Recent research indicates that health issues, infectious diseases, and extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change are likely to hinder blood donation while simultaneously increasing the demand for blood.

The recent Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has underscored the vulnerability of Australia’s blood supply, leading to over 3,500 cancelled donation appointments and a significant drop in blood stocks across New South Wales and Queensland.

In response to these challenges, Australia is proactively working to protect its blood supply by expanding mobile donation units and increasing efforts to attract diverse and younger donors.

Innovative solutions, such as using drones for blood transport and implementing 'walking blood banks,' are suggested to adapt to disruptions in blood supply caused by climate events.

The study emphasizes the need to expand donor diversity and establish measures for quickly relocating donation services in response to emergencies and natural disasters.

Dr. Elvina Viennet pointed out that natural disasters such as heatwaves and floods disrupt blood storage and transportation processes, which is critical given the short shelf life of blood products.

Healthcare systems must prepare for potential disruptions by monitoring disease patterns, planning for extreme weather, and ensuring effective communication during emergencies.

Concerns have been raised about stagnant water from Cyclone Alfred potentially increasing mosquito-borne diseases like Japanese encephalitis, which can affect blood safety, although Lifeblood has robust safety strategies in place.

Without proactive measures, climate change risks transforming blood from a reliable resource into a vulnerable one, necessitating the development of flexible, resilient health networks.

Recommended strategies include establishing early warning systems, enhancing disease surveillance, and expanding flexible blood collection services to respond rapidly to emergencies.

Blood products are essential not only in emergencies but also in surgeries, cancer treatment, and care for premature babies, highlighting their critical importance.

The study highlights the growing need for a diverse donor base due to migration caused by rising sea levels, making it crucial to diversify donor backgrounds and increase participation.