As part of continued public consultation, Chatham-Kent has launched the second online survey for the development of its climate change action plan.
Participants can share their thoughts on what should be done to address flooding, heat waves, extreme weather, nature and energy costs.
“We’re a large municipality with low population density, and an economy centered on agriculture and manufacturing,” Gabriel Clarke, the municipal growth and sustainability manager, said in a release.
“We need to drive, we use diesel to power our tractors, and we need to heat and cool our homes and businesses. Energy powers our economy.”
The plan aims to create “local benefits like reducing the local impacts of climate change, enhancing nature and reducing energy-related spending in our community, rather than rigidly focusing on greenhouse gas emissions.”
A local analysis found Chatham-Kent’s climate has become hotter and wetter over the last several decades and this trend is projected to continue, increasing the chances of heat waves, flooding, erosion and extreme weather.
Another report found transportation and heating and cooling buildings make up the majority of local energy costs.
Survey participants can review ideas for actions, add their own and vote on those they wish to see implemented.
“No matter where you stand on. . . climate change, you and your family have more than likely been affected by increases in energy prices, flooding, or heat waves, and I’m sure you have good ideas about what should be done,” Mayor Darrin Canniff said. “So, please share them, the plan will be a lot better if you do.”
The online survey can be accessed via the Climate Change Action Plan project page at letstalkchatham-kent.ca