Timing is Everything When Talking About Climate Change

By ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability Canada)

 

Sometimes, when talking about climate change, timing is everything. A week after Hurricane Sandy struck the east coast of the United States causing significant devastation and impacting tens of millions of people very directly (including 150,000 people in Ontario who lost power), Matt Galloway, the host of CBC Toronto's morning show, Metro Morning, spoke with Lawson Oates, Director of the Toronto Environment Office about a report going to the City's Parks and Environment Committee on November 9th entitled: Toronto's Future Weather & Climate Driver Study.

The report, prepared by SENES Consulting with the Toronto Environment Office, looks at what Toronto's climate will look like by 2050. The study notes that the city will see increased heat waves, increasing temperatures in the winter, and more intensive rain storms. Mr. Oates emphasized the costs associated with these major impacts, noting that while a one hour deluge in August 2005 cost the city $47 million and caused $600 million in insured losses for residents, future storms may be more intense and costly. The report also notes that the number of days with temperatures more than 30 degrees will more than triple, with maximum humidex ratings reaching up to the high 50s. He emphasized the need to adapt in order to avoid costly repairs in the future, protect vulnerable populations, and avoid the loss of services which have significant impacts on people and businesses.

To listen to the interview, click here

 

Full Website: ICLEI Canada