From “climate change” to “climate catastrophes”

Posted 2025-07-15

In recent years, a subtle but far-reaching change has been taking place in the discourse of environmental experts. We no longer speak only of “climate change” – an expression that may seem abstract, almost neutral – but of “climate catastrophes”. This shift in language is no accident: it reflects a growing urgency and the accumulation of tangible impacts that we are already observing on our ecosystems, our economies and our health.

But while the word “catastrophe” can be frightening, it is not inevitable. On the contrary, many companies, particularly in Quebec and Canada, are choosing to turn this awareness into an opportunity. Because every action counts. Every innovation, every commitment to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, every adaptation project contributes to mitigating the effects of this global crisis.

Findings that call for action to limit climate catastrophes

The latest report from the European Environment Agency (EEA) paints a worrying picture: climate-related risks in Europe are increasing faster than expected. Floods, heat waves, droughts and biodiversity loss are on the increase, threatening infrastructure and local economies.

These findings resonate on this side of the Atlantic, where reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) remind us that inaction amplifies risks: public health, food safety, supply chain stability, everything is linked.

Data published in The Lancet Planetary Health reinforce this warning. The impact of extreme events on health – respiratory illnesses, heatstroke, the spread of infections – is very real, and could become one of the major public health challenges of the century.

SMEs on the front line of action

Faced with these facts, how can Quebec and Canadian SMEs take action without being overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenges? The answer lies in concrete, accessible and often profitable action.

Many of our companies have already turned the corner:

Energy optimization. By improving the energy efficiency of their buildings and processes, SMEs can reduce their operating costs and lower their carbon footprint at the same time.
Circular economy. By rethinking production to limit waste and promote reuse, local companies are turning constraints into competitive advantages.
Sustainable mobility. Solutions such as telecommuting, carpooling and fleet electrification can significantly reduce travel-related emissions.
Certification and communication. Many SMEs choose to have their efforts certified (via B Corp or Carboneutre, for example) to reinforce the confidence of their customers and partners.

Turning fear into solutions to reduce climate catastrophes

As scientist Sonia Seneviratne points out, “the seriousness of the situation should not paralyze us, but encourage us to act. What we are experiencing is not just a “climate catastrophe”, but an opportunity to rethink our business models, innovate, collaborate and be part of global change. Jean Jouzel, climatologist and former vice-president of the IPCC, agrees: “The more we act now, the fewer human, economic and environmental losses there will be.”

For Quebec and Canadian SMEs, this is a powerful message: let’s not underestimate the power of small and medium-sized actions. Every choice in favor of sustainability is a step towards resilience, and this resilience will be a major economic asset in the years to come.

Take action today to limit climate incidents

In the face of “climate catastrophe”, there is no magic wand. But there are concrete solutions and measurable results: reduced energy costs, local job creation, loyalty among environmentally-sensitive customers, contribution to broader sustainable development objectives.

Together, SMEs, local authorities and citizens, we can transform this language of urgency into a collective drive towards a more sober and fairer future.

To read other climate related news by Planetair, click here.