Topic Pages
Our topic pages introduce the reader to important and emerging environmental public health issues through a curated list of NCCEH and external resources. The most relevant resources have been selected to best guide the search for further information. Topic pages are reviewed and updated with new content periodically. These lists are not intended to be exhaustive, and the omission of any individual resource does not preclude it from having value.
Earthquakes result when tectonic forces cause sections of the crust to move suddenly against each other, sending out seismic waves that cause imperceptible to violent shaking on the surface. This…
Climate change is increasing the frequency, duration, and intensity of the number of very hot days in Canada. During heatwaves, the daytime and night-time average temperatures are projected to…
Drought is defined as an extended period of abnormally dry weather that depletes water resources for human and environmental needs. It is important to note that for drought to occur, the number of…
Global change due to factors such as climate change, conflict, migration, urbanization, and aging are expected to amplify the public health impacts of disasters. Psychosocial impacts refer to the…
Climate change is driving an increase in daily extreme precipitation in Canada, which when combined with other landscape factors, such as urbanization, deforestation, and loss of wetlands, can result…
Recreational waters such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and their associated beaches, attract large numbers of users engaging in primary contact activities (e.g., swimming, water skiing, surfing, paddle…
Public swimming pools, hot tubs, splash parks, wading pools, and other treated recreational water facilities are regulated at the provincial or territorial level with respect to design, construction…
Legionella is naturally occurring waterborne bacteria that can survive within building water systems and multiply under ideal conditions that include warm temperature (e.g., 25-45°C), lack of…
Lead is a naturally occurring toxic metal that can be harmful to human health. Health effects of lead exposure can include neurological, cardiovascular, renal, immunological, reproductive and…
The definition and regulatory oversight of small drinking water systems (SDWS) across Canada varies by provincial and federal jurisdictions. A small system may be defined by size, or by who owns and…