What we’ve heard so far

Thank you to everyone who has provided input into the Climate Resiliency Strategy. We received over 500 responses to the surveys. A summary of responses can be found in the What We Heard Report. The key findings are summarized below. This is an updated version of the Interim What we Heard Report that was released in June, 2021.

Key findings from Ottawa residents, businesses, institutions and organizations:

• 92% of respondents are very concerned or concerned about climate change
• The top three concerns about climate change are:
  • The increase in the number of heatwaves and the number of hot days above 30 degrees Celsius (78%)
  • Changes in the natural environment (71%)
  • Increased risk of flooding (70%)
• The most common impacts experienced by respondents are heatwaves (77%), changes in the natural environment (50%) and high winds/tornadoes (49%)
• When asked to describe how they’ve been affected respondents told stories of their property, health, operations or lifestyles being impacted by extreme weather events (heatwaves, drought, flooding, tornadoes, ice storms), Lyme disease and increased winter temperatures
• Just over half (50%) say they are very prepared or somewhat prepared for the impacts of climate change. 31% say they are not prepared
• Taking steps to keep safe in the sun and keep homes cool were the most common actions that respondents are already taking followed by protecting against ticks and mosquitoes. Developing an emergency preparedness plan, checking in on neighbours during extreme heat events and protecting against ticks and mosquitoes were the most common actions that respondents are planning to do.

Input from the surveys was considered during the Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment and will be used to help inform the Climate Resiliency Strategy.

We look forward to hearing more from residents and stakeholders as we develop the Climate Resiliency Strategy. We encourage you to stay engaged and informed by:

• Signing up to the climate change e-newsletter
• Regularly checking this page for updates