Chapter 1: The Climate Crisis in Canada

Canada is experiencing climate change at an alarming rate—twice as fast as the global average. The nation is grappling with various climate-related challenges. To the east, rising sea levels are exacerbating issues like shoreline erosion and flooding, which compromise water infrastructure. The northern territories face severe freeze-thaw cycles, while the west endures frequent storms. Droughts in the Prairie regions are damaging roadways, and extreme heat and heavy snowfall are straining the electrical grid.

So, are Canadians interested in investing in solutions to the climate crisis? The response hinges on the phrasing of the question rather than the respondents themselves. A Global News survey from July 2019 revealed that fewer than half of Canadians were willing to pay for climate change mitigation efforts. However, this figure soared to 80% when the poll addressed support for a Carbon Tax and Rebate program, which taxes pollution but redistributes the funds to help families and businesses adopt climate-friendly practices.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) indicates that proactive measures could reduce climate change impacts by as much as 75%. An IBC study estimated that to avoid severe consequences of climate change at the municipal level, Canada would need to invest around $5.3 billion annually. This cost is to be shared across federal, regional, and municipal governments.

When compared to Canada's GDP of $1.731 trillion in 2018, this investment equates to a mere 0.3% of the economy each year. To fortify resilience against climate change, Canada requires an additional $2 billion for its Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund through 2023–2024 and at least $1 billion annually for the next 20 years for long-term federal tools. Given the size of the economy, these figures are manageable. For context, in 2019, Canada signed a $2 billion deal for new armored vehicles. The question becomes one of priorities.

Chapter 2: Empowering Change Through Voting

In an age where changing habits can be challenging, the most effective action you can take for the climate is to vote. Participate in elections that support legislation aimed at unlocking funds for climate adaptation at all governmental levels. It's that straightforward.

Voting in the United States averages 35 minutes. So, make your voice heard—not just for the planet, but for your family and community. Encourage others to do the same. Why is your vote so vital?

To effectively adapt to climate change and bolster community resilience, countries must adopt a dual approach:

1. Immediately fund ready-to-go projects to assist high-risk communities.
2. Create long-term national tools by collaborating with local municipalities to fully assess needs.

Your vote underpins comprehensive policy solutions that back funding for rapid implementation, helping communities adapt to climate change.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has projected future temperature changes in the U.S. from 2071 to 2099 compared to the period from 1970 to 1999. The map below illustrates the stark contrast between continuing current emission trends and implementing stronger climate policies.

Both scenarios indicate that while higher latitudes will see more apparent warming, the tropics may face critical challenges. Rapid climate adaptation is crucial, especially as species in tropical regions may struggle to adjust to even minor temperature shifts.

Joshua Tewksbury, a professor at The University of Washington, emphasizes the need to understand both the extent of climate change and how organisms can adapt. The predicted temperature increases, especially in temperate zones, could overwhelm the capacity of many species to adapt.

Understanding these dynamics highlights that while we may not be able to fix everything, we can prioritize our efforts. The most pressing climate risks include threats to:

1. Physical infrastructure
2. Coastal communities
3. Human health
4. Fisheries

Not all risks can be mitigated equally; fisheries and natural systems face significant challenges in adaptation. Jonathan Wilkerson, the Canadian Fisheries Minister, notes the difficulty of helping species adjust to changing environments.

Health risks from climate change manifest through toxic smoke from wildfires, heatwaves, and flood-related injuries. While physical infrastructure, particularly in coastal areas, is at high risk, it is also one of the more adaptable sectors. Updating building codes and design standards can enhance resilience and protect communities.

Your influence as a consumer, voter, and engaged citizen can lead to broader changes. Advocate for climate action with your government representatives and local officials.

Discover the most effective climate actions individuals can take to combat climate change.

Learn why discussing climate change is crucial in the fight against it, featuring insights from Katharine Hayhoe.