Adapting to Climate Change: An Introduction for Canadian Municipalities

Why Municipal Decision-Makers Need to Consider Climate Change

One of the greatest concerns is an expected increase in climate variability and in extreme weather, causing floods, droughts and storms (NRCan 2004). As the climate changes, it is anticipated that even small shifts in climate normals will have potentially large ramifications for existing infrastructure (Auld and McIver, 2005). This will affect municipalities large and small, urban and rural, and will have positive and negative implications for the various types of municipal infrastructure: built systems, e.g., roads and bridges; natural systems, e.g., watersheds and forests; and human systems, e.g., health and education.

Built systems are likely to endure greater exposure to extreme events in the future, resulting in increased demand for maintenance and upgrades. Energy transmission networks, such as towers and their supports, may suffer damage from severe windstorms, or ice storms. Water and sewage networks may need to accommodate more intense precipitation. Municipalities need infrastructure that can withstand future climate conditions to ensure it is dependable and maintain safety (for example, milder winters are likely to bring about more freeze-thaw cycles, which trigger pot-hole development on roads). On the other hand, changing weather conditions may have a positive impact, for example, lower snow-clearing costs in milder winters.

Natural systems are expected to adapt to shorter winters and earlier springs, which will alter ecosystems and species' lifecycles. Increased risk of pests, diseases and forest fires are likely to occur in a warmer climate. Rising urban temperatures and heat waves frequently cause smog and diminished air quality, both of which affect the health of plant and animal species. On the other hand, a milder climate could present new opportunities for tourism and recreation by extending the growing season for vegetation in parks and other recreational areas.

Human systems, such as welfare, social aid and medical systems, are likely to be affected by climate change, especially in resource- and tourist-based communities, which have a strong link between climate and economic prosperity. Demands on human systems are expected to increase in response to emergency management of extreme physical discomfort, life-threatening conditions and stress-related illness. For example, health services may need to accommodate vulnerable segments of the population during more frequent heat days. On the other hand, fewer cold snaps in winter are likely to signify fewer treatments of cold-related illnesses. Municipalities make investments in infrastructure that are required to last for many decades. Generally, infrastructure design is based on past climate conditions. However, given the climate changes expected over the next century, these historic conditions are no longer accurate indicators for planning, maintenance and upgrades. Municipal infrastructure needs to adapt to new climate risks to ensure safety and quality of life, as well as reduce long-term costs.

Some municipalities are facing particular challenges, such as northern communities where the magnitude of climate change is expected to be greatest, and Aboriginal communities where traditional ways of life, tied closely to the natural environment, remain important. Communities that rely on climate-related economies, such as agriculture, forestry and fisheries face significant risks.

Already, some downstream communities are more aware of reduced water supplies as glaciers melt; some cities are facing less snow days; and some coastal communities are witnessing more severe storms and greater erosion. But every municipality will be challenged by climate change as it affects municipal services, assets and infrastructure.

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