ClimateWest Forum: The benefits of early adaptation action
Join us in Winnipeg and online May 3-4, 2023 for ClimateWest's inaugural forum
About
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. Be prepared!
Date: May 3-4, 2023
Location: This hybrid event will take place at the Inn at the Forks, Winnipeg, Manitoba and online.
Cost: It is free to attend the Forum. This includes admission to the Forum, meals and refreshments.
Accommodation: Book a room at the Inn at the Forks before March 31, 2023 to receive a discounted room rate. The group reservation number will be emailed to you upon registration.
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.
- Network and knowledge share with people from a wide range of sectors, communities, and perspectives.
Interested in sponsoring this event? Email info@climatewest.ca for sponsorship packages!
Agenda
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, Managing Director of Climate-Resilient Infrastructure, Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation
- Dimple Roy, Director, Water Management, International Institute for Sustainable Development
- Paige Englot, Senior Hub Manager, Prairies, and National Manager of Community Grants, ALUS
Further details on topics and speakers will be released as they are confirmed. Please note that the agenda is subject to change.
Registration
We are pleased to welcome both in-person and virtual attendees at our forum. We expect the in-person spaces to fill up fast and capacity at the venue is limited. Please see below the registration links depending on how you plan to attend.
Travel Tips
- Host the event in locations where a larger number of interested network members are currently located
- As our network covers three provinces, we will rotate the event throughout the three provinces each year
- Invite local speakers wherever possible
- Plan future agendas to focus on local speakers
If you do decide to travel, consider the following tips:
- If you are less than than 500km away, consider a bus trip or carpool
- If you are close by, consider active transportation methods or public transit
If you do have to fly, here are some tips to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions from flights:
- Ask your airline what their policy is on carbon offsets
- Choose direct flights over layovers
- Fly economy
- Choose an airline with modern, fuel-efficient planes – more information
- Minimize your number of flights per year