From an economic, environmental and social perspective, Canada's coastal zone is of paramount importance. The health and sustainability of the coastal zone affects tourism and recreation, fisheries, transportation, trade and communities. Inclusion of the land-water interface makes the coastal zone sensitive to changes in water levels, wave climate, storminess, ice cover and other climate-related factors. Changes in these variables would result in accelerated rates of shoreline change and present a range of challenges to the sustainability of the coastal zone. Impacts will vary regionally, with significant areas of the Atlantic coast, the Fraser Delta region of British Columbia, and the Beaufort Sea coast recognized as being highly sensitive to sea level rise. Changes in sea-ice cover will likely be the most significant direct impact of climate change for the northern coastal region, whereas changes in water levels will be the key concern along the Atlantic, Pacific and Great Lakes coasts.

Improved understanding of the regional differences will help in targeting adaptation strategies to reduce the vulnerability of the coastal zone. A solid framework for adapting to the impacts of both climate changes and accelerated sea level rise lies in the strategies of retreat, accommodate and protect. Integrative studies of climate change impacts at the local scale, involving physical and social scientists along with stakeholders, are required to properly address the vulnerability of Canada's coastal zone and determine the most appropriate adaptation options. Incorporating these considerations into the long-term planning process will reduce both the net impacts of climate change and the cost of adaptation.