Impacts of Climate Change

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Climate Change 2007 - Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date scientific assessment of the impacts of climate change on all regions of the world, the vulnerability of natural and human environments, and possible ways to adapt to climate change.

Across Canada we are witnessing the impacts of a warming climate first hand, which is having a negative effect on the environment and the health of Canadians. For example, a warming climate has been linked to the pine beetle infestation that has ravaged our boreal forests, and to the melting of permafrost in the north that has destabilized the foundations of homes and schools. While the specific impacts vary by region, all of Canada's provinces and territories are experiencing the effects of a changing climate.

In a warmer world, snow cover will be reduced sea ice will continue to shrink and it is very likely that heat waves and heavy precipitation events will continue to be more frequent. Increases in the amount of precipitation are very likely at high latitudes, while decreases are likely in most subtropical land regions many of which are already arid.

From Impacts to Adaptation: Canada in a Changing Climate 2007 presents conclusions about vulnerabilities to climate change in Canada, and its current and future impacts. It also discusses adaptations being taken now to reduce risks and to take advantage of opportunities associated with changing climate, and those that could be undertaken in future.

Related Links:

• Regional Impacts of a Changing Climate
• Environmental Impacts
• Health Impacts