Workshop Agreement on Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Water Management

March 7, 2025

Reading time: 41 minutes

1. Executive Summary

The Workshop Agreement (WA) on Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Water Management is the result of a virtual workshop held on October 29 and 31, 2024. This workshop collected insights, including case studies and technical resources, to establish consensus on key aspects of using NbS for managing water quality and quantity in Canada. The workshop also served as a collaborative platform to explore barriers and opportunities, and develop actionable recommendations. The resulting WA identifies implementation challenges and opportunities, offering practical guidance to enhance adoption, and outlining strategies to mitigate risks effectively.

The WA aims to support decision-makers, asset owners, and practitioners—such as municipalities, conservation authorities, and local communities—by offering a foundational resource for understanding and advancing NbS for managing both water quality and quantity. Insights and recommendations developed during the workshops may also inform the development of technical guidance or a National Standard of Canada in the future.

The workshop brought together a diverse group of interested parties, including municipalities, non-profit organizations, conservation authorities, and academic institutions, to contribute knowledge and perspectives (See list of participants and interested parties in Appendix A). Through presentations, case studies, and breakouts sessions (see workshop agenda in Appendix B) discussions emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration, Indigenous leadership, and innovative funding mechanisms to accelerate the adoption of NbS implementation for effective water management in Canada. Presented case studies and mentioned resources are also provided in Appendix C for further information.

2. Introduction

Water is essential for sustaining life, promoting health, ensuring food security, energy production, and driving economic development. However, Canada’s water resources are increasingly under pressure from population growth, urbanization, pollution, overexploitation, land use changes, and the intensifying impacts of climate change. These pressures necessitate the urgent adaptation of infrastructure standards to improve resilience and address critical water management challenges.

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) represent a critical approach to addressing Canada’s pressing water management challenges. NbS leverage natural processes to provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions for managing water quality and quantity while delivering a range of co-benefits, including biodiversity conservation, community resilience, and economic sustainability (Watkin et al., 2019). Examples of NbS include wetlands, riparian buffer zones, green infrastructure, and urban greening projects, all of which improve ecosystem functionality while addressing specific human needs such as clean drinking water, flood protection, improved air quality, recreational spaces, and the mitigation of urban heat effects. Beyond strengthening natural resilience, NbS contribute to carbon sequestration, habitat restoration, and sustainable development.

The significance of NbS has been recognized globally through frameworks such as the Paris Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction In Canada, the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS), and initiatives like the Standards to Support Resilience in Infrastructure Program (SSRIP)^[1], identify NbS as a cornerstone of efforts to build climate resilience.

Indigenous knowledge must also be a cornerstone of NbS implementation, as Indigenous communities have long applied nature-based practices to harmonize with ecosystems, offering invaluable insights into sustainable water management. NbS that recognize and elevate this knowledge may support reconciliation, help ensure solutions are regionally and culturally relevant, and should align with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). It is important to also recognize that UNDRIP is the minimum standard for the dignity, survival and well-being of Indigenous Peoples.

By integrating NbS into water management practices, Canada has an opportunity to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change while fostering environmental, social, and economic resilience. Combining modern innovation with local knowledge and global best practices ensures that these solutions are not only effective but also equitable and culturally aligned. NbS represent a transformative path forward—one that strengthens ecosystems, supports communities, and builds a sustainable future for generations to come.

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^[1] Supported by funding from Budget 2021 and Budget 2023, Phase II of SSRIP builds on past achievements to develop standardized approaches that improve infrastructure resilience and better prepare Canadian communities for climate impacts.

3. Nature-based Solutions for Water Management in Canada

3.1 Current Status of NbS in Canada

NbS are increasingly recognized as essential tools for addressing water management challenges in Canada, particularly as the impacts of climate change intensify. As highlighted by Joanna Eyquem, Managing Director of Climate-Resilient Infrastructure at the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, NbS (such as wetland restoration, riparian buffers, green infrastructure, and urban greening projects) provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and multi-dimensional approach to managing water resources by improving water quality, regulating water flow, and enhancing ecosystem resilience​.

The urgency to scale up NbS is underscored by the significant economic losses associated with climate-related disasters in Canada, with insured damages surpassing $8 billion in 2024 alone (Reuters, 2025). For instance, wetland restoration has been shown to effectively mitigate flood risks, while a beach nourishment project in Quebec was estimated at an exceptional benefit-cost ratio of 68:1 compared to traditional infrastructure like concrete sea walls (Ouranos, 2016). These examples highlight the cost-effectiveness of NbS in delivering long-term environmental, social, and economic gains​

Despite these successes, the adoption of NbS remains uneven across the country. Fragmented governance structures, insufficient funding mechanisms, and a lack of standardized technical guidelines pose significant barriers. Regional disparities also play a role, with semi-arid areas like the Prairies facing prolonged droughts and other regions experiencing water surpluses, emphasizing the need for regionally tailored NbS approaches​.

Table 1. Types of Nature-based Solutions in Canada with Case Studies

3.2 Key Benefits of NbS for Water Management

This section outlines the environmental benefits of NbS, as described by workshop participants, as well as examples of economic value, and the benefit of aligning with Indigenous ways of knowing. This section also summarizes a discussion on how scaling up NbS in Canada offers a transformative opportunity to address water management challenges while achieving broader climate resilience and sustainability goals. 

3.2.1 Environmental Benefits of NbS

• Flood and drought regulation: NbS help to regulate hydrological cycles by absorbing and storing water during wet periods and releasing it during dry periods. They slow down surface runoff, reduce soil erosion, and enhance groundwater recharge. These functions are important for mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events exacerbated by intensive land use in agriculture and urban development.
• Improved water quality: Natural processes, such as filtration through wetlands and riparian buffer strips, remove contaminants, sediments, and excess nutrients from water, contributing to safer and more sustainable water sources. This supports ecosystem health while protecting water supplies.
• Biodiversity and co-benefits: NbS restoring habitats, such as wetlands and riparian zones, that support biodiversity. They provide additional benefits, including urban cooling (reducing heat islands), carbon sequestration, and recreational spaces. They also provide cultural, recreational, and economic benefits, particularly for Indigenous communities.

