Spotlight on Marine Conservation and Tick-Borne Disease Risks in Canada"

Welcome to the Globe Climate newsletter, where we focus on issues concerning climate change, environmental matters, and resource management across Canada. In this issue, we spotlight the efforts of renowned photographers Shane Gross and Cristina Mittermeier, who are using their powerful visuals to emphasize the significance of preserving our marine and freshwater ecosystems.

During a recent event in Toronto, Gross and Mittermeier shared the stage with journalists Jenn Thornhill Verma and Ryan MacDonald to discuss the influence of photography in driving environmental awareness. They explored reactions to iconic photographs and discussed current challenges in conservation efforts that require immediate public attention.

In other significant news, Indigenous groups in Ontario are expressing their concerns regarding new laws aimed at accelerating infrastructure projects, while a proposed water bill for First Nations is set to be presented despite resistance from the province. Moreover, LNG Canada has commenced its gas exports to Asia, while discussions continue on potential expansion projects. Reports, such as one from The Narwhal, highlight how the push to conserve Arctic sea ice affects Indigenous communities relying on these ecosystems.

Turning to a deeper examination of public health, we explore the increasing threat posed by ticks in Nova Scotia as warmer temperatures persist. Health science reporter Jennifer Yang emphasizes that as Canadian climates warm, tick populations are not only growing but expanding their range, impacting more communities. The South Shore of Nova Scotia has notably become one of the densest areas for blacklegged ticks, which carry Lyme disease.

As tick numbers rise, so do accounts of Lyme disease infections, growing dramatically from 522 reported cases in 2014 to over 5,000 in the previous year alone. Experts warn that Canada is warming at a pace quicker than previously predicted, which has allowed ticks to proliferate into new regions. Without an effective vaccine available yet, Canadians are resorting to alternative solutions, such as developing new pesticides that could mitigate the tick threat.

In related updates, members of a First Nation in Northern Ontario are returning home after being displaced by wildfires, and the River Seine in Paris has reopened for public swimming after a century. We also touch upon other climate-related insights spanning from the impact of political rhetoric on green initiatives to new resources available for sustainable investing.

Finally, we're excited to announce enhancements to The Climate Exchange, an interactive platform designed to address your most pressing climate queries, with answers to the first batch of submitted questions now available. We look forward to your feedback and encourage you to share this newsletter with others interested in climate issues.