Canada’s government on Thursday unveiled a plan that calls for an investment equivalent to about 1.2 billion Swiss francs to adapt to climate change.
September climate protest in Ottawa.Image: Keystone
The so-called climate adaptation strategy would therefore finance programs to protect the country and its inhabitants from the effects of heat waves, rising sea levels and thawing permafrost. “Climate change is affecting every community in Canada,” said Public Safety Secretary Bill Blair.
His government estimates that the annual cost of natural disasters in Canada will increase to €11.1 billion by 2030. Blair said the frequency and severity of climate-related events has increased in recent years, not only in Canada but around the world.
Greenpeace: “a big step forward”
Greenpeace praised the adaptation strategy as a “huge step forward”. The goals also include educating Canadians about the risks of natural disasters. In addition, 15 new urban national parks are to be established, 30 percent of land and water areas are to be protected to preserve biodiversity, and avert extreme heat deaths.
According to the government, the adjustment measures can save 15 times the investment made. (SDA/AFP)
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