Many municipalities across Canada are increasingly recognizing the importance of developing climate adaptation strategies to prepare for and build resilience to the impact of our changing Canadian climate.
This factsheet highlights how integrating an Indigenous lens and Indigenous knowledge into climate strategies can enhance resilience and strengthen environmental strategies, as well as contribute to broader goals related to Reconciliation. Undertaking these efforts ultimately builds more inclusive, respectful and sustainable communities for future generations.
Two-Eyed Seeing approach
The Two-Eyed Seeing approach is a key framework in the Indigenous Resilience Report that integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with Western science. This approach emphasizes using both perspectives—one eye viewing the world through Indigenous ways of knowing and the other through Western science. It creates a balanced, complementary method for addressing complex issues such as climate change, ensuring that neither knowledge system dominates the other, but rather they coexist and enhance decision-making together.
Work is underway across the country
A lack of awareness and understanding of Indigenous knowledge can make it difficult to develop inclusive climate strategies. Through its Indigenous Relations Office, the City of Calgary, AB, is providing its staff and citizens with information and education on Truth and Reconciliation. This initiative that underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives into municipal operations and, includes comprehensive staff training with a focus on developing cultural competency, with the aim of helping to ensure that climate strategies are inclusive and informed by Indigenous knowledge.
Other cities are working to overcome historical distrust through respectful engagement, honouring commitments and demonstrating a genuine willingness to learn. The City of Vancouver, BC’s City of Reconciliation initiative exemplifies how building trust and fostering genuine partnerships with Indigenous communities can create a foundation for meaningful Reconciliation. This initiative is integral to the city’s efforts to embed Reconciliation into the fabric of its governance and community relations.
The NWT Water Stewardship Strategy embraces the Two-Eyed Seeing approach by incorporating both Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods to manage and protect water resources. This strategy values traditional ecological knowledge for its deep-rooted connection to the land and waterways, while also utilizing scientific tools to monitor water quality and flow. Municipalities can learn from this by integrating Indigenous knowledge into their water management practices, fostering collaborative partnerships with local Indigenous communities to enhance stewardship and ensure sustainable resource management.
Understanding Indigenous knowledge systems
Indigenous knowledge systems are deeply holistic, emphasizing the interdependence of all living things and the importance of harmony between nature and humankind. These systems have evolved over generations and offer valuable insights into sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Integrating Indigenous knowledge into municipal planning can support strategies that prioritize long-term ecological health, community well-being and cultural preservation.
Consider these key points when incorporating Indigenous knowledge into your municipal planning:
Local ecosystems: Indigenous knowledge offers a deep understanding of and insight into local ecosystems, informed by generations of observation and experience.
Traditional ecological knowledge: Practices such as traditional land management and sustainable resource use, rooted in Indigenous ecological knowledge, promote biodiversity and the health of ecosystems.
Cultural heritage preservation: Engaging with Indigenous communities enriches planning and helps preserve and honour cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional practices, traditions and knowledge continue to thrive while also enriching the municipality’s cultural fabric.
Sustainability: Indigenous knowledge emphasizes a long-term ecological balance, focusing on sustainable practices that protect and nurture the environment.
Resilience: Indigenous strategies, tested and refined over centuries, enhance community resilience by fostering adaptability to environmental changes and challenges.
Community engagement: Collaborating with Indigenous communities fosters inclusive decision-making and enhances community cohesion.
Indigenous Peoples are applying their knowledge systems and traditional practices to address climate change impacts alongside modern scientific approaches. For example, the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan combines Indigenous wisdom with climate data to develop meaningful solutions. Tools like the Climate Atlas of Canada weave together Indigenous stories, climate science, and community perspectives, fostering adaptation and resilience through a blend of diverse knowledge systems.
Applying an Indigenous-inclusive lens
Adopting a holistic approach means recognizing the interconnectedness of social, environmental and economic factors, which can lead to more comprehensive planning processes. Such an approach requires meaningful engagement that respects and incorporates Indigenous rights, knowledge and cultural practices.
Using an Indigenous lens can strengthen municipal planning efforts in several ways, including:
Holistic perspective: Emphasizing the interconnection of social, environmental and economic systems to create well-rounded and integrated planning solutions.
Sustainability: Focusing on long-term ecological health and environmental stewardship rooted in Indigenous practices to prioritize the well-being of future generations.
Cultural respect: Honouring and integrating Indigenous traditions, values and practices into planning processes to foster cultural preservation and mutual respect.
Collaborative engagement: Encouraging ongoing dialogue, partnership and co-creation with Indigenous communities to ensure their active participation and leadership in decision-making processes.
Equity and inclusion: Committing to inclusive planning by integrating Indigenous voices, perspectives, and knowledge into all stages of decision-making to promote equity and justice.
