Coastal erosion and submergence
Coastal erosion and submergence have numerous economic, environmental, health and safety impacts, as well as effects on the well-being of people living in Quebec’s coastal areas.
Economic impacts
Coastal erosion and submergence have a significant effect on the economies of coastal regions. They can disrupt key sectors such as transportation, tourism, health and fishing.
Some regions of Quebec depend on a single road, such as Route 132 in the Gaspé and Route 138 in Côte-Nord, both of which are vulnerable to coastal erosion and submergence. During severe episodes of erosion, damage to these roads can block traffic, isolating communities. The frequency of these events can also threaten the economic viability of these communities.
If no adaptation measures are taken, it is estimated that erosion could threaten over 5,000 buildings and expose almost 300 km of roads to damage by 2065. The costs could amount to nearly $1.5 billion over this period. Note that this amount does not include the significant costs associated with submergence. It is estimated that by 2050, safety expenses related to submergence could reach $23 million per year.
The aim of this study is to measure the impact of climate change on the budgets of all municipal organizations in Quebec, particularly those in eastern Quebec that are facing challenges related to coastal erosion and submergence.
Environmental impacts
Coastal erosion and submergence alter the function and structure of coastal ecosystems, disrupting species distribution and dynamics.
Coastal habitats play a crucial role in coastal areas. On the one hand, they are diverse ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity, providing feeding, breeding, resting and migration areas for numerous species, including birds and fish. On the other hand, they are important for recreation and tourism.
These habitats also provide essential ecosystem services, such as natural protection against wave erosion and water filtration, as well as supplying food.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the impacts of the combined effect of climate change and human activities on coastal ecosystems in the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence in Quebec and New Brunswick by 2100, and to examine possible solutions for mitigating these impacts.
Impacts on health, safety and well-being
The impacts of coastal erosion and submergence on health, safety and well-being are often indirect, both at individual and collective level.
Most inhabitants of coastal regions live near the coast, where many activities take place. Coastal erosion and submergence can threaten these activities, leading to loss of income and sometimes the need to relocate, which can cause distress, anxiety, depression and even post-traumatic stress.
The well-being of a community can also be affected when there is a loss of living spaces or a change in coastal uses. It is important to note that Eastern Quebec is particularly vulnerable to these issues, due to its aging population and its economic situation.