NbS are particularly effective when implemented at scales that match their functional purpose, such as at the watershed or regional levels (i.e., river basins or urban watersheds). For example, cumulative effects in large-scale projects like floodplain restoration or forest management can provide systemic improvements to hydrological resilience.

3.2.1 Economic Value of NbS

• Cost-effectiveness: NbS often offer cost advantages compared to traditional “gray” infrastructure. An illustrative case is a beach nourishment project in Quebec, which achieved a remarkable benefit-cost ratio of 68:1 over traditional concrete sea walls (Ouranos, 2016). The project not only mitigated coastal erosion but also generated co-benefits, such as enhancing fish habitats and boosting local tourism revenue.
• Support for ecosystem-based Industries: NbS projects can support and enhance ecosystem-based industries, such as fisheries, forestry, and tourism, by maintaining the natural systems they depend upon. This integration of environmental and economic benefits strengthens local economies while promoting sustainability.
• Long-term financial viability: Unlike gray infrastructure, which often requires frequent maintenance and eventual replacement, NbS tend to improve in value and effectiveness over time as ecosystems mature. This makes them a financially sustainable solution for long-term challenges such as flood risk and water quality management.
• Stacking benefits: NbS projects allow for the stacking of multiple benefits, such as flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, and recreation, which can yield a high return on investment. This multifaceted approach highlights the economic efficiency of NbS in addressing diverse challenges while providing tangible co-benefits.

3.2.2 Alignment with Indigenous Knowledge and Reconciliation

Integrating Indigenous knowledge and leadership is important for the success of NbS in Canada. Indigenous communities have long relied on sustainable land management practices, such as traditional wetland management, which align closely with NbS principles. These practices emphasize ecosystem harmony and cultural connections to the land, making Indigenous leadership essential for developing effective and inclusive NbS projects. Collaborating with Indigenous communities not only enhances project outcomes but also advances reconciliation and fosters deeper respect for traditional ecological knowledge.

3.2.3 Scaling NbS Across Canada

Although several municipalities in Canada have launched NbS projects, expanding these initiatives to the provincial or national level remains a challenge. Currently, NbS are employed for flood regulation, drought resistance, and water quality improvements, but fragmented governance and a lack of integration into broader frameworks hinder their widespread adoption. Key actions to scale NbS include:

• Implementing NbS at functional scales: NbS need to be implemented at scales that match their ecological functions, such as watersheds or coastal zones, to ensure their full benefits are realized. For example, projects like floodplain restoration or wetland conservation are most effective when planned and executed on a regional basis, rather than as isolated efforts.
• Highlighting the economic value of natural assets: Incorporating natural assets into frameworks like Statistics Canada’s natural capital accounts can help quantify their value and strengthen the case for including them in policy and financial decisions. Organizations like the Canadian Institute of Actuaries are already exploring ways to highlight the economic value of natural infrastructure to reduce risks.
• Integrating NbS into national policies: To achieve broader adoption, NbS must also be integrated into national policies and land management strategies. The “One Water” approach, which coordinates the management of surface water, groundwater, and stormwater, provides a strong framework for scaling NbS. Vancouver’s Rain City Strategy, for instance, uses this approach to manage water resources while addressing urban challenges like flooding and climate resilience.
• Fostering cross-sector collaboration: Collaboration between municipalities, provinces, and Indigenous communities is also essential. Indigenous-led NbS offer unique strengths by drawing on traditional ecological knowledge and promoting practices that align with reconciliation efforts. These partnerships can help ensure that projects are both culturally relevant and ecologically effective.

Scaling NbS across municipal, regional, and watershed levels can help Canada address water management challenges and build climate resilience. Success requires overcoming institutional barriers, increasing technical capacity, fostering collaboration, and developing adaptive standards that reflect Canada’s diverse landscapes.

3.3 Case Studies: NbS for Water Management in Action

The following case studies were presented by workshop participants with presentations available in Appendix C.

3.3.1 The Onslow-North River Managed Dyke Realignment and Tidal Wetland Restoration Project

The Onslow-North River Managed Dyke Realignment and Tidal Wetland Restoration project in Nova Scotia, presented by Kirsten Ellis from CBWES Inc., is a significant initiative addressing flood mitigation while restoring 92 hectares of tidal wetland habitat on the Salmon and North River River floodplain. Realigning of the agricultural dykes and the restoration of floodplain was one of several actions to reduce flood risk and enhance resiliency for climate change, recommended by a 2017 Flood Risk Study by CBCL Ltd. To achieve this, the project constructed 1.2 km of new inner dyke and decommissioned a 3.6 km section of old dyke in order to reintroduce tidal flow to 92 ha of former floodplain. Six tidal channels were incorporated, three of which were former channels repurposed for the new design, while the remaining channels were excavated to allow self-design through tidal action. Since the restoration in 2021, the site has experienced rapid sedimentation, which is stabilizing low-lying areas and fostering the establishment of brackish vegetation communities. Ecological benefits include increased fish presence, reduced flood extent and duration, and fewer ice jams. As Nova Scotia’s first large-scale dyke realignment for flood mitigation, this project demonstrates a sustainable approach to managing agricultural lands and enhancing coastal resilience in response to climate change.

3.3.2 Resilience Through Wetland Conservation and Dams in the Canadian Prairies

Water retention projects in the Canadian Prairies, with a focus on Manitoba, were presented by Josée Méthot from the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). These initiatives address critical challenges in the region, including aging water infrastructure and the impacts of climate change on water availability and quality. Water retention techniques involve conserving wetlands and constructing dams or berms to store water during wet periods for use during droughts. For example, the De Salaberry project in Manitoba holds 376 acre-feet of water, reducing peak flows by 42% during extreme storms and cutting phosphorus pollution by 17.8%. An economic analysis of 10 water retention projects found a return of $3.16 in benefits for every dollar invested, including improvements in water quality, drought resilience, and flood mitigation. These projects not only enhance ecosystem health but also provide tangible economic and social benefits, supporting agriculture and communities across the Prairies.