Town of Sioux Lookout, Ontario
Lac Seul First Nation, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Municipality of Sioux Lookout, ON, has partnered with Lac Seul First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug through the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) to collaboratively pursue shared economic and community development goals. The partnership focuses on joint planning initiatives, such as the development of a Friendship Accord, which formalizes their commitment to working together. By integrating Indigenous knowledge into land-use and environmental planning, Sioux Lookout is building municipal strategies that are culturally inclusive and sustainable, benefiting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Building and maintaining respectful relationships
Municipalities may want to implement the following key steps when working to build and maintain respectful relationships with Indigenous communities:
Understanding Indigenous neighbours: Take the time to learn about the histories, cultures and knowledge systems of the neighbouring Indigenous communities. Building relationships rooted in mutual understanding helps ensure Indigenous practices and values are respected and integrated into municipal processes.
Engaging meaningfully: Engagement should start early and continue throughout the project or partnership. Meaningful engagement involves respecting Indigenous protocols and traditions as well as also meeting Indigenous communities where they are, whether that means physically visiting their communities or aligning with their schedules and priorities. This shows genuine respect and commitment.
Co-developing plans: True collaboration requires Indigenous representation at every stage of planning and decision-making. Indigenous voices must be not just consulted but actively included as co-creators of plans. This fosters a shared sense of ownership and helps to ensure Indigenous knowledge informs sustainable, culturally relevant outcomes.
Supporting capacity building: Providing resources training, and opportunities that build capacity in Indigenous communities (e.g., technical assistance, educational support, financial resources) can support Indigenous communities to fully participate in and benefit from municipal planning processes.
Reciprocating knowledge: Respectful relationships are reciprocal. As Indigenous communities share their knowledge and perspectives, municipalities should in turn provide opportunities, resources and support that benefit their Indigenous partners. This ensures a balanced exchange and shows appreciation for Indigenous contributions.
Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Township of Selwyn, Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan, County of Peterborough and Peterborough and Kawarthas Economic Development, ON
Measuring success and assessing impact are critical to ensuring that municipal strategies integrating Indigenous knowledge are effective and sustainable. Systematically evaluation provides valuable data that can be used to refine the approach and inform decisions, enhancing community well-being and ecological resilience.
Municipalities may find the following steps useful when assessing the impact of their strategies and projects:
Set clear objectives: Begin by defining specific, measurable objectives for the integration of Indigenous knowledge into the strategy or project. The objectives should reflect the desired community outcomes and the principles of Indigenous knowledge systems, in alignment with cultural, environmental and social priorities.
Use meaningful metrics: Develop and track metrics to assess the extent to which Indigenous knowledge has been integrated into each strategy or project. These could include the extent to which Indigenous values and practices are incorporated into planning, the percentage of municipal staff who complete cultural competency training, and the sustainability and longevity of partnerships with Indigenous communities. These metrics will help gauge the success of municipal efforts and identify areas for improvement.
Collect and analyze feedback: Regularly gather feedback from stakeholders, including Indigenous partners, community members and municipal staff. This feedback is crucial for understanding the real-world impact of the strategies and making necessary adjustments. Surveys, interviews and community consultations can all be used to capture diverse perspectives.
Adjust and improve continuously: Use insights from the metrics and feedback to refine the strategies and projects. Continuous improvement is essential to maintaining effective collaboration and ensuring strategies and projects remain responsive to the needs and values of the Indigenous communities and municipalities. Over time, being flexible and adaptive helps build stronger, more resilient partnerships.
Incorporating Indigenous knowledge into municipal planning and climate adaptation strategies is not only a path toward more sustainable and resilient communities but also a critical step in fostering meaningful Reconciliation. Continuous engagement, capacity building and reciprocal relationships are key to achieving these shared goals. By committing to building more inclusive relationships with Indigenous communities, municipalities are better positioned to ensure their efforts are truly impactful and enduring.
Tanya Tourangeau, a proud Dene woman and founder of Tanya T Consulting | Reconciliation Strategist | Canada provided her expertise as a Reconciliation strategist in the writing of this factsheet, and FCM thanks her for her insights.
MAMP was designed to help Canadian municipalities strengthen their infrastructure investment decisions based on reliable data and sound asset management practices. This eight-year, $110-million program was funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It was implemented in partnership with municipal, provincial and territorial associations and other key stakeholders.
Building meaningful relationships between municipalities and First Nation communities can contribute to Reconciliation, enhance the well-being and economic health of communities, and lead to more equitable approaches to governance. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada defines Reconciliation as:
An ongoing process of establishing and maintaining respectful relationships. A critical part of this process involves repairing damaged trust by making apologies, providing individual and collective reparations, and following through with concrete actions that demonstrate real societal change.
Despite progress over the past number of years, significant challenges remain in fostering equitable and respectful relationships between municipalities and Indigenous communities. Historical injustices, a lack of genuine consultation and insufficient recognition of Indigenous sovereignty and rights are key obstacles. Each must be addressed to build effective and sustainable government-to-Nation relationships.
This factsheet outlines principles, strategies and examples of successful government-to-Nation relationships, all of which recognize Indigenous communities as equal, sovereign partners.
Many municipalities are embracing Reconciliation
The City of Regina, SK, established an Indigenous procurement policy, with a goal of having a minimum of 20 percent of the total value of city procurement contracts being held by Indigenous vendors. Regina’s approach to economic Reconciliation is guided by an Indigenous Procurement Advisory Committee.
