Alberta’s climate has changed over the last century and future projections indicate a warmer and generally wetter future climate, with an increase in the frequency, intensity, or both, of some extreme weather events. These changes are altering our natural environment with observable changes related to the timing and availability of water, shifts in natural ecosystems, landscapes, and species’ ranges.
Changes in the climate are also negatively impacting the ability of municipalities to meet levels of service targets due to accelerated deterioration of infrastructure and reduced performance and reliability. In addition, climate change is a driver of health risks related to extreme heat, wildfires, and the expansion of vector-borne diseases; risks anticipated to increase as warming continues. These impacts affect every aspect of our lives—our livelihoods and economy, social connectedness, and general wellbeing.
The main purpose of this Climate Adaptation Plan (the “Plan”) is to provide the foundation to guide climate adaptation efforts and enhance resilience across the Town of Devon (the ”Town”). A variety of high priority climate change risks facing the Town are evaluated in detail, and a robust adaptation strategy to manage priority risks and reduce impacts on residents, businesses, and municipal staff is provided.
See the full plan here
See the brochure version of the plan here
The inventory helps a municipality track which sectors use the most energy and emit the most GHG emissions, while indicating where to focus and prioritize reduction efforts. An inventory also helps municipalities track where money is being spent on energy, potentially revealing cost savings opportunities.
Additionally, the inventory provides a starting point from which progress can be measured, helping track the effectiveness of a GHG emission and energy efficiency plan. The quantification of GHG emissions, along with the demonstrated commitment and planning towards GHG reductions can also allow a municipality access to provincial and federal funding opportunities.
This document provides a strategic approach and direction for the Town of Devon to reach environmentally sustainable goals in an economically feasible manner. Green Devon lays out short-term and long-term goals, along with objectives, and recommended actions for six priority areas. Due to changes in technology, programs, and other elements, this document is subject to change and shall be amended as needed and reviewed by Council annually.
See the Town of Devon Green Strategy here!