Climate change is not a distant threat—it is a pressing reality that is already affecting communities across Canada. The country is grappling with increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events, including heatwaves, wildfires, floods, and storms. For instance, in July 2024, a devastating wildfire ravaged the historic town of Jasper, Alberta, causing significant destruction. Approximately 30% of the town’s structures were either damaged or completely destroyed. Leading up to the fire, Jasper had experienced less than 1mm of rainfall, while temperatures soared to 38°C. The immediate damage of these fires is severe, but they also release vast amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, exacerbating the very crisis they are a part of.
Climate change is also warming the Arctic at twice the global average rate, accelerating the loss of sea ice. This rapid change is having profound impacts on Arctic wildlife and the communities that rely on the land. The consequences of these changes extend far beyond the North, affecting ecosystems and economies across North and South America, and ultimately, the entire planet.
The Time to Act is Now
The climate crisis is no longer a problem of the future—it is happening right now, in our midst. The urgency to act has never been clearer. While it’s encouraging to see individuals adopting greener behaviors, such as recycling, supporting sustainable technologies, and reducing carbon footprints, these actions alone are not enough to reverse the damage. To truly address the climate crisis, we need a systemic shift.
Governments at all levels must prioritize policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage sustainable practices. Effective measures such as carbon pricing, which incentivizes the use of cleaner fuels, and funding for energy-efficient buildings, are vital steps toward creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. Additionally, businesses must be supported in their transition from polluting practices to climate-friendly alternatives.
Supporting Policy Change: The Path Forward
Across Canada, organizations are advocating for policies that can drive the systemic changes needed to combat climate change. While they have already made great strides, there is still much work to be done. By contributing to the Fight Climate Change with Policy Fund, you can be part of the solution. Your donation will support eight Canadian organizations dedicated to advancing policy change through collaboration and advocacy. These organizations work together to create impactful, long-lasting change at both the provincial and federal levels.
To learn more about the organizations supported by this fund and make a contribution, visit www.canadahelps.org/en/fight-climate-change-with-policy-fund.
Together, we can make a difference.