Canada wildfires inflict brutal toll on tourism, other areas of economy

Wildfires in Canada’s Okanagan Valley Impact Tourism and Economy

Kelowna (Canada) (AFP) –

02/09/2023 – 03:43

Reading time: 4 min

Introduction

Joanna Schlosser, a resident of Kelowna, Canada, sought refuge from advancing wildfires at the winery where she works. However, the wildfires have caused a downturn in tourism and various other negative impacts on businesses and the Canadian economy.

Impact on Wineries and Tourism

Schlosser and her family were forced to evacuate their home due to the approaching inferno. They found temporary shelter at Quails’ Gate winery, along with other evacuees who had lost their homes. While none of the wineries in the region reported direct fire damage, they experienced a significant drop in revenue as tourists avoided the area during the peak month of August. The closure of Kelowna’s airport and main highway, as well as the cancellation of tasting tours, weddings, and other events at wineries, further contributed to the decline in business.

Broader Economic Impact

The wildfires have had a measurable impact on the Canadian economy, with more than 15 million hectares (37 million acres) scorched and 200,000 people displaced across the country. Forest fires have disrupted mining and oil facilities, idled lumber mills, and led to fishing bans. The road to Tofino, a popular tourist destination, was cut off. In the Okanagan Valley, smoke from the fires has blocked out the sun, delaying the ripening of apples in orchards.

Long-Term Economic Outlook

The annual cost of fighting wildfires in Canada is estimated at Can$1 billion (US$737 million). Climate impacts, such as increased frequency and intensity of wildfires, could halve Canada’s projected economic growth in the coming years. By 2030, the average annual losses from disasters are forecast to reach Can$15.4 billion. Insurance losses have already risen fivefold since 2009, and the number of catastrophic events and insurance payouts is expected to continue increasing.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The wildfires in Canada’s Okanagan Valley highlight the importance of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The impact on tourism and local businesses emphasizes the need for resilient and sustainable cities that can withstand and recover from natural disasters.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action – The increase in wildfires and their economic consequences underscore the urgency of taking action to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land – The destruction caused by wildfires highlights the importance of protecting terrestrial ecosystems and promoting sustainable land use practices.

It is crucial for Canada and other countries to prioritize these SDGs to build resilience, reduce the risk of future disasters, and ensure sustainable economic growth.

© 2023 AFP

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
   • Indicator: Revenue drop in wineries due to tourism downturn.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.5: By 2030, significantly reduce the number of deaths and the number of people affected and substantially decrease the direct economic losses relative to global gross domestic product caused by disasters, including water-related disasters, with a focus on protecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations.
   • Indicator: Economic impact of wildfires on the Canadian economy.

3. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
   • Indicator: Annual cost of fighting wildfires and projected economic growth impact due to climate impacts.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: france24.com

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