The City of Montreal, QC’s 2020-2025 Strategy for Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples comprises seven objectives, including the development of a government-to-government relationship in city institutions by recognizing Indigenous governments as privileged partners in regional dialogue. The strategy also recognizes Indigenous civil society and its organizations as necessary actors in discussions as well as in the search for solutions and decision-making about urban issues that concern them.
The City of Edmonton, AB, entered a relationship with Enoch Cree Nation and signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining their intent to build a new relationship as neighbours. This partnership has led to collaborative efforts in areas such as recreation, land-use planning and public transit, enhancing regional prosperity and community well-being.
The Commitment to Indigenous Peoples, demonstrated leadership by engaging in meaningful partnerships with local Indigenous communities. This includes joint economic initiatives, cultural events and regular consultation meetings that foster a collaborative and respectful relationship.
The City of Kenora, ON, has placed its land acknowledgement that it is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Métis at the forefront of its website. Recognizing the historical land base of the Wauzhushk Onigum, Niisaachewan and Washagamis Bay First Nations, shows Kenora’s commitment to Reconciliation and partnership with its Indigenous neighbours.
Building government-to-Nation relationships
Municipalities that wish to advance their relationships with Indigenous communities may wish to consider how the following essential considerations, core principles and structural of partnerships might strengthen their Reconciliation work.
Essential considerations
Government-to-Nation relationships must acknowledge Indigenous communities as sovereign partners.
Successful relationships require genuine consultation, shared decision-making and cultural sensitivity.
Long-term engagement and continuous collaboration are crucial to sustainable partnerships.
Core principles of Reconciliation
Respect: Recognizing the inherent value and dignity of Indigenous cultures.
Recognition: Acknowledging Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
Partnership: Engaging in meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities.
“Understanding and educating is the biggest part of Truth and Reconciliation. Fighting prejudice. Few people know the contribution that First Nations have made to the development of Canada."
~Chief Lance Haymond, Kebaowek First Nation
Structural partnerships
Collaborate with local Indigenous leaders and organizations.
Form partnerships and coalitions with Indigenous groups.
Establish municipal Reconciliation committees.
Set up Indigenous community advisory boards or committees.
Create informal partnership tables and spaces for discussion and cooperative action
Examples and practical steps to foster Reconciliation efforts
Educate municipal staff and residents about Indigenous rights and history
The City of Yellowknife, NWT, mandates training for all municipal staff on the history and legacy of residential schools. This helps ensure that city staff are informed about Indigenous histories and the impacts of colonialism, promoting a culture of understanding and respect. Some valuable resources that can foster a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous rights and history include:
University of Alberta Indigenous Canada: A exploring the history and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, from an Indigenous viewpoint. It's a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to broaden their knowledge.
Reconciliation Saskatoon, Be A ConnectR: Provides opportunities to learn about Indigenous peoples’ past and present experiences. The site offers various paths to start a learning journey.
Royal Alberta Museum: An extensive collection of resources that includes reading lists, films, documentaries, radio programs, podcasts, Indigenous language apps and other materials.
Start with respect and understanding to forge and strengthen long-term, sustainable relationships with Indigenous communities
The Declaration of Mutual Commitment and Friendship: A joint initiative by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres that provides a framework for collaboration between municipalities and Indigenous communities. The declaration emphasizes Reconciliation and sets a provincial and federal standard for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities in urban and rural areas.
The Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI): This initiative partners First Nations with neighbouring municipalities to develop relationships and create joint economic development projects. More than 20+ partnerships between First Nations and municipalities have been established since 2013. Each was guided by the “stronger together” approach, and this has been translated into a practical toolkit that offers steps to connect with Indigenous neighbours and collaborating on joint initiatives.
Engage in inclusive consultation with Indigenous neighbours and residents
The City of Hamilton, ON, has implemented a robust consultation process with Indigenous communities, outlined in its Urban Indigenous Strategy report. The process includes regular meetings and dialogue with Indigenous leaders to ensure their active participation in city planning and development initiatives, reflecting a commitment to ongoing and meaningful engagement.
The following approaches can build meaningful and inclusive consultation with Indigenous communities:
Establish regular consultation meetings: Schedule regular meetings with Indigenous leaders and community members to discuss ongoing projects, community needs and potential areas for collaboration. This opens ongoing dialogue and opportunities for active participation in decision-making processes.
Develop a consultation protocol: Create a written protocol that outlines how consultations will be conducted, including who will be involved, the frequency of meetings and the methods of communication. The protocol should be developed in partnership with Indigenous communities to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.
Implement community liaison roles: Designate community liaison officers who are responsible for maintaining open lines of communication between the municipality and Indigenous communities. These officers can help facilitate consultations, address concerns and ensure that the voices of Indigenous residents are heard and considered in municipal decisions.
Build capacity on both sides to enable full participation of Indigenous communities in municipal projects
The City of Thunder Bay, ON, has partnered with Fort William First Nation to conduct an Indigenous Economic Impact Analysis. Developed in collaboration with the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission, this initiative aims to assess and enhance the economic contributions of Indigenous communities in the region.
