Climate change is affecting Canadians’ health according to a new report from Health Canada.
The 768-page document explains how the health impacts of climate change are being felt across the country.
The Northwestern Health Unit says it’s now reviewing the findings.
Local officials are using the assessment results to inform local work and policy development which will ultimately help prioritize action to reduce climate change impacts on the health of those living in the area.
There are nine key findings in the document:
1. Climate change is already negatively impacting the health of Canadians.
2. Health risks will increase as warming continues, and the greater the warming, the greater the threats to health.
3. Some Canadians are affected more severely by climate change, as exposure and sensitivity to hazards and the ability to take protective measures varies across and within populations and communities.
4. The effects of climate change on health systems in Canada — for example, damage to health facilities and disruptions to health services and operations — are already evident and will increase in the absence of strong adaptation measures.
5. Efforts to prepare for climate change are known to reduce risks and protect health. We must take action now.
6. The health impacts of climate change on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples are far-reaching, with disproportionate impacts on their communities, including food and water security and safety, air quality, infrastructure, personal safety, mental health and wellness, livelihoods, culture, and identity.
7. To successfully protect all Canadians from the health impacts of climate change, decision makers must pursue adaptation actions that are inclusive and equitable and consider the needs of racialized, marginalized, and low-income populations.
8. Increased efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are required to help protect the health of Canadians.
9. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can provide very large and immediate health co-benefits to Canadians.
The full report can be found on the Publications and Reports page of the Natural Resources Canada website or at Changing Climate