3.3.3 Flood Risk Management in the Credit Valley Watershed: The Risk and Return on Investment Tool (RRIT)

The Credit Valley Watershed Risk and Return on Investment Tool (RRIT) was presented by Christine Zimmer from Credit Valley Conservation (CVC). The watershed, located between Toronto and Buffalo, has faced increasing flood risks due to urban development and outdated infrastructure standards. The RRIT evaluates multiple flood risks—such as urban stormwater, riverine flooding, and sanitary backups—and identifies appropriate interventions using a combination of natural, green, and grey infrastructure. For instance, green infrastructure options like low-impact development proved effective for urban flooding, while riverine risks were mitigated with stormwater ponds and culvert upgrades. Priority mapping also considered social vulnerability to flooding, informing land-use decisions such as converting high-risk areas into parklands or protecting wetlands. By integrating natural and green infrastructure with traditional grey solutions, CVC achieved a 35% reduction in flood and erosion damages, compared to just 3% from grey infrastructure alone. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of community-focused flood resilience in urban watersheds.

3.3.4 The Natural Solutions Initiative: Advancing Watershed-Scale NbS Through Collaboration and Innovation

The Natural Solutions Initiative, presented by Lauren Vincent from the Action on Climate Team (ACT) at Simon Fraser University, promotes systemic and cohesive Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to address water management challenges. This initiative emerged from the barriers faced by municipalities, such as fragmented approaches and siloed knowledge. ACT emphasizes a watershed-scale approach to NbS, integrating ecosystem-based management with natural assets and blue-green infrastructure. Collaboration with First Nations and regional interested parties is a key feature of this approach, enabling cross-jurisdictional partnerships. A study in Port Moody highlighted how watershed-based NbS planning could align municipal and regional goals, fostering long-term resilience and collaboration. ACT’s work aims to provide municipalities with a framework for implementing NbS that supports ecological, social, and economic benefits, while addressing the broader challenges of climate resilience.

4. The Importance of a “One Water” Approach

The One Water approach builds on the principles of NbS by integrating natural and engineered systems to manage water resources in a sustainable, holistic way. Like NbS, the One Water approach recognizes the interconnectedness of water systems—rainwater, wastewater, groundwater, and drinking water—and leverages these connections to maximize environmental, social, and economic benefits. By incorporating NbS, such as bioretention ponds, permeable pavements, and restored wetlands, the approach transcends traditional silos in water management and addresses complex challenges like climate change, urbanization, and resource scarcity. It prioritizes cross-sectoral collaboration and sustainable infrastructure solutions to enhance system efficiency while providing co-benefits such as flood mitigation, urban cooling, and biodiversity enhancement.

Vancouver exemplifies the One Water approach, demonstrating how NbS can be integrated into urban water management to address unique challenges. Historically, the city’s transition from a rainforest with over 40 streams to a densely urbanized landscape involved significant alterations to its water systems. Most waterways were buried, and a combined sewer system was constructed, resulting in frequent overflows during rainfall events and subsequent environmental degradation. These challenges have been exacerbated by climate change, with the city experiencing more intense rainfall, rising sea levels, and summer droughts. These pressures prompted Vancouver to adopt an integrated water management strategy.

To operationalize the One Water approach, Vancouver has implemented initiatives such as the Integrated Rainwater Management Plan, the Rain City Strategy, and the Healthy Waters Plan. These programs aim to reduce sewage overflows, manage stormwater pollution, and increase green spaces. The city has also embraced nature-based green infrastructure, including bioretention areas, rainwater tree trenches, and the St. George Rainway—a four-block corridor that effectively manages stormwater while enhancing urban greenery and educating residents about sustainable water management. Additionally, Vancouver is reconnecting natural water systems by restoring wetlands and abandoned creek channels to their watersheds, improving water quality and providing flood mitigation benefits

A key aspect of Vancouver’s approach is its collaboration with local First Nations to incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and promote reconciliation. The city works with Indigenous communities to address environmental racism, integrate traditional plants into green infrastructure projects, and include Indigenous art in public spaces.

Vancouver’s One Water framework also employs a multi-criteria decision-making process to evaluate strategies based on environmental, social, and economic benefits. For instance, an analysis of the Inner Harbour identified a balanced mix of sewer separation and green infrastructure as the most effective strategy to address high combined sewer overflow rates. This approach ensures that solutions are both efficient and impactful.

By integrating Nature-based Solutions into its One Water strategy, Vancouver exemplifies how cities can transform historical challenges into opportunities for innovation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

5. Addressing Challenges, Mitigating Risks, and Ensuring Effective Implementation of NbS

The implementation and scaling of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for water management in Canada present significant opportunities to address water challenges while improving resilience to climate change. However, several barriers hinder their widespread adoption. These challenges include regulatory disconnects, limited funding, knowledge gaps, resistance from interested parties, siloed governance structures, and resistance to change from within organizations and institutions.

5.1 Key Challenges in Implementing NbS

One of the primary barriers to NbS adoption is the lack of regulatory clarity and outdated standards. Many municipalities operate without formal policies mandating NbS, while legacy standards, (such as restrictions on infiltration near water mains in British Columbia for example), create limitations. Additionally, fragmented policies between federal, provincial, and municipal levels result in inefficiencies, preventing cohesive action on NbS adoption. Jurisdictional fragmentation further complicates efforts to scale up NbS by creating gaps in accountability and coordination.

Knowledge gaps further exacerbate these challenges. The absence of regionally specific technical guidelines and standardized metrics makes it difficult for practitioners and decision-makers to quantify and demonstrate the benefits of NbS. Concerns about variability in performance—particularly during extreme weather conditions like winter storms—create hesitancy among engineers and municipal officials. Without clear, measurable outcomes, scaling NbS projects remains a challenge. Additionally, the difficulty in quantifying cultural and co-benefits, such as health and recreational value, can hinder acceptance among interested parties.

Funding constraints also present another hurdle. Current funding models often emphasize short-term, “shovel-ready” projects, leaving little room for long-term monitoring, adaptive management, and maintenance. This shortfall disproportionately impacts smaller municipalities and Indigenous communities, which often lack the resources to initiate and sustain NbS initiatives. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as taxing impervious surfaces or offering subsidies for property-level NbS, remain underutilized.

Community resistance frequently arises from misconceptions about maintenance complexity, skepticism about NbS effectiveness, and concerns over changes in landscape such as narrower streets or increased green space, or a preferential bias for what currently exists. Effective communication and education campaigns are necessary to address these misconceptions and foster public trust of NbS.

