Game-Changing Climate Adaptation Investments Unveiled for Atlantic Canada: What You Need to Know

Climate change is hitting Canada hard. We’re facing more floods, wildfires, and heatwaves. Alongside these sudden events, slow changes like thawing permafrost and rising sea levels are shaking up our communities and everyday life. If we act now, we can build long-term resilience. This will help us deal with rising costs from extreme weather, including grocery prices, insurance, and local taxes for disaster recovery.

To shield our communities from severe economic and environmental damage, we must prepare for the changes ahead. Investing in community resilience will not only safeguard Canadians but also help recovery from extreme weather when it strikes.

On January 17, Jonathan Wilkinson, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $8.8 million in funding for nine projects in Atlantic Canada. This funding comes from Natural Resources Canada’s Climate Change Adaptation Program and the Climate-Resilient Coastal Communities Program.

Wilkinson stated, “The impacts associated with climate change are felt in every region of Canada. That’s why this federal government is acting now to help our communities and economy prepare for the threats of climate change.” He highlighted that the nine projects will boost safety and support vital community-based work.

The goals of these projects include developing better strategies, enhancing knowledge and skills, and implementing innovative actions to tackle climate risks. This funding is part of a larger investment of $39.5 million announced on November 14, 2024, aimed at bolstering community resilience across Canada as part of the National Adaptation Strategy.

Joanne Thompson, Minister of Seniors and MP for St. John’s East, emphasized the need to address the impacts of climate emergencies. She said, “The federal government knows that we need to act now to lessen the impact of climate emergencies so Canadians don’t have to face the costs of devastating consequences.” The projects will ensure proper skills and data analysis are in place to help communities weather the storm.