Weather, Its Impact, Our Responsibility

The weather influences human activity, productivity, and liveliness. Three weeks ago, our Sunday walk was postponed to 5:30 p.m., instead of the usual 3:30 p.m., because of the “canicule” heatwave. One of the walkers and I exchanged cheerfully what we did that week of 40°C, which was the highest recorded temperature in France. She spent most of the time eating watermelon in front of an electric fan, while I ate 300 grams of home-made avocado sorbet next to an air circulator while playing chess online (I lost most of my games).

Bright, sunny days encourage outdoor activity, social interaction, and physical exercise. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with improved mood, alertness, and mental well-being. As a result, people often feel more energetic, optimistic, and productive during periods of pleasant weather. However, sunny days with scorching heat make us less inclined to exercise, socialise, or engage enthusiastically in work, leading to lower productivity and a diminished sense of vitality.

Of course, the weather’s influence is also shaped by culture and adaptation. My French friends have commented: “What are you complaining about; you’re from Queensland, where the average daytime summer (December-February) temperature is 29-35°C. Also, you were born in the Philippines with a tropical climate, so you should cope well with this sweltering heat. Well, 35°C is not 40°C, and I never experienced the heat getting into my skin while in Australia, unlike in France. I’ve lived longer outside than inside the latter. There you are; I’ve my excuses for being less active during “canicule” in this country of baguette, buttered snails, and camembert.

The weather affects not only productivity or happiness; it influences family, group, or company decisions. For instance, companies have introduced workplace policies and practices that respond to extreme weather conditions, e.g. teleworking, flexible working hours, and providing free or subsidised air-conditioned transport. Recognising the significant effects of weather allows individuals and societies to better support health, well-being, and performance throughout the year. 

Summer isn’t over yet, and the European Union (EU – has 27 member countries) has already experienced its worst wildfire on record. Spain is the worst hit, followed by France. According to Euronews, so far, more than 250,000 hectares in the EU have gone up in flames, which is roughly the size of Luxembourg, where I work. (https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2026/07/29/wildfires-europe-on-track-for-worst-year-on-record-as-burned-area-reaches-size-of-luxembou? Seen 30/07/2026).

According to NASA, “Fire weather is becoming more common, and human activities are the main cause”. – https://science.nasa.gov/earth/explore/wildfires-and-climate-change/ Seen 01/08/2026.

We only have one planet, which is our only home. We all share it. It’s like being on a boat with a hole in its hull: if one part begins to sink, eventually the entire boat goes down. In the same way, if we fail to protect one part of our planet, the consequences will ultimately affect us all.