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.
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…
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…
Climate change is increasing the frequency, duration, and intensity of the number of very hot days over 30°C in Canada. During heatwaves, the daytime and night-time average temperatures are projected…
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…
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…
The frequency and intensity of Canadian wildfires is increasing due to the changing global climate, as well as long-standing forest management practices. Ever-worsening fire seasons impact…
The goal of any public health emergency is to help as many people as quickly as possible. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a new dimension to emergency management. Not only has COVID-19 made it…