Confronting Climate Change in Canada: Navigating Challenges Beyond Trump’s Era

Climate change is a pressing issue that will affect us long after the current government is gone. It’s not just about the environment; it touches on nearly every aspect of our lives—our health, economy, jobs, and even our homes. Despite being overshadowed by immediate political concerns, we must acknowledge that strong climate policies can shape a better future for us and our children.

The impact of climate change on health is significant. Experts, including those from the World Health Organization and the Canadian Public Health Association, highlight climate change as a major health challenge of our time. For instance, burning fossil fuels decreases air quality, contributing to around one in seven premature deaths in Canada and one in five globally. Conditions like extreme heat, food insecurity, and the spread of infectious diseases also worsen with climate change, severely affecting mental health as well.

The strain on our healthcare system is immense. As climate-related health issues rise, so do the costs. A report estimates that the health-related expenses due to climate change could reach up to $100 billion per year over the next few decades, driven by heat-related illnesses and pollution effects. This could create an unsustainable burden on our already stretched healthcare resources. In fact, air pollution alone costs Canada approximately $114 billion annually.

Investing in climate action can lead to substantial savings. Every dollar spent on climate-related initiatives can save about two dollars in healthcare costs. One effective tool is pollution pricing, which encourages reductions in both air and carbon pollution. Recent discussions have shown that Canadians largely support retaining pollution pricing, with 73% agreeing it’s essential for our children’s future.

A strong, forward-thinking climate policy will not only improve health outcomes but also help stabilize our economy. More than 85 organizations, including the Canadian Medical Association, support the ongoing campaign for federal climate action. This sentiment is echoed in a global study that found 89% of people want stronger political action on climate challenges.

It’s crucial that we view climate change as the public health emergency it is. Urgent action can prod the federal government to implement sustainable policies that will benefit both our health and economy.

Dr. Mili Roy, a physician and healthcare advocate, emphasizes that we are at a pivotal moment. The choices we make today will determine the quality of life for generations to come. It’s time to prioritize the health of our planet and, by extension, our communities and families.

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