Federation of Canadian Municipalities

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the federal government are investing in climate adaptation.

Last week, they invested $7.1 million to support 80 climate adaptation projects across the country, including three in New Brunswick.

The funding allows municipalities to develop climate-focused asset management strategies, comprehensive risk assessments and adaptation plans that protect communities and infrastructure from increased climate threats.

“Climate change is already impacting Canadian communities, threatening homes, disrupting critical infrastructure and putting lives at risk,” FCM president Rebecca Bligh said in a statement. “Every dollar invested in adaptation today saves communities many more in recovery costs tomorrow.”

The investment was made through the Green Municipal Fund’s Local Leadership for Climate Adaptation initiative.

The initiative helps municipalities plan, test and implement tailored climate adaptation solutions that protect their residents and assets.

The Green Municipal Fund allows FCM to provide funds and education to municipalities to help them reach net-zero emissions and build resilient communities, as well as deliver economic and social benefits. It has helped greenhouse gas emissions by 2.98 million tonnes since its inception in 2000.

In New Brunswick, the City of Edmundston, Town of Quispamsis and the Town of Cap-Acadie each received $70,000 from the fund.

Cap-Acadie and Edmundston will use the money to create climate change adaptation plans in their respective communities.

Quispamsis will conduct a comprehensive asset management plan evaluation and climate change readiness assessment.

“Communities across Canada are on the front lines of climate change and they need the tools to adapt,” said Environment, Climate Change and Nature Minister Julie Dabrusin. “The Government of Canada, in partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, is working to help municipalities turn plans into action.”