Eleventh International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

Climate change is arguably the greatest challenge facing contemporary societies. The effects of sea level rise, hotter/drier summers, warmer/wetter winters, and increased frequency of extreme weather events will have far-reaching impacts on coastal communities, including people’s livelihoods, critical infrastructures and ecosystems. At the same time, sea level rise provides an opportunity to envision new ways of living with coastal dynamics. In this context, the Fraser River Delta provides a perfect case study. Situated along the Cascadia fault line, and home to a rapidly growing population of nearly 3 million people, the region is in urgent need of comprehensive approaches to coastal resilience. This paper highlights initial outcomes of an ongoing project involving a collaboration between academics, student researchers, design professionals, local experts and decision-makers. Key research questions include: How can visualization assist in raising awareness about climate change risks? Which coastal communities and critical habitats in the Fraser River Delta are vulnerable to sea level rise? And, what are the potential impacts of flooding on critical infrastructures? By applying geospatial analysis, visualization and systems thinking, the research shows the implications of sea level rise on key issues in the region (urban growth, logistics, intertidal habitats, food security). It also reveals opportunities and limitations for coastal adaptation when considering current local, provincial and federal regulations, policies and zoning guidelines. In doing so, this project aims to offer new tools, knowledge and insights to support policymakers, scientists, planners, engineers, and designers in analyzing, visualizing and re-imagining a resilient delta.