Climate, community and you

Oxford County’s climate survey is open for feedback now until August 8

Oxford County is seeking public feedback on climate action now until August 8, 2025.

While conversations about climate often focus on global impacts, Oxford County is drawing attention to the local effects of changing climate on everyday life. The Oxford County Climate Survey asks residents for their opinions on climate and about the actions they are taking now to reduce their environmental impact.

Those who take part in the survey will have a chance to win one of five $50 gift cards for a local business. 

Results from the survey will help develop Oxford County’s first Climate Action Plan, expected for release this fall. This plan will identify the risks that are most urgent for Oxford County residents and bring forward proposals to help mitigate or manage these risks. Recommendations may include community-led resiliency measures and climate adaptation measures taken by the County, such as infrastructure planning. 

Work on Oxford’s Climate Action Plan is guided in part by the Ontario Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment, which details the wide-reaching impacts climate change will have on communities, critical infrastructure, economy and the natural environment. 

According to the provincial report, two of the largest climate-related risks for people living in southwestern Ontario are extreme heat and extreme precipitation, both of which are already being experienced and expected to increase in severity.

To take the Oxford County Climate Survey at Speak Up, Oxford! visit  www.speakup.oxfordcounty.ca/climate. 

Quick facts

• The term “climate” refers to average weather conditions over a long period of time, such as decades or years. This is different from weather conditions people may experience where they live.
  
  
• Oxford County’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan identifies “Enhancing Environmental Sustainability” as one of three foundational pillars, and includes the specific goal of developing a Climate Action Plan.
  
  
• The Climate Action Plan will be a living document with updates expected on a five-year basis to reflect up-to-date climate projections, new technology, and available funding.