Definitions

Impacts

Many of the world's top scientists believe that the average global temperature will continue to rise significantly. In Saskatchewan we could see average temperature increases of three to six degrees Celsius by the end of the 21st century. It is not just increasing temperatures that concern scientists, but what the increases may bring. Climate change may mean severe winds, hail, snow and ice storms, more droughts in some areas, more floods in others, as well as lower lake and river levels. In addition, reduction in the size of glaciers and reduced snow in the Rockies will result in less water flowing into Saskatchewan rivers. Water availability is expected to be one of the most profound impacts of climate change. It is predicted that precipitation patterns will change and crop and livestock production capabilities in many areas will be altered. Furthermore, northern forests may also be affected by reduced moisture and forest fire hazards will increase. Changes to wildlife habitat and ecology are predicted.

For more detail read Climate Change Report for the Prairies on the Environment Canada website.

Adaptation

Adaptation in the context of climate change refers to actions required to achieve sustainable adjustments to future changes in the global climate. These include changes in average weather conditions and changes in the frequency and magnitude of hazardous weather such as droughts, floods, windstorms and tornadoes. This involves taking steps to minimize the negative impacts of future climate change, while at the same time taking advantage of new opportunities presented by this change. Adaptation needs depend on the impacts of climate change.

While the policy focus is currently placed on reducing atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases through emission reductions and long term storage of gases in biologic and geologic systems, it is important to recognize that mitigation targets, as presently defined by the Kyoto Protocol, only serve to reduce the rate at which global warming is occurring. They will not prevent warming from occurring. For this reason, the Kyoto Protocol also includes commitments for parties to continue study of the impacts of climate changes and to develop appropriate adaptation strategies.

Adaptive Measures and Links

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