Finally, siloed governance within municipalities, and between municipal, provincial and federal governments (especially in terms of aligning funding priorities, legislation, and responsibilities) prevents cross-sectoral collaboration. Departments like urban planning, engineering, and public works often operate in isolation, creating inefficiencies and limiting the integration of holistic NbS solutions into municipal strategies. This challenge is compounded by institutional inertia, where long-standing reliance on grey infrastructure fosters resistance to adopting innovative NbS approaches.

6. Strategies for Mitigating Risks and Ensuring Effective Implementation

Strategies include initiating pilot projects to demonstrate effectiveness, which helps address skepticism and build credibility. Educational campaigns, using tailored outreach efforts, storytelling, and visual tools like flood risk maps, can effectively communicate the benefits of NbS. Engaging local champions, such as community leaders or municipal engineers, further improves trust and credibility. Indigenous leadership and knowledge integration are vital for fostering community support and ensuring cultural and ecological appropriateness. Cross-sector collaboration, involving partnerships between municipalities, universities, and community organizations, can provide essential technical guidance and resources, especially for smaller municipalities. Additionally, developing adaptive “living standards” that evolve with new data and regional needs enhances the credibility and applicability of NbS.

Public support and institutional buy-in can be further strengthened by showcasing NbS’s resilience during extreme weather events and aligning initiatives with broader policy goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Mandating public engagement as a component of NbS funding or standards could also strengthen public buy-in. Incorporating cost-benefit analyses and emphasizing ecosystem services, like reduced water treatment costs and improved health outcomes, can make a compelling economic case for NbS adoption.

6.1 Resistance to and Acceptance of NbS for Water Management

Flexible and adaptive standards, tailored to regional contexts, are critical to ensure NbS solutions evolve with local needs, new data, practices, and environmental changes. Structured platforms for knowledge sharing and capacity building, involving municipalities, universities, and local communities, can foster collaboration and provide technical guidance for scaling projects. Highlighting successful initiatives, such as Montreal’s sponge parks, demonstrates the value of peer-to-peer learning and knowledge exchange.

To address funding barriers, innovative financial mechanisms such as taxing impervious surfaces, offering subsidies for property-level NbS, and creating pre-development funding models can support the full lifecycle of NbS projects, including long-term maintenance and adaptive management. Collaboration with universities to provide accessible data-sharing tools fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Indigenous leadership and knowledge integration ensure projects align with cultural and environmental practices, further strengthening their sustainability and community relevance.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential, bringing together environmental professionals, engineers, urban planners, social scientists, and Indigenous knowledge holders to address the social, cultural, and technical dimensions of NbS planning. Aligning NbS initiatives with broader policy objectives, such as the SDGs, can improve institutional support and create funding opportunities. Sharing success stories, such as the Credit River Watershed’s integration of green and grey infrastructure, can inspire municipalities to adopt similar approaches.

Finally, ongoing monitoring and adaptive management practices must be embedded into funding and policy frameworks to ensure NbS projects remain effective over time. These practices will build resilience and provide valuable feedback for refining NbS strategies in diverse contexts.

In conclusion, mitigating risks and scaling NbS implementation in Canada demands coordinated efforts across governance, funding, and community engagement. By fostering collaboration, adopting flexible standards and innovative funding models, and addressing systemic resistance, NbS can be effectively scaled to achieve resilient and sustainable water management systems.

7. The Role of Standards in NbS Implementation

Standards are essential for scaling NbS in Canada, providing clear frameworks that build trust, improve consistency, and reduce risks in implementation. However, gaps remain in the standardization landscape, leaving municipalities and practitioners with inconsistent guidelines. Many existing standards, such as those for stormwater management, are outdated and fail to integrate critical considerations for climate resilience. Regional discrepancies further complicate the adoption of NbS, and the absence of standards for hybrid systems that combine natural and engineered approaches limits innovative solutions. There is also a critical need to embed Indigenous knowledge into standards to ensure cultural relevance and ecological appropriateness.

Stephanie Poirier, Senior Policy Analyst at the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), highlighted the SCC’s proactive approach to addressing these gaps through its Standards to Support Resilience in Infrastructure Program (SSRIP). This initiative develops flexible, adaptable standards that respond to the evolving needs of NbS projects. Poirier underscored the importance of rigorous multi-stakeholder collaboration in standard development, ensuring transparency, equity, and regional relevance. The SCC’s work prioritizes inclusive and adaptive solutions, recognizing that standards must evolve alongside advancements in technology, environmental data, and societal needs.

To address these challenges, “living standards” that evolve with new data, practices, and environmental shifts should be prioritized. To overcome the current challenges, the creation of “living standards” is vital. These dynamic frameworks can adapt to local environmental conditions and emerging data, ensuring NbS solutions remain effective over time. National and regional guidelines should include specific, measurable metrics for evaluating outcomes, such as water quality improvements, biodiversity enhancement, and climate resilience. Integrating Indigenous knowledge throughout the standardization process ensures that NbS projects align with cultural practices and local ecological systems. The SCC’s partnerships with organizations like the CSA Group exemplify how collaborative approaches can produce comprehensive, actionable standards.

Developing these standards requires interdisciplinary collaboration. Engineers, urban planners, ecologists, and social scientists must work together to ensure guidelines address technical, social, and environmental dimensions of NbS implementation. The inclusion of co-benefits, such as urban cooling, public health, and recreational opportunities, should also be prioritized in standards to maximize the value of NbS projects.

Knowledge sharing is another critical component. Structured platforms where municipalities, practitioners, and Indigenous communities can exchange insights and best practices are essential for ensuring consistent and effective application of standards. Additionally, funding mechanisms tied to adherence to standardized guidelines can enhance accountability and encourage broader adoption of high-quality NbS projects.

By embedding robust, flexible, and inclusive standards into Canada’s NbS framework, interested parties will gain the tools necessary to implement projects that are scalable, resilient, and equitable. This standardization effort will not only address existing barriers but also unlock the full potential of NbS to meet Canada’s water management and climate adaptation needs effectively.

