The impacts of climate change on health and development in Canadian Arctic and sub-arctic communities in the twenty-first century: A systematic review

Abstract

Climate change in the arctic affects the movement and health of animals and the health and development of Inuit communities in Canada. We investigated such associations by performing a systematic review to find studies where community members reported changes in their communities attributed to climate change. In the 22 studies examined, we discovered that increased rainfall, storms, and erosion are likely causing greater infrastructure damage. As well, unpredictable and unstable weather has made travel difficult and dangerous along with thinning ice and changes in the timing of ice break-up and ice freeze-up. Lastly, a declining perceived health in wildlife, coupled with various obstacles in hunting, is a threat to the health and livelihoods of community members.