The project comprised the analysis of climate change risks for all mining infrastructure spread over more than 500 km² of isolated territory in northern Quebec. This infrastructure includes access roads, operations buildings, drainage systems, processing and storage facilities and maritime logistics points.
Based on more than 30 technical documents and interviews with field teams, CIMA+ produced a detailed climate risk map, taking into account historical and projected data for three 30-year periods (2011–2040, 2041–2070 and 2071–2100). More than 40 climate indicators were analyzed for multiple climate hazards (permafrost thaw, extreme precipitation, freeze-thaw cycles, storms, etc.) to measure their impact on various infrastructure components.
A total of 28 critical climate risks were identified and classified according to their severity (medium, high or extreme). For each one, adaptation pathways were developed using the Climate change adaptation guide for the mining sector produced by The Mining Association of Canada, with up to 4 response options per risk, tailored to Canadian Royalties’ tolerance level. Trigger points were defined over time in order to plan interventions before critical thresholds are reached.
Finally, a multi-criteria analysis based on cost, feasibility, effectiveness and acceptability indicators was used to prioritize the most promising adaptation measures. The entire process took place over 6 months, with ongoing dialogue between the CIMA+ and Canadian Royalties teams.