Managing climate risk for public sector organizations

The climate in B.C. has already changed and will continue to change in the future.

Climate impacts are already being felt in B.C. and are likely to increase in severity. Historical and ongoing greenhouse gas emissions mean that climate impacts will continue for decades.

Public sector organizations (PSOs) need to consider climate risks to protect public assets and ensure that quality services are maintained in a changing climate.

Climate risk management

Climate risk management is the process to:

• Understand, assess and manage climate-related risks
• Increase capacity to prepare for and adapt to a changing climate
• Develop adaptation strategies and policies
• Prioritize climate resilience planning and decision-making

By understanding and preparing for climate change, we can reduce the cost and consequences of climate change impacts in B.C.

Climate Change Accountability Act

The Climate Change Accountability Act requires the province to report publicly starting in 2020 on the following:

• Risks to B.C. that could reasonably be expected from a changing climate
• Progress towards reducing those risks
• Actions to achieve that progress
• Plans to continue progress

Actions taken by PSOs will be part of this report.

Resources

• Explore resources for PSOs
• Learn more about climate risk management and adaptation