The following capacity-building approaches can contribute to effective and sustainable collaboration:
Resources and training: Offer resources, training programs and workshops to enhance the skills and knowledge of municipal and Indigenous community members. Edmonton’s Indigenous Relations Office develops community capacity-building projects that include training and workshops focused on topics such as governance, leadership development and project management. It offers technical support and expertise to Indigenous communities to help them participate more fully in municipal projects. Activities can include assistance with infrastructure development, environmental assessments or other technical areas. The City of Vancouver, BC, has partnered with local Indigenous communities to provide technical assistance to develop housing projects, offering expertise in topics such as urban planning, architectural design and construction management. The goal is to support Indigenous-led housing initiatives that meet the needs of Indigenous residents.
Reconciliation action plan
Concrete action is needed to advance Reconciliation efforts and strengthen relationships between municipalities and Indigenous communities. A Reconciliation action plan can be the foundation for this work.
The following questions can be helpful in guiding the development of a municipal Reconciliation action plan.
Current initiatives: What Reconciliation efforts are currently underway in the municipality?
New initiatives: What are one or two initiatives that the municipality might commit to right now?
Steps to implementation: What three steps might the municipality undertake to implement these new initiatives?
Tanya Tourangeau, a proud Dene woman and founder of Tanya T Consulting | Reconciliation Strategist | Canada provided her expertise as a Reconciliation strategist in the writing of this factsheet, and FCM thanks her for her insights.
MAMP was designed to help Canadian municipalities strengthen their infrastructure investment decisions based on reliable data and sound asset management practices. This eight-year, $110-million program was funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It was implemented in partnership with municipal, provincial and territorial associations and other key stakeholders.
Factsheet: Advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in municipal service delivery
Serving residents better through inclusive policies and approaches
Considering principles of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as core aspects of municipal planning and service delivery can increase social cohesion and fairness for all residents.
This factsheet shares definitions and benefits that can inform local governments who are in the early stages of incorporating EDI principles and considerations into municipal plans.
What are equity, diversity and inclusion?
Equity is a principle and process that promotes fair conditions for all persons to fully participate in society. In contrast with equality, equity recognizes that while all people have the right to be treated equally, not everyone experiences equal access to resources, opportunities, or benefits. Equity based initiatives, strategies, or considerations address specific needs, barriers, and accommodations to ensure groups have equal access and opportunity to participate in all aspects of society.
Diversity refers to a wide range of qualities and attributes that can apply to a person, a group or a community. These include differences in ability, age, sex, gender identity, language, race, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status and others.
Working effectively with diverse populations means recognizing differences and acknowledging how they shape a person and affect their lived experiences and opportunities. It also means cultivating a culture and practice that values and sees diversity as a strength.
Inclusion refers to creating, fostering and sustaining systems, practices and conditions that enable people with diverse backgrounds and identities to feel respected, valued and have a sense of belonging. By embracing diversity, inclusion creates fair, equitable, healthy and high-performing organizations and communities, where all individuals feel engaged and motivated, and their contributions are valued.
While equity, diversity and inclusion are distinct concepts, they are closely related. When they are woven together, more equitable, fair impacts and outcomes are likely to result.
Why is EDI relevant to municipal service delivery?
Consider a few statistics exploring why incorporating the needs of all residents into municipal planning is necessary.
In Toronto, black men are three times more likely to be stopped by police than other racial groups.
Black women in Canada are three times less likely than their non-racialized counterparts to have access to a family doctor.
During Vancouver’s 2021 heat dome event, the majority of deaths were among people who were elderly, had a disability, lived in poorer neighbourhoods or lived alone.
How does incorporating EDI into municipal planning benefit communities?
Incorporating EDI principles into municipal planning can:
Strengthen social cohesion: Promoting EDI principles fosters a sense of belonging for all residents, regardless of their race, ethnicity, ability, sex, gender, background or other factors. This can lead to stronger social cohesion within communities, reduce tensions among communities and promote harmony.
Improve public services: EDI initiatives can help identify and address disparities in access to public services such as education, healthcare, housing and transportation. By distributing services fairly and equitably and maintaining infrastructure assets to meet the service needs of diverse communities, local governments can enhance the well-being of all residents and create a more just society.
Increase economic growth: Inclusive policies can stimulate economic growth by tapping into the talents and skills of diverse populations. When individuals feel valued and have equal access to opportunities, they are more likely to contribute to the local economy through entrepreneurship, innovation and productivity.
Enhance public safety: Addressing discrimination and inequality can contribute to safer communities. For instance, promoting trust and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and marginalized communities can improve public safety outcomes and reduce crime rates.
Support resilience and adaptation: Inclusive communities tend to be more resilient and better able to adapt to shocks and challenges. Harnessing the collective strength of diverse perspectives and experiences allows communities to better respond to crises, reduce risks and build sustainable futures for all.
Increase democratic participation: EDI initiatives can increase civic engagement and democratic participation by including and valuing all voices in decision-making. This leads to more representative governance and policies that reflect the needs and priorities of the entire community.
