Abstract

This report synthesizes information compiled from input contributed by ACT’s Communities in Jeopardy: Plant, Animal and Human conference participants in April 2008, along with a review of publications from leading authorities researching climate change impacts on biodiversity, and adaptation responses. The purpose of this report is to provide a background summary on the following points of discussion:

• Observed and projected climate changes in BC;
• Observed and expected climate change-induced impacts on biodiversity in BC and northern temperate regions;
• An overview of the state of biodiversity in BC;
• A discussion on the link between biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and the value of natural capital;
• An overview of vulnerable natural and socioeconomic systems in BC;
• An outline for a general adaptation framework that addresses ecosystem resiliency and examines the challenges and opportunities associated with launching adaptation measures in BC.

We intend to use this synthesis of information as a background document to substantiate ACT’s policy recommendations addressing the need to restructure BC’s land and resource governance framework, with the ultimate goal of increasing ecosystem and community resiliency against the current and projected climate change impacts on biodiversity.