News release

Province Steps Up Climate Change Readiness

Premier's Office

Nova Scotia's efforts to prepare for climate change are getting a boost.

Communities around the province will benefit from new research into the challenges and opportunities from changes in temperature, sea level, rainfall and extreme weather.

The data from more than 30 climate change research projects will help municipalities develop action plans. The information is also available for flood mapping, emergency preparedness as well as non-emergency community planning.

"The science is clear -- climate change is happening, right now," said Premier Darrell Dexter while addressing scientists, planners and other representatives from industry, academia and government at the Atlantic Climate Adaptation Solutions (ACAS) conference in Halifax today, March 5.

"Nova Scotia is particularly sensitive to the effects of climate change, but also well-positioned to become a centre for climate research, policy and practice. Our growing need to adapt will create opportunities for new research, engineering, and technology -- we are poised to be leaders in climate change adaptation."

The conference highlighted Nova Scotia climate change adaptation projects, intended to help:

  • assess coastal, inland and infrastructure risk and vulnerability
  • protect drinking sources in the face of rising sea levels
  • share data and best practices among planners, engineers and officials

"The ACAS project has allowed us to apply leading-edge technology to coastal issues related to flooding and erosion that are affecting people today," said Tim Webster, research scientist at the Applied Geomatics Research Group, Nova Scotia Community College. "It has allowed us to hire new research interns, who have gained experience in using sophisticated mapping technology like survey grade GPS and laser ranging systems."

The research and partnerships from the ACAS project have built a foundation for Nova Scotia's efforts to prepare for climate change.

Nova Scotia and the government of Canada will have invested about $2.5 million in the Atlantic Climate Adaptation Solutions program by the end of the year. About $1.5 million is from the province and its partners through cash and in-kind contributions. The federal government has invested $850,000.