|
|
While greenhouse gases (GHGs) form naturally, many human activities add additional GHGs to the atmosphere. Most things that we do that consume energy, such as heating and cooling buildings, and driving vehicles, contribute to the problem.
|
Greenhouse gases
Gases that absorb infrared radiation and in turn emit it into the atmosphere. The net effect is a local trapping of energy and a tendency to warn the earth's surface The primary greenhouse gases are: Carbon dioxide (C02), Nitrous Oxide (N20), Water vapour (H20), Methane (M4H) and Ozone (O3). |
Health:
Over the next 50 years, heat waves will increase in frequency, intensity and duration in Southern Ontario. An increase in very hot days (over 35°C) could increase the risk of heat stress related health problems, especially in the very old, the very young and those with chronic lung diseases such as asthma.
Extreme Weather:
Extreme weather events such as severe thunderstorms, freezing rain events and extreme temperatures have been shown to increase deaths, injuries and stress-related disorders.
Great Lakes & Water supply:
By 2050, lake levels will be lower by as much as 1 metre. This will impact our water supply - higher water temperatures reduce water quality by creating a more favorable environment for microbes and algae, while lower water levels can affect the ability to draw water.
|
In 2002, Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions were about 731 megatonnes of CO2 equilvatents compared to about 609 megatonnes in 1990 or a 20.1% increase over 1990.
Source: Government of Canada |
|
