Climate change is increasingly disrupting global supply chains, particularly in weather dependent sectors such as agriculture. Agriculture remains a large part of the Australia logistics landscape.
As global temperatures rise, the frequency and severity of extreme weather events - such as droughts, floods, and storms - have escalated, leading to significant economic impacts. For instance, severe droughts have already reduced Australia's GDP by approximately 1% (Neal, 2025). Projections indicate that by 2050, extreme climate related weather events could halve the agricultural output of the Murray Darling Basin, which currently accounts for 50% of Australia's irrigated agricultural output by value (Neal, 2025).
These environmental disruptions not only affect production but also the logistics of supply chains. Recent flooding in Far North Queensland, for example, damaged road networks, threatening banana supply chains in an area responsible for nearly 94% of Australia's banana production (Neal, 2025). Such events underscore the vulnerability of supply chains to climate induced disturbances.
The increasing frequency of severe storms poses significant challenges to international shipping and air cargo operations. Maritime transport is particularly vulnerable, as extreme weather can disrupt port operations, delay vessel berthing, and hinder cargo handling. For example, severe weather events can lead to berthing delays and increased exposure to adverse conditions for waiting ships, as well as disruptions in supply chains, potentially causing damage to perishable goods (Britannia P&I Club, 2025).
Similarly, air cargo operations are susceptible to weather induced delays. Data indicates that weather related issues account for approximately 33% of air traffic delays, with factors such as lightning, high winds, precipitation, and reduced visibility significantly impacting schedules (Air Cargo News, 2018). The unpredictability and increasing frequency of these weather events necessitate continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies to mitigate their impact on air freight.
In response to these challenges, new job roles are emerging to enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability. One such role is that of a Climate Resilience Officer, responsible for developing strategies to mitigate climate risks within supply chains. These professionals analyse climate data to anticipate potential disruptions and implement measures to safeguard operations.
Another emerging role is the Sustainable Supply Chain Analyst. Individuals in this position assess the environmental impact of supply chain activities and recommend sustainable practices to reduce carbon footprints. This aligns with findings that companies' supply chains generate, on average, 11.4 times more emissions than their in house operations (Boston Consulting Group, 2023).
Additionally, the rise of Renewable Energy Integration Specialists is notable. These experts focus on incorporating renewable energy sources into supply chain operations, aiming to decrease reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy efficiency. This shift is crucial, as transitioning to renewable energy is a key strategy in combating climate change and its associated supply chain disruptions.
The evolving landscape of global supply chains, influenced by climate change, necessitates the development of these new professions. As industries adapt to environmental challenges, the demand for roles centered on sustainability and resilience is expected to grow, fostering a workforce equipped to navigate and mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.
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References:
Air Cargo News. (2018). The impact of weather on air cargo operations. Retrieved from https://www.aircargonews.net/cargo-airport/the-impact-of-weather-on-air-cargo-operations/
Boston Consulting Group. (2023). Climate Action Starts with Supply Chains. Retrieved from https://www.bcg.com/publications/2023/climate-change-starts-with-supply-chains
Britannia P&I Club. (2025). Climate change, severe weather and its impact on shipping risks. Retrieved from https://britanniapandi.com/2025/01/climate-change-climate-change-severe-weather-and-its-impact-on-shipping-risks/
Neal, T. (2025, February 26). Climate change to drive supply chain disruption, expert warns. Accounting Times. Retrieved from https://www.accountingtimes.com.au/economy/climate-change-to-drive-supply-chain-disruption-expert-warns
