International Day of Climate Action – October 24

The first International Day of Climate Action was organized in 2009 by the leading environmental organization 350.org. The goal of 350.org is to “fight for a world beyond fossil fuels'' to secure “a safe climate and a better future — a prosperous and equitable world built with the power of ordinary people.” In the spirit of that goal, on October 24, 2009, 350.org helped plan events in 181 countries, including marches, rallies, mountain climbs, tree plantings and underwater cabinet meetings. More than 4,000 demonstrations took place in the form of marches, rallies and public performances.

Fun fact

It is not a coincidence that October 24 is also United Nations Day. 350.org originally wanted the International Day of Climate Action to influence delegates attending COP15 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Copenhagen, Denmark. As we approach COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, it is worth looking back to where this day started and to think about how the purpose of the event is joining together global efforts to address greenhouse gas emissions from the local level.

Why we acknowledge the International Day of Climate Action

Acting together through HalifACT -  one of the most ambitious climate action plans in Canada. The plan outlines 46 actions grouped into three main themes: 

• decarbonize the economy;
• build resilient infrastructure; and 
• create prepared and connected communities.

We are making progress toward these goals, and regularly update the community with our HalifACT community update.

Did you know?

The Halifax Regional Municipality was ranked the 11th most sustainable city in the world in the 2023 Corporate Knights’ Sustainable Cities Index. This index is a useful measure of climate action because it evaluates sustainability based on water and air quality, public transit, energy systems and the efficiency of buildings. Our ranking is a testament to the municipality’s commitment to acting on the goals of our climate plan in these key areas.

A call to climate action

If we don’t act effectively to address climate change and stick with business as usual, we will see more flooding, wildfires, extreme heat and more frequent and intense hurricanes. Adapting to these impacts is also very important.

What we have learned through our engagements with Halifax Public Libraries is that residents are ready to take action. People described how they want to know more about what they can do to fight climate change, how they can rally their communities and how they can connect with other people and organizations who are doing this work.

Preparing for extreme weather and climate change impacts

Winter storms

Winter storms usually occur between December and March. Winter storms include snow, freezing rain, high winds and cold temperatures. The snow, ice and cold can be challenging, especially if you aren't used to it, and these conditions can put people at risk of injury or harm.

Extreme heat

Extreme heat events occur during the summertime (usually between July and September), when temperatures are high during the day and night for several days. People are at risk of overheating during an extreme heat event. Temperatures can be hotter in tall structures (like apartment and office towers) and in direct sunlight.

Hurricane and tropical storms

From June through November each year, Halifax is on the path of hurricanes traveling up the East Coast of North America. These storms can be powerful and destructive, with high winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and coastal storm surge. People can be at risk during these weather events.

Download the full guide

• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (ARABIC)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (ENGLISH)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (FRENCH)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (KISWAHILI)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (UKRAINIAN)

Protecting homes from climate impacts

The documents included below offer helpful tips on how to prepare your home for extreme heat, wildfires and severe weather events.

These guides were created by many organizations coming together to ensure that frontline communities are informed about climate impacts and equipped with tools to make them more resilient.

Learn more about emergency preparedness

For municipal emergency alerts and notifications, register at: 
halifax.ca/hfxalert

Follow storm warnings and weather alerts at Environment Canada:
https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/ns-19_metric_e.html

More information to help you prepare:
halifax.ca/emergency-preparedness