Reduce legal risk: Implementing EDI initiatives helps local governments comply with laws and regulations, reducing the risk of lawsuits and legal liability associated with discriminatory practices. It can also protect the local government’s reputation and standing within the community.
MAMP was designed to help Canadian municipalities strengthen their infrastructure investment decisions based on reliable data and sound asset management practices. This eight-year, $110-million program was funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It was implemented in partnership with municipal, provincial and territorial associations and other key stakeholders.
Connect and Collaborate with Communities of Practice
Peer-driven learning that supports municipal climate adaptation work
GMF’s Climate Adaptation Communities of Practice bring together municipal staff, elected officials and partner organizations who are working to build climate resilience in their communities. These free, member-driven groups offer expert-led content, peer examples, and access to tools and resources that support climate adaptation planning and project implementation.
What free membership offers
Hands-on workshops and facilitated discussions
Expert and peer insights, including case examples and real-world experiences
Peer support to address real climate adaptation challenges
Access to a shared Teams channel with session recordings, presentations and resources
Opportunities to shape session topics and share your community’s needs
Pre-scheduled virtual sessions so you can plan in advance
Municipalities across Canada face common climate risks, capacity pressures and resource constraints. A Community of Practice offers a structured way to exchange knowledge, compare approaches and strengthen local adaptation work while reducing duplication of effort.
By participating you can:
Build confidence in planning and project decisions through shared learning
Reduce the time spent searching for tools, precedents, or comparable examples
Better understand how others are approaching risk assessments, adaptation planning and implementation
Access knowledge that supports both immediate needs and long-term resilience
Membership is free and designed to support communities of all sizes.
How do our Communities of Practice work?
Communities of Practice meet every two months for virtual sessions that combine expert insights, member presentations, facilitated discussions and practical activities. Sessions focus on real municipal challenges and highlight approaches being used across Canada.
Between sessions, members can:
Access materials through a dedicated Teams channel
Continue conversations and share resources with peers
Review session recordings and presentation decks
Sessions are offered in both English and French.
Sessions are offered in both English and French.
Which Community of Practice is right for you?
We offer two climate adaptation Communities of Practice to support municipalities at different points in their climate adaptation work.
Climate-Ready Plans and Processes Community of Practice
Designed for municipalities in the early stages of adaptation, focusing on developing strategies, plans and methodologies.
Topics you’ll focus on:
Forming cross-functional teams and gaining council alignment
Developing climate risk and impact assessments
Creating adaptation plans and prioritization frameworks
Integrating adaptation into asset management, land-use planning and municipal systems
Engaging stakeholders, rightsholders and community partners
Adaptation in Action Community of Practice
For municipalities preparing or implementing adaptation projects that reduce community climate risks.
Topics you’ll focus on:
Project initiation: Moving from risk assessments and plans to selecting priority projects
Note:While we encourage early applications to take advantage of the full year of networking and peer learning, registrations are accepted on an ongoing basis. CoP cycles renew each April, and early registration allows members to benefit from the full year of programming.
You are welcome to register for both the Climate-Ready Plans and Processes CoP and the Adaptation in Action CoP.
Are you looking to strengthen your municipality's climate adaptation work?
If you are applying or preparing for Adaptation in Action funding through the Green Municipal Fund’s Local Leadership for Climate Adaptation initiative, you can benefit from free coaching from climate adaptation experts to support your project design and implementation.
What is Adaptation in Action coaching?
Adaptation in Action coaching empowers municipalities with expert guidance, ensuring your climate adaptation projects are effective, equitable and resilient. Tailored coaching is available to help you navigate the complexities of climate adaptation implementation with the latest information and consideration, so your projects are successful and inclusive.
Our coaching aims to deliver up to 10 hours of personalized coaching sessions per municipality, project or team, tailored to help you navigate and succeed in your climate adaptation projects.
Benefits of coaching:
Tailored, on-demand expert support
Our coaching is designed to maximize the impact of your climate adaptation projects by providing personalized support tailored to your community's specific needs. Coaching helps ensure that your projects are effective, equitable and resilient.
Expertise you can trust
Our coaches are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in key areas of climate adaptation. They bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges municipalities face and are fully equipped to guide you through them.
Free of charge
These services are offered at no cost to participating municipalities. Our priority is to ensure you have access to the resources you need to make a lasting impact.
Areas of expertise
Eligible municipalities can access free expert guidance in the following areas. Expand each section to learn more about our expert coaches, their areas of expertise, and how they can support your climate adaptation initiatives.
Indigenous Knowledge and Engagement Methods
What this coaching will help you achieve:
Advancing Indigenous rights through climate adaptation aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
Applying a holistic Indigenous lens to adaptation planning, grounded in Michi Saagiig Nishnabeg rights, culture and spirituality.
Exploring Indigenous-led adaptation, Two-Eyed Seeing, and bridging Western and Indigenous knowledge systems.
Strengthening respectful, rights-based engagement approaches and supporting early and ongoing collaboration with Indigenous communities while honouring governance structures, knowledge sovereignty, protocols and culturally appropriate ways of knowing.
