Climate Change, Air Pollution and health
A Dangerous Loop
The threats of climate change and air pollution feed into one another in a dangerous loop. Emissions from industry and transportation increase the speed of climate change, which then exacerbates the amount and exposure of air pollutants in a vicious cycle. By highlighting these interactions, we can tackle solutions collaboratively and work to reduce these threats.
Global climate change alters ambient temperature. As these temperatures rise, as does humidity causes air to circulate. Warmer temperatures increase concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and its circulation. These harmful pollutants harm our bodies by increasing the risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), ischaemic stroke, lung cancer and acute lower respiratory infections [1]. Particularly, to those communities with limited access to medical and social services [2].
The Lungs of the Earth and of Canadians Alike
As witnessed summer after summer, Canadian forests and ecosystems suffer from devastating wildfires and the research is very clear. Through climate change and rising temperatures, this phenomenon will only increase [4]. While fire physically alters forests and adjacent communities, the smoke naturally acutely increases air pollution and subsequent lung damage [6]. Wildfire smoke releases PM2.5 and other toxic substances that linger in communities for days to months, with hazards more common during heat waves and droughts [5]. The lungs of the earth suffer as greatly as those of our communities.
The Risk are Disproportionate and Not Equal
When closely examining demographics, some people are more at risk than others to air pollutants such. Research points to children, pregnant women, older adults and those with pre-existing lung and heart conditions as significantly more at risk to climate related health risks through air pollution [9]. People in low socioeconomic neighbourhoods and communities may be more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution due to underlying health problems, poor nutrition and stress.
In Canada, tuberculosis rates are four times higher among Métis people, 57 times higher among First Nations people living on reserve, 24 times higher among First Nations people living off reserve, and 284 times higher among Inuit compared to Canadian-born non-Indigenous people [8]. These existing health inequities can compound the health risks related to climate change impacts on air quality.
Leaning Into Co-Benefits to Maximize Success
The rapid rate of global climate change and diminishing opportunity to keep warming below 1.5°C (IPCC, 2018) means nations must act urgently to prepare for impacts on health and the environment. By addressing air pollution through a climate lens we can work to slow the impacts of climate change, prepare for health effects and tackle social and economic challenges.
In 2022, led by Health Canada, the report “Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate : Advancing our health for action” was released to assess the risk of climate change to the health of Canadians and to the health care system.
The report leans into the intersections between a changing climate, air pollution and health as well as the co-benefits of tackling these problems across sectors. Co-benefits of climate change mitigation add to the value of action taken by tackling several social, economic and environmental goals in one. For example, reducing fossil fuel use and greening communities through walk and bike paths can improve air quality through reduction in fine particulates (soot and ground-level ozone) which reduces cardiovascular and respiratory disease while improving mental health which reduces social isolation and crime [7].
The Non-Profit Sector Needs Cross-Sectoral Collaboration
Civil society and NGOs specifically have the power to influence the reduction of pollution by advocating the government (federal, provincial, municipal), to industries and the general public. Increasing air quality and collaboration between sectors can begin within our networks. Ensure that we advocate and practice clean energy, communicating these co-benefits through a climate, economic and social lens. NGOs can use their platforms to advocate on these important issues that affect our health and planet alike. Participate in campaigns, public events and political rallies that aim to increase air quality for communities across Canada.
Initiatives by Organizations to Reduce Impact on Air Quality, Climate Change and Health
Ecology Action Centre
In Nova Scotia, Ecology Action has started initiatives to support sustainable transportation. They have analyzed barriers that prevent individuals from utilizing sustainable methods for transportation and have found solutions for these barriers.
Please click on the link below to learn more about their initiatives.
Green Action Centre
In Manitoba, Green Action Centre provides answers to finding sustainable solutions for transportation to school or work. They currently provide active and sustainable transportation for young children heading off to school. Green Action Centre also works alongside employers and businesses to find solutions for employees to find sustainable ways to commute to work.
Please click on the link below to learn more about their initiatives.
Green Up
In Ontario, GreenUP has established its initiatives for the residents of Peterborough. The purpose of their initiatives is to educate and encourage residents in Peterborough to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase their physical activity, and improve their quality of life.
Please click on the link below to learn more about their initiatives.