DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard
BROCK: Durham Region’s Health Protection Division recently presented a detailed report to Brock Township Council, outlining the significant impacts of climate change on public health in the area. Tara Zupancic, Alexandra Swirski, and Sendi Struna led the presentation which focused on extreme heat and other vulnerabilities identified in a series of reports mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards.
The first report in the series, titled Understanding the Local Health Impacts of Climate Change, was released in August of 2024 and, serves as a primer for understanding the broader health implications of a changing climate. Subsequent reports are addressing specific vulnerabilities, starting with the Durham Region Report on Extreme Heat. These reports aim to assess the impact of extreme weather, vector-borne diseases, food and water quality, air quality, and ultraviolet radiation on the health of Durham Region residents.
During the presentation, the team emphasized the growing threat of extreme heat, particularly in North Durham municipalities, such as Brock, which are expected to experience the greatest increases in heat events. “We are seeing projections which suggest heat events will double in the coming decades,” said Ms. Zupancic. “Rural areas are particularly vulnerable, due to urban sprawl and low-density housing, which exacerbate the heat risks.”
The presentation highlighted the populations 'most at risk' during extreme heat events, including outdoor workers, seniors over 60, infants, children, pregnant women, Indigenous peoples, those with chronic health conditions, newcomers, and individuals who are socially or materially disadvantaged. “These groups are disproportionately affected,” explained Ms. Swirski. “Our goal is to ensure they have the resources and support needed to adapt to the challenges ahead.”
The team also outlined potential solutions, to mitigate the effects of extreme heat, emphasizing the importance of nature-based approaches. Recommendations included: preserving forests, implementing tree-planting incentive programs, protecting wetlands and grasslands, and introducing shade policies. “Nature offers some of the most effective tools for cooling neighbourhoods and increasing resilience,” said Ms. Swirski.
Durham Region has already implemented several initiatives to address climate and health challenges. These include: a Heat Warning Information System, to alert residents during extreme heat events; the Greener Homes Program, to promote energy efficiency and climate resilience; and the Local Housing Corporation’s Energy Efficiency and Resilience Strategy. Despite these efforts, the presenters noted, significant knowledge gaps remain. “We need to prioritize action, share knowledge, and engage with the community to support prevention and preparedness,” said Ms. Zupancic.
Council members expressed their appreciation, for the comprehensive presentation, and acknowledged the urgency of addressing these challenges. “This is not just about the future; it’s about taking action now, to protect our most vulnerable residents,” said Regional Councillor Mike Jubb. The presentation concluded with a call for collaborative efforts, to safeguard the health and well-being of the community in the face of a warming climate.
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