Climate change is expected to increase exposure to poor air quality for residents of Durham Region, according to the findings of a new report released yesterday by Durham Health.
The report finds that although transportation emissions in Durham Region per person have declined since 2015, climate change is expected to increase overall exposure to air pollution by intensifying traffic-related air pollution, extending pollen seasons, trapping pollutants in stagnant air and raising the risk of wildfire smoke.
“Poor air quality days are associated with increased emergency department visits and hospitalizations, especially among older adults and children,” said Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health.
Tackling Social and Health Inequalities
The report also underscores the critical role of social and health inequalities such as income, housing and access to health care that influence the severity of air pollution-related health outcomes. Tackling these disparities is key to building a healthier, more resilient community.
The report adds to the growing evidence-base of the harms caused by climate change to Durham Region residents. “No longer can we consider climate change a threat for future generations to manage,” said Ian McVey, Durham Region’s Director, Environment & Climate.
“Evidence from the vulnerability assessment shows, the impacts and harms associated with climate change are happening today across the region and are hitting the most vulnerable the hardest, especially children and older adults. The Region will use this report to help inform and prioritize strategies to reduce risks, including through community partnerships that target the most at-risk groups,” he added.
Durham Region Health Department report, Assessing the Impact of Poor Air Quality, is available at durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth.