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Date Published: 28/11/2024

Spain introduces groundbreaking 'climate leave' following Valencia floods

A new law means workers in Spain will be able to take up to 4 days off for climate catastrophes

Spain has taken a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by climate emergencies with the introduction of “climate leave”, a paid work absence of up to four days during catastrophes or extreme weather events.

The new measure, which has been inspired by international models like Canada’s, was approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers as part of a Royal Decree-Law on labour and climate-related risk prevention.

The regulation, championed by Second Vice-President and Minister of Employment and Social Economy Yolanda Díaz, allows workers to take paid leave when they are unable to access their workplace due to travel restrictions, weather alerts or imminent dangers.

Related story: 5 things we are all getting wrong about wildfires in Spain, according to Greenpeace

Beyond the four-day allowance, businesses can transition employees to force majeure ERTE (temporary employment regulation) or extend the leave period with financial support. For roles where remote working is possible, companies are encouraged to implement work-from-home options under existing legislation.

Minister Díaz emphasised the innovative nature of the scheme, stating, “For the first time in Spain, we have genuine climate leave, a milestone aligning with our commitment to green policies and resilience in the face of the climate emergency.”

This initiative comes on the heels of severe flooding in Valencia caused by a DANA storm in late October, which temporarily suspended work for many affected individuals.

The government has since pledged substantial aid to rebuild the region and is now embedding long-term climate resilience measures into national labour law as they are expecting such extreme climate episodes to become more common in the future.

See also: Researchers find climate change is responsible for the deaths of 16,000 people in Spain

The new legislation also requires companies to establish protocols within 12 months to address risks linked to catastrophes and adverse weather. These action plans will be tailored to specific workplace environments, considering the varied impacts of climate risks on different professions. Workers’ representatives will play a crucial role in shaping and monitoring these protocols.

Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo clarified that “climate leave will apply when workers cannot physically reach their workplace and remote work is not feasible,” ensuring that the measure is reserved for severe and unavoidable situations.

It’s a move that reflects Spain’s continuing commitment to proactive and sustainable governance in the face of escalating climate challenges, and puts the country at the forefront among European countries for integrating climate adaptation into the workplace and broader society.

In other environmental news: Spain embraces money-back system to tackle plastic pollution

Image: Bombers Consorci VLC

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