8. Recommendations

8.1 General good practices for Implementing NbS

The effective implementation of NbS requires a systematic, multi-phase approach that addresses the ecological, social, and economic dimensions of each project.

Conduct Baseline Assessments

Begin by thoroughly analyzing ecosystems, hydrology, and socio-economic conditions. Tools like watershed-level mapping are essential for identifying areas where interventions will have the greatest impact. For example, the Credit Valley Watershed project used risk and return assessments to pinpoint flood-prone areas and design targeted NbS interventions, such as wetland restoration and low-impact development.

Engage Interested Parties Early

Successful NbS projects depend on collaboration with municipalities, Indigenous communities, conservation organizations, and private sector partners. Engaging these interested parties from the start ensures that diverse perspectives are included in planning and implementation. Establishing clear roles and responsibilities promotes accountability and effective decision-making. Indigenous leadership is particularly valuable, as traditional ecological knowledge can guide culturally and environmentally appropriate solutions, in line with Canada’s commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

Align with Broader Goals through Integrated Planning

Integrating NbS into broader climate resilience and development strategies maximizes their effectiveness. For example, NbS can contribute to water management, biodiversity conservation, and urban planning goals simultaneously. Vancouver’s Rain City Strategy illustrates how NbS can mitigate flooding, enhance water quality, and increase urban greenery, aligning with long-term climate adaptation objectives.

Adapt Solutions to Regional Needs

Tailoring NbS to address local challenges is essential. Issues like coastal erosion, urban flooding, and drought require region-specific strategies. For instance, Manitoba’s water retention projects successfully reduced peak water flows and improved water quality, delivering a return of $3.16 for every dollar invested (International Institute for Sustainable Development [IISD], 2023). Similarly, Vancouver’s bioretention systems and the St. George Rainway demonstrates how urban areas can use NbS to enhance climate resilience and engage local communities.

By following these steps, Canada can scale up the implementation of NbS to effectively address pressing water management challenges while fostering ecological and social resilience for the future.

8.2 Future Guidance and Standardization

Effective implementation of NbS requires robust guidance and the development of standardized approaches. This includes the development of comprehensive monitoring frameworks, performance indicators, and adaptive management plans tailored to regional needs. Monitoring frameworks should address key outcomes such as water quality improvements, flood mitigation, and biodiversity enhancement, providing quantifiable metrics that interested parties can use to assess the effectiveness of NbS projects over time. For example, the Credit Valley Watershed project successfully incorporated region-specific indicators to evaluate flood risk reduction and ecosystem restoration, demonstrating the value of targeted metrics in achieving measurable outcomes​.

Standardization efforts must prioritize the creation of “living standards,” which are dynamic frameworks designed to evolve with emerging data, environmental changes, and advances in technology. These standards should incorporate flexible guidelines to address the diverse environmental and climatic conditions across Canada. For instance, adaptive standards could guide coastal NbS projects in mitigating sea-level rise and erosion, while urban standards might focus on stormwater retention and urban heat island reduction​

Region-specific metrics are important for ensuring that NbS projects are both effective and contextually relevant. Metrics must reflect local priorities, such as reducing phosphorus pollution in agricultural watersheds or enhancing tidal wetland ecosystems in coastal regions. For example, Manitoba’s water retention projects successfully integrated regionally tailored solutions that reduced peak water flows and improved water quality, highlighting the importance of customizing standards to meet localized challenges​

Embedding Indigenous knowledge into NbS frameworks is another crucial aspect of guidance and standardization. Indigenous communities have long applied nature-based practices that harmonize with ecosystems, offering invaluable insights into sustainable water management. Incorporating this knowledge ensures that NbS projects are not only culturally appropriate but also ecologically sound. For example, projects that involve traditional land management practices, such as the use of native plants for water filtration and habitat restoration, can enhance the cultural and environmental value of NbS initiatives​. Furthermore, aligning standards with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) ensures that NbS implementation advances reconciliation and respects Indigenous sovereignty.

Developing these standards requires interdisciplinary collaboration involving engineers, ecologists, urban planners, and Indigenous knowledge holders. Collaborative efforts can help address technical, social, and cultural dimensions of NbS projects. Additionally, structured platforms for knowledge sharing and capacity building are necessary to facilitate the exchange of best practices across sectors and regions. Municipalities, universities, and conservation organizations can play a pivotal role in this process, fostering innovation and ensuring consistency in NbS implementation​

In conclusion, advancing NbS in Canada demands a strategic focus on creating flexible, inclusive, and regionally relevant standards. By integrating adaptive management principles, embedding Indigenous knowledge, and fostering cross-sector collaboration, Canada can build a robust framework that ensures the scalability, resilience, and sustainability of NbS for water management.

8.3 Increasing NbS Uptake

Expanding the adoption of NbS requires a strategic combination of financial incentives, supportive policies, and knowledge-sharing mechanisms. An important first step is the development of comprehensive cost-benefit models that clearly demonstrate the economic and environmental advantages of NbS, including flood risk reduction, improved water quality, enhanced biodiversity, and economic benefits like increased tourism and lower healthcare costs due to urban heat mitigation. These models help build interested parties confidence by quantifying long-term benefits.

In addition, targeted policy interventions—such as tax incentives for NbS projects, fees on impervious surfaces, and subsidies for green infrastructure—can accelerate implementation. Governments, municipalities, and private investors must align efforts to embed NbS into urban planning and water management frameworks.

Beyond financial mechanisms, knowledge-sharing platforms and collaborative networks are essential for scaling NbS adoption. Creating structured spaces for inter-municipal cooperation, partnerships with research institutions, and cross-sector dialogues will ensure that best practices, case studies, and technical guidance are widely accessible.

Finally, effective public engagement and education are essential for addressing resistance to NbS. By leveraging storytelling, real-world success stories, and community-led initiatives, interested parties can gain a deeper understanding of NbS benefits, fostering widespread support and a commitment to sustainable water management across Canada.

