State of Climate Change and Adaptation Knowledge for the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Territory

Northern regions are among those most vulnerable to climate change. Multiple studies and observations have already shown significant warming that is affecting human and natural systems. In addition, climate change exacerbates existing stressors such as socio-economic constraints and industrial development. In Eeyou Istchee James Bay, climate change is affecting terrestrial, aquatic and marine ecosystems, the built environment and economic development, leading to impacts on population health and safety and affecting quality of life, traditional activities and the well-being of Cree communities.

Most recent studies have focussed on the Arctic or southern Québec, while few studies have specifically examined the disruptive environmental and socio-economic effects of climate change on the Cree. Given the observed and projected climate-driven changes, it is important to update our knowledge for this region in order to guide local adaptation priorities. A portrait based on existing scientific and community knowledge will make it possible to better apprehend the multiple dimensions of the changes taking place and identify gaps in research and development (R & D).

• Summarize existing climate change and adaptation information for Eeyou Istchee James Bay and other relevant studies;

• Identify knowledge gaps and potential R & D needs;

• Support multi-level governance in decision-making processes on climate change adaptation.

• Conduct an exhaustive review of the scientific and gray literature on climate change impacts and adaptation for the Eeyou Istchee James Bay territory;

• Interview several key stakeholders to obtain additional information (i.e. university researchers, Cree Nation government, Cree organizations, provincial ministries, Hydro Québec, etc.);

• Have the results validated by multidisciplinary and local/regional experts.

The information compiled points to rapid changes in regional climate and the environment, with significant socio-economic repercussions for the Cree. Figure 1 illustrates the influence of global warming on hydroclimatic parameters that affect natural and built environments. These changes represent a major challenge for Cree culture, way of life, identity, health and subsistence activities, which are intimately linked to the land and its resources.

Figure 1 : Diagram illustrating the pressures of climate change on Cree communities and territory

Regional climate

Annual mean air temperature has increased by 1.5°C, and up to 2-3°C in winter, in the last 35 years. Climate observations show an increase in rainfall, storm frequency and winds, a decrease in snow cover and depth and a change in snow characteristics, as well as later freeze-up in autumn and earlier breakup in spring. Weather is becoming less predictable and the seasons are shifting. Climate projections for 2050 indicate that these trends will intensify.

Ecosystems

Local observations and scientific research report more southern species on the territory (such as moose, wolf, white-tailed deer), the modification of phenological cycles, a decrease in suitable habitat for several species hunted or harvested by the Cree (e.g. fish, caribou, berries) as well as changes in the quality and availability of wildlife and plants used in traditional food systems. The findings also indicate an increase in natural disturbances such as pests and invasive species (e.g. moose tick) and more frequent forest fires.

Health and culture

Changes in land accessibility (e.g. ice instability, weather unpredictability) and cultural and subsistence activities represent significant risks to physical, mental and spiritual health. These changes threaten Cree culture and identity by disrupting place-specific socio-cultural activities and undermining the preservation of the Cree way of life, causing emotional distress.

Infrastructure and industry

The observed climate hazards pose a challenge for asset design, construction, operation and maintenance, leading to additional infrastructure-related risks and costs for communities and businesses. To date, a few impacts on the built environment have been observed, including power outages due to forest fires, flooding of camps and basements and washing out of bridges.

Adaptation

La région en est aux premières phases du processus d’adaptation (sensibilisation, reconnaissance de l’enjeu). Peu d’initiatives proactives sont rapportées et les actions sont souvent volontaires, réactives et rarement documentées par écrit. Certains impacts climatiques pourraient être positifs si les secteurs respectifs adaptaient leurs activités en conséquence. La synthèse fait ressortir le besoin de mener des études locales tenant compte de plusieurs paramètres hydroclimatiques, d’acquérir de nouvelles données et de faire le suivi pour des espèces priorisées.

Il importe aussi de considérer les risques climatiques dans la planification des actifs et d’intégrer les changements climatiques dans les processus décisionnels et les documents stratégiques. Il semble également crucial de soutenir des échanges mutuels avec les acteurs locaux/régionaux afin d’identifier leurs enjeux prioritaires. Enfin, la sensibilisation des acteurs clés est une étape essentielle pour assurer un transfert des connaissances et utiliser, valoriser et mettre à jour les outils existants.

La contribution d’Ouranos dans ce projet est en nature

• James Bay Advisory Commitee on the Environmen