ClimateWest Forum: The benefits of early adaptation action (virtual)

This free, hybrid event will bring together ClimateWest’s past, current, and expanding network across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba from a wide range of sectors, communities, and perspectives. Presentations will focus on the benefits of taking action early to address climate impacts. Join us for the whole forum or tune in to the session(s) of your choice!

Registration: This event page is for virtual registration. If you would like to attend in-person, please visit our in-person event page.

Cost: Free

Interested in sponsoring this event? Email info@climatewest.ca for sponsorship packages!

Who should attend?

• Municipalities and municipal associations
• Indigenous communities and organizations
• Businesses interested in climate risk
• All levels of government
• Agricultural sector representatives and organizations
• Consulting firms
• Climate risk and resilience professionals
• Non-profit organizations

What can you expect?

• Hear from climate experts on the costs of climate change and natural infrastructure solutions from a prairie-perspective.
• Understand the benefits of taking early action on climate adaptation in terms of climate costs, and diverse perspectives on climate justice.
• Learn about the role of ClimateWest as the regional climate services hub for Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.
• Knowledge share with people from a wide range of sectors, communities, and perspectives.

What topics will be covered?

National Adaptation Strategy and Considerations for the Prairies

How will the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) influence and guide adaptation planning in the Prairie Provinces? This session will explore the NAS, the Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan and its new funding opportunities, and provide workshop attendees a better understanding of the commitments and objectives of the NAS.

Presentation by:

• Laniel Bateman, Director for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Policy, Environment and Climate Change Canada (pending confirmation)

The Costs of Climate Change

Why should we take action now? This session will explore historical, present and future costs of climate change in Canada.

Presentations by:

• Chris Rol, Manager and Senior Advisor, Climate Adaptation & Flood Policy, Insurance Bureau of Canada
• Ryan Ness, Adaptation Research Director, Canadian Climate Institute
• Richard Boyd, Director, Research and Economics, All One Sky Foundation

Natural Infrastructure Solutions

Making the case for nature-based solutions as a cost-effective adaptation measure. With a focus on the Prairies, this panel discussion will highlight how natural assets compare to traditional infrastructure. Panelists will explain how nature-based solutions can be developed with a changing climate in mind.

Presentations by:

• Joanna Eyquem, Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation
• Dimple Roy, International Institute for Sustainable Development
• Paige Englot, ALUS

Further details on topics and speakers will be released as they are confirmed. Please note that the agenda is subject to change.