8.3.1 Policy Mechanisms and Financial Incentives

The successful implementation of NbS for water management in Canada requires strong policy support and financial mechanisms. A fragmented regulatory landscape complicates adoption, making it essential to establish targeted policies that incentivize investment in NbS. Governments at all levels can introduce various policy tools to encourage NbS adoption:

• Tax incentives: Property tax reductions for landowners who integrate NbS, such as rain gardens, green roofs, or constructed wetlands.
• Impervious surface fees: Charges on surfaces that prevent water infiltration to promote green infrastructure development.
• Subsidies and grants: Financial assistance for property-level and municipal NbS projects, ensuring accessibility for smaller communities and under-resourced regions.
• Expedited permitting: Could be considered for some NbS projects where certain conditions (e.g. community consultation, prior funding) are met.

Beyond direct financial incentives, innovative funding mechanisms can help municipalities and Indigenous communities overcome initial financial and capacity barriers. Pre-development funding models provide financial resources before project initiation, ensuring adequate planning and implementation support. Additionally, governments should establish dedicated funding streams to sustain long-term NbS projects and maintenance.

To further strengthen NbS integration, economic frameworks should recognize their value. Natural capital accounting and climate risk assessments can help quantify NbS benefits and attract investment. Regulatory clarity is also crucial; developing national and provincial NbS standards will provide municipalities and private interested parties with clear guidance for implementation. Finally, fostering public-private partnerships can enable collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, and conservation groups, creating shared investment models that broaden NbS adoption across Canada.

8.3.2 Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration

The widespread adoption of NbS is hindered by a lack of shared knowledge and coordination across sectors. Establishing structured platforms for knowledge exchange will help facilitate collaboration and ensure best practices are widely accessible. A national NbS knowledge hub could serve as a central repository for research, case studies, and implementation guides.

To improve knowledge sharing, interested parties should focus on:

• Cross-sector partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between municipalities, academia, Indigenous organizations, and conservation groups to co-develop NbS projects.
• Capacity building: Providing training, workshops, and technical assistance to municipalities, Indigenous communities, and developers to build technical expertise.
• Open data access: Enhancing access to monitoring data, hydrological models, and impact assessments to support evidence-based decision-making and broader adoption of NbS approaches.

8.3.3 Addressing Resistance and Building Public Support

Resistance to NbS often arises from misconceptions about their effectiveness, maintenance requirements, or upfront costs. To overcome these barriers, targeted strategies must be implemented to engage the public and key decision-makers.

Key approaches can include:

• Public education and outreach: Using storytelling, visual tools, and public demonstrations to illustrate the benefits of NbS.
• Showcasing successful NbS projects: Highlighting case studies where NbS have demonstrated tangible benefits, such as flood risk reduction and cost savings.
• Engaging local champions: Empowering municipal leaders, Indigenous Knowledge Holders, and community advocates to promote NbS adoption.
• Institutional integration: Encouraging municipal planning and engineering departments to incorporate NbS-friendly policies and practices into existing frameworks.

8.3.4 Expanding Research and Advocacy

Expanding research on NbS effectiveness and advocating for stronger policy support are essential for overcoming knowledge gaps and increasing uptake. Conducting region-specific studies will help quantify the environmental, social, and economic benefits of NbS, providing essential data to inform decision-making and investment strategies.

To strengthen research and advocacy efforts, interested parties should focus on:

• Targeted research: Conducting detailed, region-specific studies that quantify NbS benefits in different environmental contexts.
• Standardized monitoring and evaluation: Developing consistent methodologies for tracking the effectiveness of NbS projects to build confidence among policymakers and practitioners.
• Policy advocacy: Collaborating with conservation groups, research institutions, and municipalities to push for stronger NbS policies and to address existing regulatory barriers at national and provincial levels.
• Indigenous-led research: Expanding funding and ensuring representation in NbS governance structures to integrate traditional ecological knowledge into solutions.

By prioritizing research, advocacy, and policy alignment, Canada can position NbS as a fundamental component of its water management and climate adaptation strategies.

9. Conclusion

The Workshop Agreement on Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Water Management provides practical recommendations for integrating NbS into water management strategies across Canada. It reflects input from diverse interested parties, including municipalities, conservation authorities, researchers, and policymakers, and outlines steps to address challenges like water quality, flood risks, and drought resilience.

The Workshop Agreement emphasizes a structured approach to NbS implementation, starting with thorough assessments of ecosystems and water systems, early engagement from interested parties, and alignment with regional priorities and national goals, such as those in Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy. Real-world examples, like Vancouver’s Rain City Strategy and Manitoba’s water retention projects, highlight how NbS can provide measurable benefits, including improved water quality, reduced flood risks, enhanced biodiversity, and cost savings compared to traditional infrastructure.

Scaling up NbS requires continued efforts to develop adaptable standards, incorporate Indigenous knowledge into planning, and foster cross-sector collaboration. Policy mechanisms such as tax incentives, grants, and innovative funding tools can support broader adoption, while education and outreach efforts can address misconceptions and build public support for these solutions.

This Workshop Agreement offers a foundation for advancing NbS adoption in Canada. Through collaboration, practical implementation, and sustained commitment, NbS can address pressing water management challenges while promoting environmental sustainability, community resilience, and economic benefits.

References

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Ellis, K. (2024). Truro-Onslow dyke realignment and tidal wetland habitat restoration project. Presentation at the Nature-based Solutions Workshop.

ESSA Technologies Ltd. (2024). Implementation of nature-based solutions in Canada: Case studies. ESSA Technologies Ltd.

Eyquem, J. (2024). Scaling up nature-based solutions for climate resilience in Canada. Presentation at the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation Workshop, University of Waterloo.

Government of Quebec. (n.d.). Solutions pour s’adapter à l’érosion et à la submersion côtières.

International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). (2023). A strategic vision for enhancing naturalized water retention in Manitoba.

Méthot, J. (2024). Water retention projects in the Canadian Prairies: Challenges and successes. Presentation at the International Institute for Sustainable Development Forum.

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Ouranos. (2016). Cost-benefit analysis of coastal adaptation options in Percé. https://www.ouranos.ca/sites/default/files/2022-07/proj-201419-emart-circe-rapportreg04_en.pdf

Poirier, S. (2024). Developing flexible, adaptable standards for nature-based solutions. Standards Council of Canada.

Projet Montréal. (n.d.). Le plus important parc éponge de Montréal verra le jour dans l’arrondissement de Verdun.

