Climate change

A look at climate change

According to the World Health Organization, climate change currently constitutes the greatest threat to human health while also exacerbating social inequalities. Climate projections predict warmer temperatures throughout Québec, particularly in Nunavik. Extreme weather events will be more intense, last longer, and occur more frequently.

In Nunavik, climate change will result in:

  • Increasingly frequent heat waves 

  • Summary of the impacts on the health of
    the population: Heat 
  • Thawing of the permafrost

  • Summary of the impacts on the health of
    the population: Permafrost thaw
  • Conditions promoting coastal erosion

  • Summary of the impactson the health of
    the population: Coastal erosion
  • Lengthier wildfire season

  • Summary of the impacts on the health of
    the population: Forest fires and smoke
  • More rain in the spring and fall

  • Summary of the impacts on the health of
    the population: Precipitation events
  • Greater number of snowstorms

  • Summary of the impacts on the health of
    the population: Blizzards
 

Assessment of health risks

A comprehensive Health Impact Assessment Report is now available, and notably includes:

  • Overview of the climate-related risks affecting Nunavik
  • Analysis of current and projected health impacts
  • Impacts on physical, mental, cultural and community well-being
  • Vulnerable populations and greater inequalities
  • Opportunities for adaptation and resilience

Impact of Health Risk on Communities

(Image de modèle IQI – à venir)

Climate change affects communities across Nunavik in different ways. The level of risk and the health impacts vary depending on local environmental conditions, infrastructure, access to resources and community realities.

Inequalities in the face of climate change / groups at risk

While climate change affects everyone, some people may be more vulnerable to its impacts, including:

  • Young children
  • Elders
  • Pregnant women
  • People living with chronic illnesses
  • People with asthma or other respiratory diseases
  • People who work outdoors or on the land

Understanding these vulnerabilities can help communities and decision-makers identify priorities to foster greater adaptation and resilience.

Explore the health impacts of each climate risk

The assessment highlights how climate risks can impact:

  • Physical health and safety
  • Mental health and well-being
  • Food and water security
  • Access to the land and traditional activities
  • Community infrastructure and essential services
  • Exposure to infectious and zoonotic diseases

Download the comprehensive Climate risk analysis on the health and well-being of Nunavimmiut

Next steps: Developing an action plan

The Assessment of Climate Risks to Nunavimmiut Health and Well-Being Report, while representing an important milestone, is but the beginning of the adaptation journey.

The next phase of the project will focus on developing a Climate and Health Action Plan to guide priorities and interventions over the coming years. This process will be implemented in conjunction with communities, organizations and regional partners.

The action plan will:

  • Identify priority actions designed to reduce health risks
  • Strengthen community resilience and preparedness
  • Support adaptation across health and social systems
  • Establish short-, medium- and long-term objectives

Contact the team

Environmental Health team: environmental.health.rr17@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Useful links

 

With the financial participation of: