January 1, 2014

Canada in a Changing Climate: Sector Perspectives on Impacts and Adaptation


Over the past 5 years, our understanding of climate change impacts and adaptation in Canada has increased both as a result of new research and through practical experience. Key conclusions arising from this update to the 2008 assessment report ‘From Impacts to Adaptation: Canada in a Changing Climate’ include:

1. Canada’s climate is changing, with observed changes in air temperature, precipitation, snow and ice cover and other indicators. Further changes in climate are inevitable.

2. Changes in climate are increasingly affecting Canada’s natural environment, economic sectors and the health of Canadians.

3. Extreme weather events are a key concern for Canada and there is growing confidence that some types of extreme events will increase in frequency and/or intensity as the climate continues to warm.

4. Adaptation is accepted as a necessary response to climate change, complementing global measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation enhances the social and economic resilience of Canadians to climate change impacts.

5. Adaptation is occurring with increasing frequency and enhanced engagement. Continued action will help to build capacity, address information needs and overcome challenges.

6. Adaptation can sometimes turn risks into opportunities, and opportunities into benefits.

7. Collaboration and adaptive management are approaches that governments and industry are increasingly pursuing to advance adaptation.