A range of adaptation strategies and measures exist to mitigate climate change. The strategies proposed during meetings offer potential solutions to respond to problems linked to vulnerable locations. Adaptation measures are presented according to three broad headings: built environment and infrastructure, natural areas, and services to the population.
Results of the Consultation meeting (report French only) have identified several locations likely to be impacted by sea-level rise and flooding. Meeting participants have prioritized possible adaptation measures according to the places and people most vulnerable to climate change.
A range of adaptation strategies and measures exist to mitigate climate change. The strategies proposed during meetings offer potential solutions to respond to problems linked to vulnerable locations. Adaptation measures are presented according to three broad headings: built environment and infrastructure, natural areas, and services to the population.
Measures to adapt the built environment and infrastructure
Several important community infrastructures identified during consultations are located in vulnerable areas. Preventive measures apply to certain businesses, numerous road infrastructures and wharves, as well as wastewater treatment systems.
A number of businesses, like those located in the “four corners” of Cocagne, will wish to study the possibility of modifying their buildings or relocating them away from flood-prone areas.
Road infrastructure, including bridges and culverts, could be modified, for example, in some places along the coast on Route 530 and Route 535 to better absorb storm surges.
A short-term strategy consists of communicating with the provincial Department of Transportation to discuss plans to modify bridges, culverts, and roads in the coming years.
Wharves are subject to modification, such as elevating structures and installations, in order to adapt to sea-level rise.
Wastewater treatment facilities are vulnerable to flooding. The sewage disposal system at the community centre (Centre 50, in Cocagne), for example, could be improved to work properly during heavy rainfall.
Treasure Island and the Florina Beach sector in Cocagne require that the sewage system be improved to maintain water quality in Cocagne Bay. A feasibility study for a joint wastewater treatment system in these locations has already been carried out.
Alternative solutions to septic fields could be considered, such as the community system implemented in Victoria, Prince Edward Island.
With respect to residents, several measures can be taken to prepare for climate change. The New Brunswick government website presents a number of preventive measures against floods.
Citizens are encouraged to test their well water on an annual basis to ensure the quality of their drinking water, especially for residences in flood-prone areas.
Measures to protect ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural areas
According to the New Brunswick Climate Change Action Plan, conserving natural environments, such as wetlands, salt marshes, or floodplains, is an important strategy for adapting to climate change by providing flood protection. Additionally, the conservation and restoration of forests, riparian zones, and stormwater ponds ensure that good water quality is maintained through sediment filtration.
Natural places provide ecosystem services that support adaptation to climate change. A video produced by the Pays de Cocagne Sustainable Development Group illustrates the role of natural infrastructures in the Cocagne Community Park.
Several measures can be adopted by municipalities to minimize effects on natural areas (French only). For example, a rural plan makes it possible to designate environmental zones to protect wetlands and respect riparian zones along waterways.
A rural plan also makes it possible to provide practical tools that enable communities to adapt to the rising sea level, particularly by establishing setbacks and minimum elevation levels for buildings along the coast.
A number of programs to conserve natural areas are available to citizens. There are also several tools to help residents manage coastal and riparian zones.
Maintaining services to the population during emergency measures
There are also measures to reduce the impact on services to the population during disasters.
To address citizens’ concerns and meet the essential needs of the elderly, those living alone, or those who are isolated, it would be important to provide an inventory of vulnerable people, in collaboration with the Cocagne Emergency Planning Committee, which would enable first responders to priority screen these residents.
A list of vulnerable people allows first responders to check those in need during emergency situations.
Warming and cooling shelters must be provided, like Notre-Centre in Grand-Digue, if power outages or other climatic events last longer than expected. It is also suggested that a food depot be set up to provide disaster victims with supplies for an extended period of time.
Families and individuals are encouraged to have an emergency kit that will allow them to be self-sufficient for 72 hours, as recommended by the NB Emergency Measures Organization
