Climate Change Science and Research

The Earth's climate is changing. Globally, this is evident in increasing average air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice and rising average sea level. In Canada, we are already seeing rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increases in certain types of hazardous weather, such as heat waves. In the Arctic, rising temperatures are thawing permafrost and shrinking the ocean’s ice cover. The international scientific community has determined that recent changes in many aspects of global climate have been primarily caused by the build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and that human activities are a major source of these gases.

Environment Canada is a national focal point for Canadian research on the climate system and the science of climate change. Our scientists investigate Canada's past, present and future climate to determine how our climate is changing, as well as the causes and effects of this change. In addition, we develop the science needed to understand the impacts of climate change on Canada, and how we can adapt to these changes.

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