A new report released by the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit shows significant health risks posed by climate change in the area. The Climate Change Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment report emphasizes that climate change is not just an environmental issue but also the “biggest global health threat of the 21st century”.
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current and future impacts of climate change on the health of residents. It also identifies populations more likely to be impacted and provides recommendations on building adaptive capacity to reduce the associated health risks.
According to the report, climate change can affect health by worsening existing health conditions and by introducing new health threats in areas where they have not been previously observed.
“This report shows that climate change is not a distant problem but a pressing local public health issue that requires immediate attention, said Sue Shikaze, Health Promoter with the HKPR District Health Unit. “We must act now to protect the health and well-being of our residents, especially those at greatest risk.”
Climate hazards identified in the report include extreme temperatures, extreme weather, poor air quality, vector-borne diseases, safe food, and water, and solar ultraviolet radiation.
Officials say there is a strong need for collaborative efforts to increase adaptive capacity and resilience in the face of climate change. The report calls for action from multiple sectors, including healthcare, environmental agencies, community organizations, and policymakers, to address the identified vulnerabilities and implement strategies to protect health.
The next phase of the health unit’s work is the development of a Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan that will provide a detailed roadmap for implementing adaptive measures to ensure the future health and well-being of the community.
The full report can be found on the HKPR website.
**Written by Lee Griffi
