Federal actions on climate change adaptation in Canada’s North
Petition: 374
Issue(s): Biological diversity, climate change, indigenous matters, international cooperation, natural resources
Petitioner(s): Resident of Canada
Petitioner Location(s): Peterborough, Ontario
Date Received: 23 March 2015
Status: Completed—Response(s) to petition received
Summary: The petition raises questions about the environmental, economic, and social impacts of climate change in Canada’s North. The petition asks multiple federal ministers about what actions are under way to help the region adapt to the effects of climate change. It requests information on steps taken by federal ministers to support the adaptation to changes in Arctic sea ice. Questions encompass
- federal initiatives such as climate modelling to aid species risk assessments and conservation efforts,
- sovereignty concerns arising from receding sea ice and increased access to the North, and
- responsibilities toward Inuit communities affected by declining sea ice.
The petition asks what measures are being taken to protect the food security of northern communities affected by declining sea ice. Specifically, it requests information on the current help provided to communities whose traditional fishing and hunting practices are affected by climate change.
The petition asserts that the economic and political implications of declining sea ice will be increased competition for natural resources in the Arctic, as well as changes to shipping lanes. It also asserts that Canada’s relationships with other Arctic nations may be affected.
The petition highlights the vulnerability of plants and animal species in northern ecosystems, particularly marine species that rely on sea ice, and asks for information on the environmental impacts of climate change.
Federal departments responsible for reply: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada; Environment Canada; Fisheries and Oceans Canada; Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada; Health Canada; National Defence; Natural Resources Canada; Parks Canada; Transport Canada