Reuters. (2025, January 13). Canadian insured losses from 2024 weather events reach record C$8.5 billion. Reuters.

Reuters. (2025). Insured damages surpass $8 billion in 2024 due to climate-related disasters in Canada. Reuters Climate Report.

Simoes, J., Puzyreva, M., Roy, D., & Grosshans, R. (2023). Enhancing naturalized water retention in Manitoba. International Institute for Sustainable Development.

Standards Council of Canada (SCC). (n.d.). Standards to support resilience in infrastructure program (SSRIP).

Statistics Canada. (n.d.). Natural capital accounts: Measuring the value of natural assets.

Vincent, L. (2024). The Natural Solutions Initiative: Advancing watershed-scale NbS through collaboration and innovation. Presentation at Simon Fraser University, Action on Climate Team (ACT).

Watkin, A. et al. (2019). Ecosystem-based adaptation for water management in Canada: Opportunities and challenges. Climate Change Adaptation Journal, 24(2), 45-60.

Zimmer, C. (2024). Flood risk management in the Credit Valley Watershed: The Risk and Return on Investment Tool (RRIT). Presentation at the Credit Valley Conservation Annual Meeting.

Appendix A. List of Participants and Interested Parties

Alice Tremblay – Government of Canada – free agent

Amanda Lynch – City of Ottawa

Christine Zimmer – Credit Valley Conservation

Dan Cox – Manitoba Association of Watersheds

Dimple Roy – Natural Infrastructure for Water Solutions (NIWS) IISD

Emily Amon – Green Communities Canada

Helen Languille – Halifax Regional Municipality

Jessica Akande – Canadian Water Network

Jessica Wilson – DHI

Jo-Anne Rzadki – Conservation Ontario

Joanna Eyquem – Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation

Josée Méthot – Natural Infrastructure for Water Solutions (NIWS) IISD

Kirsten Ellis – CBWES Inc

Lauren Vincent – Action on Climate Team – Simon Fraser University

Lucie Robidoux – Commission for Environmental Cooperation of North America

Marie Dugue – Ville de Montréal

Marie-Claire Doyle – Environment and Climate Change Canada

Melanie Bateman – Congress of Aboriginal Peoples

Melanie Randolph – Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)

Melissande Gaucher – Infrastructure Canada

Michelle Sawka – Asset Management Ontario (AMONTario)

Micheline Ayoub – Future Earth / Sustainability in the Digital Age

Mimi O’Handley – Ecology Action Centre – Coastal & Water Team

Milena McWatt – Land Stewardship Centre

Mélanie Glorieux – The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA)

Namrata Shrestha – Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)

Robb Lukes – City of Vancouver

Sarah Primeau – Stewardship Centre for BC

Sebastien Renard – Parks Canada

Sophie Séguin-Lamarche – Victoriaville, QC – Bureau du développement durable

Trevor Shiomi – Parks Canada

Zemina Meghji – Environment and Climate Change Canada

Zita Botelho – Indigenous Watersheds Initiative (IWI)

Appendix B. Workshop Agenda

Day 1 – October 29, 2024: Setting the Context and Exploring NbS for Water Management

12:00-12:15 pm EDT	1.1	Welcome and Opening Remarks   Speakers: Future Earth, Facilitator
12:15-12:30 pm EDT	1.2	Context Setting: The Role of NbS in Water Management Speakers: Joanna Eyquem (Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, University of Waterloo)
12:30-12:50 pm EDT	1.3	Embracing a Holistic ‘One Water’ Approach: Leveraging Vancouver’s NbS Approaches for Integrated Water Management in Urban Environments Speakers: Robb Lukes (Green Infrastructure Implementation, City of Vancouver)
12:50-1:20 pm EDT	1.4	Case Studies: NbS for Water Management in Action (Plenary) Josée Méthot (IISD – International Institute for Sustainable Development) Kirsten Ellis (CBWES Inc.) Christine Zimmer (Credit Valley Conservation) Lauren Vincent (ACT – Action on Climate Team, Simon Fraser University)
1:20-1:30 pm EDT		Break
1:30-2:00 pm EDT	1.5	Breakout 1 – Current Status of NbS for Water Management in Canada   Objective: Discuss the current implementation of NbS in water management to address water quantity and quality issues, focusing on identifying existing gaps and opportunities. Report back on breakout discussions. Discussion question(s): What is the current status of NbS for water management in your region? What gaps do you see in the current implementation of NbS for water management, and what opportunities could be leveraged to fill those gaps? What policy, technical, or financial barriers are hindering the broader adoption of NbS, and how can they be addressed?
2:00-2:30 pm EDT	1.6	Day 1 Wrap-Up and Overview of Day 2 (Plenary) Speakers: Facilitator Objective: Summary of Day 1 discussions, key takeaways, and brief preview of the Day 2 agenda.

Day 2 – October 31, 2024: The Use of Nature-based Solutions to Manage Water Quality and Quantity

12:00-12:15 pm EDT	2.1	Recap of Day 1 and Introduction to Day 2 (Plenary) Speakers: Facilitator Objective: Quick recap of Day 1 discussions and introduction to the objectives of Day 2
12:15-12:45 pm EDT	2.2	Breakout 2 – Addressing Challenges, Mitigating Risks, and Ensuring Effective Implementation of NbS Objective: To discuss the challenges of implementing and scaling up NbS for water management in Canada, compare NbS with gray infrastructure, and identify actions to minimize maladaptation risks (i.e., monitoring and adaptive management plans and climate responsive design). Report back on breakout discussions. Discussion question(s): What are the key challenges you face in implementing NbS for water management, and how have you attempted to address them? How can we mitigate potential risks such as maladaptation, inadequate funding, or community pushback when scaling up NbS projects? What strategies have proven effective for ensuring that NbS initiatives are successfully implemented and maintained over time?
12:45-1:15 pm EDT	2.3	The Role of Standards in Supporting the Implementation of NbS for Water Quality and Quantity (Plenary) Speakers: Stephanie Poirier (Standards Council of Canada (SCC)) Objective: To discuss standards, methodologies, and technical guidance for implementing NbS and explore how standardized approaches can improve adoption of NbS for water management in Canada. Discussion question(s): How can standardized approaches help support and even streamline the implementation of NbS across different regions or sectors in Canada? What gaps exist in current standards related to NbS, and how could these be filled to better support water quality and quantity management?
1:15-1:35 pm EDT	2.4	Breakout 3 – Resistance to and Acceptance of NbS for Water Quality and Quantity Objective: To discuss the steps required to implement NbS for water management, compare NbS to gray infrastructure, and identify the roles and responsibilities of key interested parties involved. Report back on breakout discussions. Discussion question(s): What are the main sources of resistance to the adoption of NbS in your experience, and how have you or your organization addressed them? What has been most effective in gaining acceptance and support for NbS from interested parties, such as local communities, businesses, or government agencies? How can we communicate the value and benefits of NbS more effectively to overcome resistance and build greater support?
1:35-1:45 pm EDT		Break
1:45-2:15 pm EDT	2.5	Plenary Final Discussions and Feedback to Inform the Workshop Agreement Speakers: Facilitator Objective: To collaboratively outline the key elements of the Workshop Agreement, identify recommendations for increasing the adoption of NbS in water management and addressing future needs, and gather brief final comments from participants.
2:15-2:30 pm EDT	2.6	Conclusion and Next Steps Speakers: Facilitator Objective: Summary of key outcomes from both days and overview of the next steps in finalizing the Workshop Agreement.

