According to experts, Canada is warming faster than anywhere else in the world.
The effects of climate change are often more pronounced here than in many other regions around the globe. Ecosystems, economy, and daily life are increasingly being impacted by shifting weather patterns, rising temperatures, and environmental degradation.
There are various ways in which humans and species are feeling the multifaceted effects of climate change. Below is an overview of those effects, but we explore them in-depth in our campaign, Vanishing: The Biodiversity Crisis in Canada.
Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns
One of the most immediate and visible effects of climate change in the country is the rise in temperatures. The national average temperature has risen by 1.7°C since 1948, which is about twice the global average. The warming is particularly severe in northern regions, where temperatures have increased by 2.3°C during the same period. With temperatures in Canada expected to rise further over the coming decades, this trend is predicted to continue.
Weather patterns are becoming more erratic and sometimes unpredictable as temperatures rise. Over the past years, Canada has been experiencing events such as more frequent and severe heat waves, heavy rainfall events resulting in floods and multiple wildfires taking place. Some are only natural phenomena while others are exacerbated by human activity.
Melting ice and thawing permafrost in the arctic
Canada’s Arctic region is warming at more than three times the global rate, causing significant impacts such as the melting of sea ice and depleting glaciers. The reduction in ice cover has negative effects on the Arctic ecosystem. Polar bears, seals, and other wildlife that depend on sea ice for hunting and survival are finding it increasingly difficult to adapt. Their populations are in decline in some areas as they are unable to find food or shelter for these reasons.
Permafrost is also thawing. This is particularly dangerous because it releases large amounts of greenhouse gas including methane and carbon dioxide, which have been trapped in the frozen soil for millennia. These emissions contribute to the acceleration of global warming. As permafrost becomes unstable, it can result in difficult consequences for humans and other species.
Impact on ecosystems and biodiversity
Climate change is reshaping Canada's ecosystems and biodiversity in profound ways. As temperatures rise, species are shifting their ranges northward in search of cooler habitats. This migration can lead to disruptions in ecosystems, as species that previously did not coexist are now forced to interact, leading to changes in predator-prey relationships and competition for resources.
For example, great white sharks, tiger sharks, and blacktip sharks were once largely confined to temperate and subtropical waters. They are being observed in more northern latitudes and reaching Canada, particularly in the Atlantic. Warmer ocean temperatures are expanding their hunting grounds, allowing them to follow prey species that are also migrating northward.
Public health consequences
Climate change poses a growing threat to public health in Canada. Heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent and intense, are leading to heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Air quality is another concern. Wildfires, which are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change, release large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere, leading to respiratory problems for people living in affected areas. Poor air quality is particularly harmful for individuals with asthma, children, and the elderly.
There are a myriad of public health consequences caused by climate change which can include water-borne diseases and food safety, vector-borne diseases (disease-carrying insects), various mental health impacts, health impacts from displacement, increased effects of allergies and respiratory infections, all which could lead to a strain on the healthcare system.
Economic impacts
Natural resource industries, such as forestry, agriculture, and fishing are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The forestry sector is being affected by pests and wildfires, leading to job losses and reduced productivity. The agriculture sector faces more frequent droughts, changing precipitation patterns, and shifting growing seasons.
The cost of dealing with the consequences of climate change, such as repairing infrastructure damaged by extreme weather or relocating communities affected by wildfires or rising sea levels can place a significant impact on municipal, provincial, and federal budgets.
Insurance claims related to climate-related disasters have been on the rise, with estimates that costs could reach billions of dollars annually. For example, the flash floods in Toronto and the wildfire in Jasper, Alberta, both occurring in July 2024, respectively caused nearly $1 billion in insured damages.
Learn more about climate change and biodiversity in Canada
Climate change is reshaping Canada’s environment and society in what can be argued as extreme ways. From rising temperatures and melting ice in the Arctic to increased wildfires, changing ecosystems and economic disruptions, the effects are widespread and varied.
Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort from all levels of government, industries, and communities. In particular, the voices of those who are often disproportionately affected by climate change and government policy must be central to Canada’s climate action plan.
As these challenges grow, it is essential for Canada to prioritize climate mitigation and adaptation strategies to build resilience for ecosystems and species along with protecting public health. Addressing climate change through sustainable policies, improved health systems and support for affected communities will be key to safeguarding humans and species.
To learn more about climate change and other factors affecting biodiversity, read our report, Vanishing: The Biodiversity Crisis in Canada, at the link below.
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