Coaches
Gary Pritchard, Chief Executive Officer, 4 Directions of Conservation Consulting Services
Gary is the Chief Executive Officer of 4 Directions of Conservation Consulting Services and a member of Curve Lake First Nation. With experience working with nearly 300 Indigenous communities across North America, he brings expertise in Indigenous-led conservation, Two-Eyed Seeing in ecological monitoring, capacity building, and bridging Western and traditional sciences.
Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion
What this coaching will help you achieve:
Embedding Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion (AREI) principles into the design and implementation of adaptation projects.
Identifying systemic barriers and inequities that shape climate vulnerability, particularly for equity-deserving and historically marginalized communities.
Applying an AREI lens across project stages, prioritizing lived experience and developing practical tools and guiding questions that promote inclusive, transparent and accountable adaptation actions with more equitable and lasting outcomes.
Coaches
Gabby Zuniga, Principal Consultant, Inclusive Kind
Gabby is the founder of Inclusive Kind, focusing on advancing equity and inclusion across institutions and communities. She brings decades of expertise in driving systemic change to create environments where everyone can thrive.
Erin Walker, DEI Consultant, Inclusive Kind
Erin is a leader in advancing equity and inclusion across institutions and communities. With extensive experience, she specializes in driving transformative change to foster environments where everyone can succeed.
Inclusive Engagement and Community Collaboration
What this coaching will help you achieve:
Nicole Armos, Associate Director, Knowledge & Practice, Simon Fraser University Centre for Dialogue
Nicole leads the Centre for Dialogue’s research, knowledge exchange and capacity building initiatives. With over a decade of experience supporting local, provincial and federal public engagement projects, she advances innovative and equitable approaches to participatory democracy.
Michelle Bested, Associate Director, Engagement and Social Enterprise, Simon Fraser University Centre for Dialogue
Michelle has led the consulting services team since 2019. She works with partners across Canada to design inclusive public and stakeholder engagement initiatives on issues such as housing and climate change. With a background in international cooperation and degrees from the London School of Economics and the University of Ottawa, she is passionate about fostering meaningful, inclusive dialogue.
Project Management
What this coaching will help you achieve:
Strengthening the planning, implementation and evaluation of climate adaptation initiatives.
Defining scope, timelines, roles, governance structures, and performance indicators to ensure projects are delivered effectively and sustainably.
Gaining practical tools for budgeting, funding identification, risk management and internal coordination.
Enhancing project structures and decision-making processes, helping teams deliver adaptation outcomes on time, on budget and with measurable impact.
Coaches
Dr. Chúk Odenigbo, Environmental Scientist, Tamarack Institute
With over 10 years of experience in bilingual community engagement and project management with an anti-racism lens, Chúk has worked conducting environmental impact assessments. This technical expertise, combined with his leadership in social impact projects, positions him as a key player in helping municipalities design sustainable and resilient climate solutions.
Technical Solutions
What this coaching will help you achieve:
Identifying and implementing effective technical climate adaptation measures, including grey, green and hybrid infrastructure.
Assessing climate risks, analyzing feasibility and selecting context-appropriate engineering and nature-based solutions.
Exploring innovative and nature-positive approaches that enhance resilience while ensuring durable, technically sound outcomes.
Providing support tailored to municipal needs, drawing on multidisciplinary expertise to strengthen long-term sustainability.
Harris is an environmental and sustainability professional with over 15 years of experience developing and implementing strategies for corporate and operational aspects of climate change adaptation, GHG emissions reductions, water management and overall environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.
Amanda McKay, P.Eng., Project Manager and Main Contact, Onterris
Amanda is a senior water resources engineer with over 12 years of consulting experience specializing in assessing and mitigating climate change effects on hydrology, hydraulics, and environmental water management. She has led and contributed to a wide range of projects across Canada, including flood risk studies, watershed management, river restoration, stormwater management (SWM), and environmental assessments.
The rest of the team is also from Onterris, with expertise in water resources, ecology, engineering and climate risk, supporting project delivery, including:
David Van Vliet, Service Director, Climate Risk and Strategic Services
Nicholas Krygsman, Service Director, Eastern Water Resources and Principal Civil/Water Resources Engineer
Mariëtte Pushkar, Principal Fluvial Geomorphologist
Shari Muscat, Service Director, Eastern Ecology
Isabelle Filion, Senior Engineer
Daron Abbey, Principal Hydrogeologist
Fabio Tonto, Senior Engineer
Who is eligible for coaching?
Coaching services are available to municipalities that are applying or preparing for Adaptation in Action funding, including:
Municipalities that are applying or preparing for Adaptation in Action funding can express their interest in coaching. To provide insights on your needs and project, you will complete an online form. This form serves a dual purpose: it signals your interest in coaching and helps us understand your project’s specific needs.
Step 2: Co-develop your coaching plan
Based on the needs identified in your project, FCM staff will collaborate with you to co-create a tailored coaching plan. This personalized learning journey may involve one or more coaches, depending on your specific context and needs. The goal is to ensure that the path forward reflects your priorities and responds to your municipality’s specific needs.
