The disastrous effects of climate change in Canada are featured in a new report from The Lancet Countdown. They reveal a direct connection between climate change, health crises, and economic losses. The detailed analysis finds that 2023 witnessed the worst impact from wildfire smoke pollution in Canada on record. This increase represents an incredible 172 percent increase over what was recorded between 2003 and 2012. This pollution is responsible for an estimated 1,400 annual deaths directly linked to wildfire smoke.
The report details the many ways climate change is shifting weather patterns to make them more extreme. It notes that Canada faced about six days of heat waves that were attributable to the effects of climate change. These heat events played a historic role in escalating health risk and economic burden. Indeed, extreme heat exposure was the driver behind a mind-boggling 136 percent spike in lost labor hours. This shocking increase is higher than the historic rate from the 1990s.
Climate-related factors have led to the continued and now more severe loss of potential labor hours. This has resulted in an estimated $1.4 billion in lost income to the Canadian economy. Of all industries, the construction sector absorbed the greatest strike, losing close to two-thirds of all net hours. This bare-knuckled truth underscores the imperative for leaders to act now to address these complex challenges.
Additionally, the report shows just how much red meat and dairy production pumped up Canada’s agricultural emissions. In 2022, both of these sectors contributed to 39 percent of the emissions attributable to the country’s agricultural product consumption. Overconsumption of red meat, dairy, and especially processed meat is not without its major harms. In fact, it was associated with an estimated 16,000 deaths just that year.
The results show that the Big Five exacerbate climate change at a rate of up to 73 percent. This alarming trend endangers the health of the public and puts national economies at risk. The report was put together by more than 100 global experts. It sounds the alarm that the world is on track for “at least double” “potentially catastrophic” levels of global warming if we don’t act right now.
“With the threats to people’s lives and health growing, delivering a health-protective, equitable, and just transition requires all hands on deck. There is no time left for further delay.” – The Lancet Countdown report
The report underscores the need to address key drivers of GHG emissions and climate vulnerability such as transportation, energy, and housing. Experts are warning that urgent action must be taken to reduce the impacts of climate change and safeguard the health of the public.
