National Adaptation Strategy

A pyramid divided into five sections stacked on top of one another and an arrow pointing from bottom to top. The widest section at the bottom has a symbol of a list and is labelled “Action Plans” with a description which reads, “Action plans outline immediate priorities, enable accountability, and focus on investments for the next five years”. The section above it has a symbol of a target and arrow and reads, “Near-term targets identify key priorities for immediate action, driving whole-of-society effort”. The next section, the third from the bottom, shows a symbol of a pathway with the words, “2030 Objectives”. The description reads, “Medium-term objectives outline key milestones needed to make progress toward the goals”. The section above this, fourth from the bottom shows a flag with the words, “2050 Goals” with the description “Long-term goals set specific transformational direction in each of the NAS Systems”. The last section at the very top of the pyramid shows a pair of binoculars and the word “Vision” with the description, “A shared vision to set long-term, overall direction for climate change resilience in Canada.

In the top left corner, a section titled “Guiding Principles” with four symbols above and the words below which read, “Guiding principles ensure we achieve that vision in a just and equitable way”. The first symbol of two stylized Indigenous people represents the first principle which is to “Respect jurisdictions and uphold Indigenous Peoples’ rights”. The second symbol is of weigh scales representing justice for the second principle which is to “Advance equity and climate and environmental justice”. The third symbol shows a hand protecting a plant which represents the third principle which is to “Take proactive, risk-based measures to reduce climate impacts before they occur”.  The fourth symbol shows a stylized graph with a heart, a leaf and an arrow suggesting positive upward movement. This represents the fourth principle which is to “Maximize benefits and avoid maladaptation”.

Provincial and territorial adaptation strategies and programs

Provincial and territorial governments in Canada are responsible for and set the direction for climate change adaptation measures in their respective jurisdictions. Many have developed stand-alone climate change adaptation plans or strategies and have made investments to support adaptation decision-making and on-the-ground action.

Indigenous organizations strategies

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are leaders and drivers of climate action. They are addressing climate change in ways that reflect their distinct nationhood, cultures, and knowledge systems. Many Indigenous governments, regions, and communities are advancing efforts to monitor, assess, and understand climate change impacts. They are also working to develop climate change strategies and action plans to address the unique needs of their communities and natural environments.

Municipal adaptation strategies

Cities and communities are actively planning for climate change risks by developing adaptation strategies that inform city planning and infrastructure investment decisions, encouraging action by homeowners and businesses, and putting in place measures to advance local action (e.g., land-use by-laws, policies and zoning regulations, public health measures).