Step 3: Begin your coaching sessions
Book your coaching sessions at your convenience. Sessions will be conducted virtually, providing flexibility for your team.
Step 4: Implement and succeed
With the guidance of your coaches, you’ll be better equipped to implement your project successfully, overcoming challenges and achieving your climate adaptation goals. Throughout your coaching experience and at the end of the coaching sessions, we will seek your feedback to ensure the experience is valuable and to help us improve our services for future participants.
Cost
Completely Free
The Adaptation in Action Coaching Services are provided at no cost to participating municipalities. Our mission is to empower you to take meaningful climate action without financial barriers.
SCC 2027: Plan your trip
Access travel and accommodation discounts for your trip to FCM's Sustainable Communities Conference 2027 in Ottawa, Ontario.
Plan your trip to Ottawa for FCM’s Sustainable Communities Conference (SCC) 2027.
FCM has secured exclusive discounts for attendees travelling to and from Ottawa for the conference. Discounts are available with Air Canada, WestJet, Porter Airlines and VIA Rail. We also recommend checking for available seat sales from other reputable transportation providers.
Please note that all delegates are responsible for making their own travel arrangements.
By air
For individuals travelling by air, Ottawa International Airport (YOW) is located approximately 15 km from The Westin Ottawa. It is served by major airlines offering daily non-stop flights from Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg and other airports.
For those travelling by train, Ottawa Train Station is the nearest station to The Westin Ottawa, approximately 5 km away. VIA Rail offers service to destinations such as Toronto, Montréal, Halifax, Kingston and many other cities.
FCM has arranged hotel accommodations at The Westin Ottawa for delegates attending SCC 2027. See below for hotel rates and instructions for booking your room.
Rooms in the SCC 2027 hotel block are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reservations must be made by individual guests, who are responsible for all charges.
Each reservation must be made under a unique name. Multiple rooms cannot be reserved under one name.
The rates shown are the lowest available rates in the SCC 2027 room block.
The reservation deadline is January 11, 2027.
Guests staying at the SCC 2027 hotel will receive complimentary Wi-Fi in their rooms.
Non-refundable deposit
All reservations at the SCC 2027 hotel require a non-refundable deposit equal to one night’s room rate and applicable taxes at the time of reservation.
If you cancel your reservation at any time, the deposit will be forfeited. This policy applies regardless of the hotel’s standard cancellation policy. For more information or assistance, contact hotels@fcm.ca
The Westin Ottawa
Traditional room, single or double occupancy: $299 plus taxes
Deluxe Parliament View room, single or double occupancy: $359 plus taxes
Suites, single or double occupancy: $509 and up, plus taxes
Additional person: $40 plus taxes
Group name: FCM’s 2027 Sustainable Communities Conference
Third-party calls or emails about SCC 2027 hotel bookings
If you receive a phone call or email inviting you to reserve a hotel room in Ottawa during SCC 2027 from a company other than FCM, please be aware that the third party is not affiliated with FCM.
We cannot guarantee that the rooms or rates being offered are legitimate. We discourage delegates from providing personal information, including credit card numbers, to these companies.
Valid information about SCC 2027 hotel accommodations will only be sent from an fcm.ca email address or directly from the hotel if you already have a reservation.
For more information or assistance, contact hotels@fcm.ca.
Register for FCM's Sustainable Communities Conference 2027
At the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Sustainable Communities Conference (SCC), discover how municipalities are creating the conditions for prosperity—including by providing climate-resilient infrastructure, reliable local energy systems, affordability and protection from extreme weather.
Join hundreds of local leaders and sustainability experts from across Canada at SCC, taking place in Ottawa, Ontario, on February 8-11, 2027.
Media outlets who wish to participate in the conference must contact FCM’s Media team.
SCC’s registration is sponsored by Co-operators & Addenda Capital.
Important note
You will register using a form hosted on a secure third-party website. After completing your registration, you will receive a confirmation email. The confirmation email provides access to your delegate portal, where you will be able to go back and edit your registration and add a companion (this email also contains a registration barcode needed to access your conference badge).
As a full conference participant, you get access to:
all sessions, workshops and plenaries
the Industry Showcase and Indigenous Market
daily breakfasts, refreshments and lunches
all evening receptions
other networking opportunities
the event app
Participation in training sessions and study tours must be purchased in advance (more information below).
Registration fees
Registration type (Full conference)
Early Bird (until December 17th)
Regular (as of December 18th)
FCM MEMBER
Municipal / Affiliate
Elected official
Staff
A discount rate is available to Indigenous communities and to rural, remote and/or small communities (population under 10,000).
Registration for study tours and training sessions is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To attend study tours and training sessions, be sure to purchase the specific add-on.
Group registration and discounts
A group rate is available to FCM-member municipalities only, for 3 or more attendees being registered at the same time. Please contact the registration desk prior to starting your registration, to receive a personalized code.
A discount rate is available to Indigenous communities and to rural, remote and/or small communities (population under 10,000). Please contact the registration desk prior to starting your registration to confirm eligibility and receive a personalized discount code.
Registered delegate’s rights and privileges
A confirmed registration entitles the registered delegate to all the rights and privileges associated with attendance to the Conference as described on the Conference website.