Appendix C. Resources for Implementation of Nature-based Solutions

Case studies presented during the Workshop

Flood Risk Management in the Credit Valley Watershed: The Risk and Return on Investment Tool (RRIT)

The Role of Nature-based Solutions in Water Management – Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation

Water Retention on the Canadian Prairies – IISD Natural Infrastructure for Water Solutions

The Natural Solutions Initiative: Advancing Watershed-Scale NbS Through Collaboration and Innovation

Vancouver’s One Water Approach – City of Vancouver

Online Resources

IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions: first edition (2020)

Guidance for using the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions: first edition (2020)

Nature-based Solutions for Water Management: A Primer. UN Environment-DHI, UN Environment and IUCN 2018.

Nature Canada: working toward nature based climate solutions. Examples and toolkit

TransCoastal Adaptations: Centre for Nature-based Solutions  (Regional centre of expertise in Nova Scotia)

CLIMAtlantic CLIMAtlantic facilitates access to data and information that supports adaptation to climate change in Atlantic Canada through collaboration, networking, and partnerships.

New Brunswick Environmental Network

Stewardship Centre for BC – Green Shores Program: The initiative promotes healthy shore environments that provide significant environmental, economic, and social values to coastal communities.

Global Center on Adaptation – Webinar (2024): Integrated Coastal Zone Management for Climate Resilience

Future Earth Database of Nature-based Solutions in Canada. Are you working on Nature-based Solutions in Canada? We want to hear from you. You may submit your project here. This public database will contribute to monitoring, informing decisions regarding NbS, and accelerating Canada’s climate and biodiversity targets in a just, equitable, and inclusive manner.

Appendix D. Glossary of Terms

1. Nature-based Solutions (NbS): Strategies that use natural processes and ecosystems to address environmental challenges, such as managing water quality and quantity, while providing co-benefits like biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
2. Wetland restoration: The process of rehabilitating degraded wetlands to improve their ecological functions, such as flood regulation, water filtration, and biodiversity support.
3. Riparian buffer zones: Vegetated areas near streams and rivers that help control erosion, filter pollutants, and provide wildlife habitats.
4. Green infrastructure: Sustainable solutions for urban environments, including green roofs, bioswales, and permeable pavements, designed to manage stormwater and reduce urban heat islands.
5. Urban greening: The incorporation of vegetation in urban areas to improve air quality, provide recreational spaces, and mitigate flooding.
6. Carbon sequestration: The process by which plants and soil absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping mitigate climate change.
7. Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR): A metric used to evaluate the economic efficiency of a project, calculated by dividing the total benefits by the total costs. A BCR greater than 1 indicates cost-effectiveness.
8. Gray infrastructure: Conventional man-made structures like dams, levees, and storm drains used for water management and flood control.
9. Standards to Support Resilience in Infrastructure Program (SSRIP): A 5-year initiative led by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and funded by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) that strengthen infrastructure against climate risks like wildfires, flooding, and permafrost thaw. SSRIP focuses on integrating climate resilience into the design, construction, operation, and decommissioning of infrastructure while promoting the adoption of risk management approaches and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) across industries.
10. Living standards: Dynamic guidelines that evolve based on emerging data, environmental changes, and advances in technology, ensuring long-term relevance and applicability.
11. Floodplain restoration: The process of restoring natural floodplains to enhance water retention, improve ecosystem health, and reduce flood risks.
12. Natural capital accounting: A framework for quantifying the economic value of natural assets, such as wetlands and forests, to inform policy and financial decisions.
13. Sponge parks: Urban parks designed to absorb rainwater and reduce flooding while providing recreational spaces.
14. Impervious Surface Fees: Charges imposed on landowners based on the amount of hard, non-porous surfaces, like asphalt or concrete, to incentivize green infrastructure development.
15. Ecosystem services: Benefits provided by natural ecosystems, such as water purification, climate regulation, and recreational opportunities.
16. Adaptive management: A flexible approach to managing projects, where strategies are adjusted based on monitoring results and changing environmental conditions.
17. Integrated Rainwater Management Plan: A plan that coordinates the use of green and gray infrastructure to manage stormwater, improve water quality, and reduce flooding.
18. Tidal wetland restoration: The reintroduction of tidal flow to coastal wetlands to enhance their ecological functions, such as fish habitat and flood mitigation.
19. Blue-Green infrastructure: A combination of water management (blue) and vegetation-based solutions (green) to enhance urban resilience and sustainability.

Acknowledgements

Future Earth Canada acknowledges that the development of this Workshop Agreement was made possible, in part, by the financial support of the Standards Council of Canada, as part of the Standards to Support Resilience in Infrastructure Program which promotes the development and update of standards and technical guidance to adapt infrastructure to climate change.

The French translation of this report was produced by Concordia University’s Translation Services. Layout and formatting was provided by Sustainability in the Digital Age and Future Earth Canada, with financial support from the Fonds de recherche du Québec (FRQ).