention and sinking mitigation plans.

Subsequent reports from AXA Climate and Allianz Research have expanded on these risks, focusing on water and heat stress. In Turkey, projections suggest that by 2050, approximately 65 million people—roughly 74% of the population—could face high or very high levels of water stress, while 23 million people may encounter heat stress. These environmental shifts, including wildfires, floods, and landslides, are noted to impact agriculture, urban infrastructure, energy production, and supply chains.

On a broader scale, the economic implications are intensifying. The Allianz Climate Economics Report 2026 states that global economic losses from extreme weather events reached 184 billion euros in 2025, a 20% increase over the 2000-2019 average. Despite this, only 38% of total economic losses in 2025 were covered by insurance, leaving a 115 billion euro protection gap. Analysts warn that a strong El Niño could lead to a 395 billion euro production loss in 2027.