Record heat waves and destructive wildfires have been reported recently across Canada and around the world.
Hurricane Milton is currently growing and is described as “catastrophic” and “deadly,” even before hitting land. There are reports of surrounding waters between 8 and 12 feet in Tampa. All of this just two weeks after Hurricane Helene killed over 230 people in the United States. According to World Weather Attribution, formed in 2015 to conduct studies on extreme weather, Hurricane Helene’s rainfall was 10 per cent heavier as a result of climate change.
Climate change is now an emergency rather than a long-term threat.
The repercussions are evident and concerning in Canada, as shown by the wildfires in British Columbia, and the record-breaking summer temperatures in Ontario.
The most obvious sign of how climate change is affecting the environment and society is probably the rise in wildfire incidences. Large areas of forest have been destroyed by wildfires, forcing people to evacuate, losing their homes and burning out centuries-old ecosystems.
These fires are more than just natural disasters, they are a sign of a critically unstable environment, brought on by extended dry spells and rising temperatures. The size of the areas affected by wildfires and the length of the wildfire season this year are clear indications that urgent action is needed. For example, in British Columbia, the 2023 wildfire season set a record with over 15 million hectares burned, the largest in Canada’s history, lasting longer than previous years. This demonstrates the growing scale and duration of the crisis, reinforcing the need for immediate solutions.
Canada’s agricultural sector is already seeing the impacts of climate change, particularly in drought-prone regions like the Prairies. Severe droughts have reduced rainfall and lowered crop yields for staples like wheat and canola. According to the Canadian Drought Monitor, Canada’s official source for the monitoring and reporting of drought nationally, farmers are struggling to adapt to these changing conditions, putting future food security at risk without significant adjustments.
While we often focus on recycling and energy-efficient lightbulbs, we overlook the larger changes needed for a real impact. The size of the problem can feel overwhelming but every effort counts.
Transitioning to renewable energy, supporting sustainable farming and reducing carbon footprints are crucial steps in combating climate change. In France, practices that could benefit Canada include robust subsidies for renewable energy, which encourage solar and wind power adoption.
French agricultural policies emphasize agroecology, enhancing biodiversity and reducing chemical use. Additionally, urban agriculture initiatives, like rooftop gardens, not only provide fresh produce but also lower carbon emissions from food transport. Learning from these successful strategies can help Canada develop effective approaches to sustainability.
Holding businesses and governments accountable is crucial, as the urgency of the global warming crisis must be reflected in public policy. This includes supporting sustainable practices and green technology to protect food and land supply.
The time for discussion has passed, concrete initiatives are needed, such as implementing green building standards for energy efficiency, investing in public transportation to reduce fossil fuel reliance, and promoting sustainable agriculture like agroforestry. These actions show a genuine commitment to meaningful change.
Climate change is a pressing reality, not just a perception.
The rise in wildfires and threats to food security require immediate action. Canadians must recognize the seriousness of the situation and adjust their routines. We can advocate for stronger environmental regulations by participating in local initiatives like tree planting and supporting policies for renewable energy. Additionally, buying local organic produce and promoting agroecological practices can help support sustainable farming.
The time to act is now, before we lose more lives and land.
Together, we can reduce climate change and ensure a livable future, but global action is essential for real impact.