Young woman standing in the flood waters at Lucier Estates in McGregor.Young woman standing in the flood waters at Lucier Estates in McGregor.
Windsor

Climate report suggests grim future for Essex

You might forgive Essex Town councillors if they feel a bit grim Monday night.

A report on the impacts of climate change is expected before town council that night, and it suggests significant challenges for Essex by the year 2050.

The report said crop yields would be smaller, more roads will crack in the heat or wash away because of erosion, and more basements will flood.

It also said residents could expect a higher incidence of West Nile virus and Lyme Disease, and more allergens in the air.

If that is not enough, poison ivy will have a field day in the heat and wet.

By the year 2050, winters will be 2.3 C warmer on average while winter precipitation will increase by 13 per cent. Summers will be hotter, windier, and wetter too.

The report breaks down where greenhouse gas emissions typically come from in Canada.  Mostly from burning fuel for electricity and heat. That accounts for 45 per cent of emissions. Another 28 per cent is traced back to transportation, including 19.9 per cent from the cars and trucks we drive. Another seven per cent is from industrial processes and manufacturing, while eight per cent is unattended. The rest is from agriculture and garbage and wastewater.

Climate emergency declarations have been declared by the House of Commons, 470 government agencies, the province of Quebec, and municipalities like Chatham-Kent.

The City of Windsor and the County of Essex also have motions to consider declarations coming up soon.

 

Read More Local Stories