Manitoba Climate Change Task Force - International Institute for ...

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MCCTF Report 2001 — Manitoba and Climate Change: Investing in our future
Manufacturing and Technology
Manitoba’s diverse manufacturing and industrial sector can anticipate a future
in which prices for fossil fuels will be higher and cooling costs will rise in
response to warmer ambient temperatures. Greater incidence of severe weather
events, and the general uncertainty surrounding the long-term impacts of
climate change, will increase investment and insurer risk. The competitiveness
of some industries may be reduced in response to climate change impacts in
other regions and countries.
Goods produced in Manitoba with clean hydroelectric power may prove to have
a competitive advantage in the emerging global economy that is sensitive to
imbedded greenhouse gas emissions in products. Markets for “clean” technology
may open and expand, such as in the area of hybrid/alternative fuel technology.
Demand for energy efficient products is also likely to increase. Manitoba is
well placed to respond to these changing market conditions due to the presence
of established businesses such as the Kraus Group, New Flyer Industries,
Mohawk and Loewen Windows. Other Manitoba companies could benefit from
participating in a national emissions trading system.
Health and Welfare
The impact of climate change on individual Manitobans could range from
health issues through socio-cultural effects to impacts on recreational activities.
Health-related impacts include higher incidence of heat stress and allergies, as
well as vulnerability to new diseases and pests. First Nations communities will be
particularly affected by changes to, or the loss of, traditional ways of life. Winter
sports lovers will have to cope with melting outdoor hockey rinks and the
increasing need to cool indoor rinks. Cottage owners may be faced with flooding
from heavy spring rains on still frozen lakes, followed by dramatically reduced
water levels in the summer.