Climate & Environment

The encompassing impact of our natural world

A changing climate and degraded natural environment directly impact public health, environmental stability, and economic prosperity – all of which contribute to a community’s ability to thrive and be well. Progress has been made, as can be seen in the data, but as we contend with the increasing impacts of climate change, we need to accelerate our efforts. 

We know that for individuals in our community who are facing systemic barriers, the impacts of a changing climate can be especially significant. When community planning, we need to think about how climate impacts people’s access to essential community elements like housing and transportation and we must work to ensure that children and young people understand and value the natural world globally and in their own backyards. We see the impacts of inequality manifesting in many ways. In the City of London, areas with lower economic influence often have reduced tree canopy coverage, resulting in fewer benefits compared to more affluent areas. People living in older houses may have challenges adapting their home to meet the challenges of the changing climate. By prioritizing climate and environmental action, we can create a healthier, more prosperous, and sustainable future for those living in London and Middlesex.

On this page:

• Over 2,300 species call Western University home

• More children in London are engaging with nature

• London’s greenhouse gas emissions return to pre-pandemic levels

• London’s transit ridership rebounding from pandemic levels

• City of London continues advancing sewer upgrades

• Stormwater overflow events are decreasing

By the Numbers

London’s greenhouse gas emissions return to pre-pandemic levels

In London, greenhouse gas emissions have begun rising again following the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, when lockdowns limited people’s ability to do everyday activities, like travelling, that contribute to climate change pollution. Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to worsening air quality, negative health outcomes, and the larger effects of climate change. 

Source: City of London

London’s transit ridership rebounding from pandemic levels

From an all-time low of 8.3 million at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, London’s transit ridership continues to rebound. A connected, robust, affordable, and well-used public transit system is critical to ensure everyone can access essentials like employment and food, and provide a viable transportation option that helps to reduce pollution related to climate change. Transit is a key enabler for a growing city, and its citizens, to thrive.

Source: London Transit Commission

City of London continues advancing sewer upgrades

Combined sewer systems, which carry rainwater and sewage in the same pipes, can be overwhelmed, causing the water to bypass sewage treatment systems resulting in untreated or partially treated waste going into the Thames River. Water polluted with sewage has the potential to harm wildlife and affect the drinking water of First Nations communities downstream.

Source: City of London

Stormwater overflow events are decreasing

Overflow events occur when the stormwater system cannot manage heavy rainfall during severe storms. While infrastructure improvements made by the City of London likely contributed to the reduced number of overflow events between 2021 and 2022, ongoing enhancements are crucial as climate change increases the severity and intensity of storms, including rainfall.