Concurrent Sessions 1 | Feb 19, 2020 > (CS1-HE) Extreme Heat Impacts on Vulnerable Populations: A BC Case Study
Presenters: Kerri Klein (moderator), Kathleen McLean, Tamsin Mills and Magdalena Szpala
Canadians are experiencing more frequent and extreme heat events. Climate change models predict that by 2050, very hot days (above 30°C) may occur across Canada four times as frequently as they do today. Climate impacts like extreme heat and poor air quality from wildfires will exacerbate existing inequities, and those that are most vulnerable will be at greater risk.
This session will highlight the work of several sectors in BC to build resilience for these populations. The session will feature an overview of the health risks of extreme hot weather and air pollution by the BC Centre for Disease Control and presentations by BC Housing and the City of Vancouver on response plans that specifically target the needs of vulnerable populations. With facilitation by Shift Collaborative, this session will encourage sharing climate response and adaptation knowledge, practices and resources in a way that builds resilience for all, including vulnerable populations.