Canada announces $10 million to support investments in Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS)

PARIS, Dec. 1, 2015 /CNW/ - Today, speaking at the launch of the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS), the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced Canada's contribution of $10 million to support the improvement of early warning systems in some of the most vulnerable communities.

Canada's contribution will be delivered through the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to improve Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems in developing countries, particularly the small island developing states and least developed countries. These systems have been proven to reduce loss of life and economic hardship caused by meteorological hazards such as tropical cyclones, floods, severe storms, forest fires, and heat waves.

Today's announcement is part of Canada's historic pledge of $2.65 billion over the next five years to support developing countries' transition to low carbon economies and adaptation to the changing climate. This is the most significant Canadian climate finance contribution ever.

Quote

"Over 80% of worldwide natural disasters are climate-induced. Yet over 80% of the world's population does not have access to early warning systems that can help save lives. Better early warning systems, particularly for the most vulnerable countries like small island states, that are facing an increasing number of extreme weather and climate events caused by climate change, can make a real difference."
– The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Quick Facts

• Investments in weather forecasting technologies can lead to improved accuracy and timeliness of warnings, resulting in significant improvements for preparedness.
• Many countries in the developing world only have rudimentary early warning systems in place to assist their citizenry in preparing for extreme weather events.
• CREWS will effectively generate and communicate impact-based early warnings and deliver risk information for hazardous hydro-meteorological and climate events.

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SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada

Caitlin Workman, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 819-938-9436; Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-934-8008