The key sections of the Assessment are described below:

Synthesis Report

A concise overview of what climate change means for Canada. The report will highlight key findings, and discuss commonalities and differences among the regions. It will serve as both an executive summary and a value-added synthesis of the entire Assessment.

Section 1: Introduction/Overview

An introduction to the Assessment, emphasizing its goals and purposes, as well as the importance of understanding vulnerability.

Section 2: Climate and Climate Change in Canada

An overview of the importance of climate and climate change to Canada, with discussion of climatic, social and economic trends that affect exposure to climate. Will also outline future projections for Canada.

Section 3: Regional Chapters

The main content of the Assessment, these chapters will focus on current regional sensitivities and future vulnerabilities to climate and climate change. Case studies will be an important component of these chapters.

The regional chapters are:

• Atlantic Canada
• Quebec
• Ontario
• Prairies
• British Columbia
• The North

Section 4: Canada in an International Context

A broader perspective on climate change impacts and adaptation, which discusses climate change impacts and adaptation with respect to continental effects, oceans, global issues, and Canada’s international obligations.

Section 5: Impacts and Adaptation Research- Capacity, Tools and Moving Forward

An examination of the present state of impacts and adaptation research in Canada, future directions and needs, and moving research to action.