The rights and privileges are granted personally to the registered delegate and cannot be shared with other individuals, nor can another delegate be substituted after the start of the conference. Delegates may substitute another person from their organization to attend in their place up to 24 hours before the start of the conference. To substitute a new named delegate for a registered delegate, please send FCM an email to request a substitution. If a registered delegate is unable to find a substitute to take his or her place, the cancellation policy applies.
Early-bird registration
Early-bird registration ends December 17, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET).
Payments
Registration fees must be paid in full by credit card (VISA, MasterCard or American Express) at the time of registration.
Carbon offset fees
In keeping with FCM’s efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its events, all registrations automatically include an optional carbon offset fee to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from air travel to the conference. The fee is calculated based on a return flight from the most populous city in your province to Ottawa. 100% of this fee will be paid to Carbonzero and invested in a Canadian project that permanently retires GHG emissions. The fee is optional and should you wish to opt out, simply remove the check mark from your selections during the registration process. You will also be able to remove it by editing your selections before completing the payment.
Registration confirmation
An email confirmation will be sent once registration has been completed and fully paid online. From your attendee profile, you will be able to register a companion and print a copy of your registration invoice.
Cancellation policy
If you need to cancel your registration for the Conference, you must do so in writing by sending us an email. Cancellation requests will NOT be accepted by any other means. Cancellation fees will be applied to conference registration, passes and add-ons.
Refund schedule and policy
The amount of your refund will depend on when we receive your notice of cancellation. Please consult this schedule for refund amounts:
Notice of cancellation received
Refund
By December 17, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET)
100%
Between December 18, 2026, and January 14, 2027 (11:59 p.m. ET)
50%
On or after January 15, 2027
No Refund
For cancellations received before January 14, refunds will be credited to you on the original credit card used for payment. The following information will appear on the credit card statement once the refund is completed: FCM-FED CND MUN.
After January 15, 2027, refunds will be considered for medical or personal emergencies only. Please send us an email to request a refund due to an emergency. For medical emergencies, you must attach a letter from your doctor. The deadline to submit these requests is February 25, 2027.
We do not issue a refund or credit for portions of the conference which you did not attend. Delegates who do not attend meals or social events included in the registration fee will not receive a refund equivalent to the cost of the event, even if they were not in attendance for this portion of the conference.
Canadian municipalities are responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure that provides essential services to residents and businesses. To deliver services consistently and reliably, local governments must proactively manage their assets, as a reactive approach to repairing and replacing infrastructure can lead to higher overall costs and lapses in service delivery. A long-term financial plan can help your organization shift from reactive to proactive asset management.
Below you will find:
Resources that describe the benefits of long-term financial planning for municipal asset management
Tools to help you develop effective long-term financial strategies for funding infrastructure services
Guidance on embedding levels of service, lifecycle costing, generational equity and climate resilience into long-term financial planning
Video: The benefits of long-term financial planning
From minimizing asset lifecycle costs to managing the financial impacts of climate change, long-term financial planning can help you meet community needs today and in the future. This video explores these benefits and more alongside key examples.
Tools for developing a long-term financial plan for asset management
Are you ready to take the next step on your long-term financial planning journey? Use this suite of tools.
How levels of service and lifecycle costing inform long-term financial planning
In this guide, you’ll learn how levels of service and lifecycle costing inform long-term financial planning, and some ways that social equity and climate resilience goals can be embedded into this process. You’ll find tips, strategies, and examples that shed light on what contributes to an effective long-term financial plan for asset management.
Guides, templates, tools and more to help you write your own long-term financial plan
The following tools were developed by Asset Management BC (AMBC) in collaboration with the Union of BC Municipalities and the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs.
By identifying and establishing long-term financial goals, your community can lower ongoing asset maintenance costs while effectively funding community infrastructure and service delivery. However, drafting a plan without prior experience can be a challenging process.
To help municipal practitioners get started with long-term financial planning, or to help more experienced staff sharpen their skills, AMBC has developed a guide, a customizable template, an Excel tool and a slide presentation. These resources were developed for a broad audience and can help you write a long-term financial plan, compile data and make calculations, summarize and present your plan, and more.
MAMP was designed to help Canadian municipalities strengthen their infrastructure investment decisions based on reliable data and sound asset management practices. This eight-year, $110-million program was funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It was implemented in partnership with municipal, provincial and territorial associations and other key stakeholders.
A neighbourhood in Markham, Ontario, will be the first net-zero community in Canada to connect all of its houses to a geothermal energy system, a major step toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. It’s just one of many innovative projects supported by GMF as we empower Canadian municipalities to take bold steps in addressing climate change, fostering resilience, and advancing sustainability.
In 2023-24, GMF had our most impactful year yet, as we invested nearly $200 million in local projects and secured more than $820 million in new funding. We’re helping communities across Canada access funding, knowledge and capacity to face the diverse challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability by undertaking innovative, scalable projects that make a real difference.
Climate-Ready Plans and Processes Community of Practice 
Adaptation in Action Community of Practice 
