Make Your Voice Count: How Voting Can Protect Our Planet in Climate Corner

What matters most to you in this election? With the next four years ahead, certain issues will impact our lives significantly.

A recent poll shows that environmental concerns are getting less attention than they did in 2021. This shift is striking, especially as many Canadians face rapid changes in their lives. It’s not easy to determine who will best represent us on both a national and global scale. The constant news about the world’s troubles can leave us feeling anxious or wanting to shut it all out.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that everything is interconnected. Events in one part of Canada can affect the entire country. According to the Vote Compass survey, key voter issues include US-Canada relations, the economy, cost of living, social justice, and healthcare—all influenced by climate change. Ignoring environmental issues right now is not an option.

Weakening regulations on water, pollution, and biodiversity won’t improve health or security for Canadians. In fact, the consequences can be severe. As extreme weather events like wildfires and floods become more common, insurance premiums will likely rise for everyone. Delaying commitments to net-zero targets won’t bring back carefree fossil fuel consumption.

Pollution in our air, water, and food can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Climate change will also hit our economy and cost of living hard if we don’t push forward with renewable energy projects, funding for heat pumps, and better public transport options.

Misinformation is everywhere on social media. Short headlines can distort the truth, and sometimes the media presents data that only confuses the audience. Now isn’t the time to brush climate change aside as an election issue.

Take a look at the websites of candidates or directly ask them what plans they have for addressing climate change and sustainable goals. As some Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers remind us, decisions made today can impact our planet for seven generations.

It’s essential to advocate for the environment, not just when voting but continuously afterward. Holding our elected officials accountable ensures that environmental protection remains a priority in all decisions.

In recent years, public sentiment around climate change has been shifting. A report from the Canadian Institute for Climate Choices indicates that 75% of Canadians now view climate change as a serious issue that needs immediate action. These numbers show that while environmental topics might seem sidelined, many can see their significance.

By prioritizing these issues, we not only safeguard our future but also contribute to discussions that can lead to substantive change. For further details on climate action and insights regarding environmental policies, you can check out the Halton Hills Climate Action.

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