A new climate coalition filled with insurance companies, disaster experts, Indigenous groups and municipalities is calling the federal government’s new climate goals ‘‘vague and distant”.
Driving the news: In an open letter, Climate Proof argues that the government has lost sight of solutions for current climate change-linked issues like wildfires, floods, and extreme heat.
- BC’s three worst wildfire seasons on record have happened over the past five years, while last summer’s drought in the prairies was the worst seen in 50 years.
With the government’s National Adaptation Strategy set to be announced in the coming weeks, Climate Proof has also provided a list of actionable items for possible inclusion.
- The suggestions include ensuring access to air conditioning (to battle heat), flood-proofing homes, and rolling out education programs for at-risk homeowners.
Why it matters: Members like the Red Cross and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, may actually have some sway when it comes to the government applying these changes.
Yes, but: It’s going to take some serious action (and spending) to turn things around.
Canada has committed $5.3 billion to adapt to and mitigate climate change until 2026. According to the Climate Action Network, that number should be $5 billion annually.