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In less than 25 years, the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has intensified the global warming phenomenon that leads to climate change. Droughts, floods, and higher temperatures are threatening food crops, destroying habitat, threatening species, and increasing the incidence of disease.
All countries feel the effects of climate change; however, people living in poverty are the most vulnerable. As they lose their sources of food, fuel, shelter and income, their poverty deepens. Most are forced to live on vulnerable lands. As well, their own unsustainable resource use often contributes to the problem. Without the capital or expertise, the poor are unable to manage their own resources or protect themselves from the effects of climate change.
CIDA is working with
developing country partners
to protect livelihoods and
reduce vulnerability to the
impacts of climate change.
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The global community has responded to this growing threat with several key commitments to reduce greenhouse gases, including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. Canada’s commitment includes climate change as a major area of focus within CIDA’s program priority of environmental sustainability.
CIDA supports the efforts of its partners to address climate change and to meet their commitments under these and other agreements primarily through the Canada Climate Change Development Fund. This fund enables developing countries to adapt to climate change, reduce emissions, increase the vegetation that absorbs carbon dioxide, and raise research capacity and awareness within governments and among the general public about the importance of dealing with this critical issue.
Related CIDA Sites
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