Climate change, well-being and human rights : Background paper on Climate change, well-being and human rights

As the evidence and knowledge of the physical effects of climate change continue to grow, the world is starting to dissect how those physical changes (e.g. water scarcity, sea-level rise, increased temperatures), both current and predicted, will intersect with society and economies and the potentially significant environmental and human impacts that will result. Of emerging interest are the potential impacts of climate change on the enjoyment of human rights and well-being. Weather and environmental degradation have, as one of multiple stressors, threatened lives and livelihoods throughout history, but what makes this interaction more relevant today is the growing evidence that greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions have contributed and will continue to contribute to long-term or permanent changes to our ecosystems and landscapes and will increase the frequency and severity of extreme events. This amplifies existing social risks and vulnerabilities and will therefore increase the pressures faced by many disadvantaged individuals and populations here in Canada and abroad.