Report on Climate Change

Introduction

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, impacting ecosystems, human health,
and economies worldwide.

The Sustainable Development Network Canada (SDNC) is committed to
addressing this global crisis through informed action, advocacy, and collaboration. This report provides
an overview of the current state of climate change, its impacts, and the measures necessary to mitigate
its effects and adapt to new realities.

Current State of Climate Change

Global Temperature Rise

The Earth’s average surface temperature has risen by approximately 1.2°C since the late 19th century,
driven largely by increased carbon dioxide (CO2) and other human-made emissions into the
atmosphere. The past decade has been the warmest on record, highlighting the accelerating pace of
global warming.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, primarily from fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial
processes, continue to rise. Despite international efforts to curb emissions, global CO2 levels reached a
new high of 417 parts per million in 2023, far exceeding pre-industrial levels.

Impacts of Climate Change

Extreme Weather Events

The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, droughts, and
floods, have increased significantly. These events cause widespread devastation, threatening lives,
livelihoods, and infrastructure.

Sea Level Rise

Melting ice caps and glaciers, along with the thermal expansion of seawater, have contributed to rising
sea levels. Coastal communities face increased risks of flooding, erosion, and habitat loss, impacting
millions of people globally.

Biodiversity Loss

Climate change exacerbates the loss of biodiversity, as species struggle to adapt to changing
temperatures and shifting ecosystems. This loss undermines ecosystem services essential for human
survival, such as pollination, water purification, and disease regulation.

Human Health

Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect human health by increasing the
prevalence of heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and respiratory conditions. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those in low-income communities, are
disproportionately affected.

Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies

Renewable Energy Transition

Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, is crucial for reducing
GHG emissions. Investment in clean energy infrastructure and technologies can significantly cut
emissions and promote sustainable development.

Carbon Sequestration

Enhancing natural carbon sinks, such as forests, wetlands, and soils, can help absorb CO2 from the
atmosphere. Reforestation, afforestation, and sustainable land management practices are vital
components of this strategy.

Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

Developing climate-resilient infrastructure is essential for adapting to the impacts of climate change.
This includes building flood defenses, improving water management systems, and designing buildings to
withstand extreme weather events.

Policy and Legislation

Effective climate policies and legislation at the national and international levels are critical for driving
climate action. The Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, represents a
significant step toward global climate governance.

SDNC’s Role in Climate Action

The Sustainable Development Network Canada is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and
policies that address climate change. Our initiatives include:

• Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about climate change through public campaigns,
  educational programs, and community engagement.
• Research and Innovation: Supporting research and innovation in sustainable technologies and
  practices.
• Partnerships and Collaboration: Collaborating with governments, NGOs, and the private sector
  to implement effective climate solutions.
• Capacity Building: Providing training and resources to empower communities and organizations
  to take climate action.

Conclusion

Climate change poses a significant threat to our planet and requires urgent, coordinated action at all
levels. By sharing knowledge, implementing innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration, we can
mitigate the impacts of climate change and build a sustainable future. The SDNC remains committed leading this charge, ensuring that Canada and the global community move towards a resilient and
climate-secure world.