Search Climate Insights Directory

The document examines Quw’utsun Kw’atl’kwa Enterprises (QKE), a commercial fishing business owned by the Cowichan Tribes in British Columbia. It analyzes how the enterprise navigates the intersection of global warming, industrial pressures, and regulatory restrictions using the Nuu-chah-nulth principle of Tsawalk (interconnectedness). The study finds that while some salmon species are recovering, others like chum have reached lows not seen since the 1960s, threatening the economic and cultural viability of the community. QKE is adapting by diversifying its catch to include crab and ground fish and integrating Indigenous knowledge with Western science. The report recommends comprehensive environmental impact assessments, ecosystem mapping, and the establishment of climate-resilient partnership programs involving government and Indigenous stakeholders.

The document examines the intersection of commercial fishing, climate change, and Indigenous cultural practices through a case study of Quw’utsun Kw’atl’kwa Enterprises (QKE) in Cowichan, British Columbia. It argues that the depletion of fish stocks—particularly sockeye and rainbow trout—is driven by a combination of global warming, industrial pollution, and overfishing. Using the Nuu-chah-nulth principle of 'tsawalk' (interconnectedness), the study highlights how fishing is central to Cowichan identity and suggests that economic viability now requires diversifying into aquaculture, ecotourism, and renewable energy. The report concludes with recommendations for comprehensive environmental impact assessments, ecosystem mapping, and multi-stakeholder partnerships to ensure the long-term resilience of Indigenous commercial fisheries.

The document outlines the drivers and impacts of sea-level rise, noting that global levels have risen 8-9 inches since 1880. It highlights the disproportionate risk to marginalized communities and older adults, explains the mechanics of 'compound flooding' and subsidence, and directs reporters to data tools from NOAA, the Permanent Service for Mean Sea Level, and the Nevada Geodetic Laboratory.

The guide explains that global sea levels have risen 8-9 inches since 1880, leading to more frequent coastal flooding. It highlights the disproportionate impact on elderly and marginalized communities and provides technical guidance on using NOAA data and understanding compound flooding and land subsidence.

The document argues that Indigenous languages and toponyms are essential tools for environmental stewardship and climate action. Using the Ahousaht First Nation as a case study, it demonstrates how traditional place names provide critical ecological and historical data—such as former salmon spawning grounds or historical water levels—that can guide restoration efforts and infrastructure planning. The text highlights the vulnerability of coastal British Columbia to sea-level rise and extreme weather, advocating for the official recognition of Indigenous toponyms and increased financial support for community-led stewardship programs to enhance climate resilience.

The document explores the Ahousaht Land Use Vision, demonstrating how Indigenous place names provide critical biological and cultural data for climate adaptation. It argues that preserving Indigenous languages is essential for effective stewardship and recommends that Canadian governments streamline the process for restoring official Indigenous place names to enhance climate risk awareness and ecological restoration.

The report analyzes British Columbia's position in the global transition to carbon neutrality, highlighting a low overall proportion of workers in vulnerable sectors (3%) but significant localized risks in rural communities dependent on metallurgical coal and natural gas. It identifies strong competitive advantages, including the CleanBC roadmap and a low-carbon electricity grid, and notes the growth of 175 transition-supporting companies. However, it warns that policy misalignment and a focus on multinational firms over small-to-medium enterprises may hinder the province's ability to fully capitalize on clean tech opportunities.

The document introduces Indigenomics as a model for economic development that centres Indigenous rights, knowledge, and stewardship. It argues that a successful low-carbon transition in Canada requires economic reconciliation and the integration of Indigenous worldviews, which are described as the original 'green' and 'circular' economies. The author highlights several Indigenous-led initiatives, including the Great Bear Forest Carbon Project and the Indigenous Guardians Program, as evidence of leadership in climate action and environmental justice.

The essay introduces 'indigenomics' as a framework that blends traditional Indigenous principles—such as circular, regenerative, and gift economies—with modern business practices. It asserts that Indigenous knowledge systems and rights are essential for effective climate adaptation and mitigation, as Indigenous peoples manage vital carbon-storing ecosystems and possess long-term territorial memory. The author highlights several leadership initiatives, including the Great Bear Forest carbon project and Indigenous Protected and Conservation Areas, to demonstrate how Indigenous governance can drive environmental justice. The document concludes that a successful transition to a green economy in Canada requires economic reconciliation and the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in national climate and economic strategies.

The report evaluates the economic risks posed by the Westway, Imperium, and Grays Harbor Rail Terminal (GHRT) projects. It models three oil spill scenarios (rail derailment and two marine accidents) and analyzes their effects on commercial fisheries, subsistence harvests, traditional plant gathering, and QIN-owned businesses. Findings indicate that a major spill could lead to significant losses in direct jobs, personal income, and business revenue for the QIN and the broader Grays Harbor County economy, while also impairing the cultural and nutritional security provided by Treaty resources.

The document explains how scenarios—depicted as maps of land cover or marine habitats—are used in InVEST to compare the delivery of ecosystem services under alternative futures. It outlines characteristics of effective scenarios, such as being plausible, legitimate, and scientifically credible, and provides a framework for converting narrative storylines into quantitative maps. Through case studies in Hawaii, Borneo, Tanzania, and Canada, the primer demonstrates how scenarios can inform integrated spatial plans, green economy policies, carbon project feasibility, and marine spatial planning.

British Columbia is positioning itself for the low-carbon transition by leveraging a low-emissions electricity grid and a growing clean technology sector, though it faces risks from its reliance on metallurgical coal and natural gas exports. While the province has 175 transition-opportunity companies, primarily concentrated in Metro Vancouver, challenges remain regarding the domestic adoption of these technologies and the alignment of provincial policy to support small and medium-sized domestic firms. Vulnerable workers are concentrated in rural communities and among Indigenous populations, necessitating a shift in support toward new growth areas to ensure economic resilience.