The impacts of climate change are experienced differently within and across communities. This web-based factsheet is intended to demystify what is meant by “equitable climate adaptation.” It outlines important terminology, explains why equity matters and discusses why a multi-solving approach that centres equity is essential to successfully reduce climate risks. 

What is equitable climate adaptation? 

Municipalities are uniquely positioned to undertake climate adaptation work right where climate impacts are experienced and with the people being affected on a daily basis. Equitable climate adaptation means taking action to address the impacts of climate change and to build resilience in a way that advances equity and inclusive community engagement. This includes recognizing and understanding the history and context of existing systems and identifying systems of privilege and inequality as well as building and fostering collaborative relationships and partnerships in climate adaptation work, with a particular focus on equity-deserving and marginalized communities. 

Glossary

Climate change adaptation

Actions that reduce or ameliorate the negative impacts of climate change while taking advantage of potential new opportunities. It involves adjusting policies and actions to address observed or expected climate change effects. Adaptation can be reactive (in response to climate impacts) or anticipatory (before impacts are observed). In most circumstances, anticipatory adaptations will be more effective than reactive adaptations and result in fewer damages and lower overall costs.

Equity

An allocation of resources that prioritizes those who have greater needs due to the systematic marginalization of certain groups.

Equity-deserving and marginalized communities

Groups of people who, because of systemic discrimination, face barriers that prevent them from having the same access to resources and opportunities as other members of society, and who need those resources and opportunities to attain just outcomes. These communities are often underrepresented in decision-making processes. In Canada, these groups often include Indigenous people, newcomers, people of colour, women, people with low income and people with limited mobility.

Equity-informed

An approach or strategy that considers and addresses systemic inequalities, historical injustices and power imbalances to aim for fair and just outcomes, particularly for those who have been marginalized.

Inclusive engagement

Identifying and engaging with equity-deserving groups that have an interest in the project or that are or will be impacted by changes. Inclusive engagement reduces barriers to participation, empowers diverse groups within decision-making and builds ongoing relationships and connections.

Meaningful engagement

An intentional process with the purpose of working in inclusive and respectful ways with all stakeholders and rights holders to shape decisions, actions, impacts or change.

It is important to recognize that every organization, region and municipality is unique, and that barriers and inequalities will differ from one community to another and from one individual to another. Reconciliation and anti-racism, equity, inclusion practices come as a part of an ongoing learning process that requires reflexivity, collaboration and relationship-building with genuine regard for humanity and social justice. 

How equitable climate adaptation helps build stronger communities 

Climate impacts are not uniform. They affect people across communities, across Canada and across the world in a variety of ways. In addition, how a climate impact is experienced has to do with existing social, health, physical and systemic barriers or privileges and can exacerbate inequities. Equitable climate adaptation is crucial for building stronger communities for several reasons: 

• Inclusive resilience: By ensuring that all community members can access resources and support, equitable climate adaptation helps everyone withstand and recover from climate impacts. This inclusivity fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose. 

• Health and well-being: Equitable adaptation strategies prioritize the health and well-being of all citizens. This includes addressing the specific needs of Indigenous communities, low-income residents and other equity-deserving, at-risk and/or marginalized communities, thereby reducing health disparities and improving overall community health. 

  • Example: Watch this video explaining how mobility-related disabilities can endanger an individual during disasters that require evacuation.  

• Environmental justice: Equitable adaptation ensures that the benefits of climate resilience are shared fairly, preventing certain groups from bearing a disproportionate share of climate-related burdens. This approach promotes fairness and justice, which are foundational to strong, cohesive communities.

  • Example: Climate-related disasters can place LGBTQ2+ people at a greater risk of violence and discrimination. 

• Enhanced infrastructure: Investing in resilient infrastructure that serves all community members equally helps protect against climate impacts like floods and extreme weather. This not only safeguards physical assets but also ensures that essential services remain accessible to everyone. 

  • Example: Poor-quality housing, housing insecurity and lower insurance coverage can increase individuals’ vulnerability to the effects of climate change. Those who are experiencing homelessness or are precariously housed are more vulnerable to extreme weather events. Flooding, extreme heat and wildfires are examples of climate-related events that will increase housing insecurity. 

• Economic stability: By supporting local economies and workers through targeted adaptation measures, communities can better withstand economic shocks from climate events. This stability encourages investment and growth, leading to more robust local economies. 

• Community engagement: Equitable adaptation involves engaging with all community members in planning and decision-making. This inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, leading to more effective and widely supported adaptation strategies. 

Equitable climate adaptation not only addresses immediate climate risks but also builds a foundation for long-term community strength and resilience. 

How can your community benefit from an equitable climate adaptation approach?  

By embedding equity into governance systems, processes and initiatives, municipalities are working toward a more resilient future in which we:  

• Address and mitigate systemic and physical barriers for those Canadians most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. 

• Ensure all Canadians can benefit from and contribute to adaptation actions. 

• Consider and address the realities of the most vulnerable communities. 

• Lessen burdens on groups facing compounding barriers, such as insufficient housing in locations experiencing extreme heat. 

• Reduce costs by proactively preparing for the impacts of climate change. 

• Share risk, expertise, resources, interest and ability to take action amongst a variety of community stakeholders. 

• Deliver on the guiding principles of Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy, including respecting jurisdictions, upholding Indigenous Peoples’ rights and advancing climate and environmental justice. 

• Contribute and/or deliver on national and international commitments such as Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy, the Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.