Climate Justice Framework for the City of Hamilton

Abstract

The Hamilton Climate Change Impact Adaptation Plan (CCIAP) is an evidence-based strategy designed to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on Hamilton’s infrastructure, businesses, and residents. Developed by the City of Hamilton's Office of Climate Change Initiatives (OCCI), the plan aims to safeguard the community by integrating climate forecasts to reduce costs, minimize health impacts, and enhance community resilience. Recognizing the need for inclusive perspectives, the OCCI is working to incorporate a climate justice framework that acknowledges diverse community viewpoints, barriers, and concerns.

The urgency of addressing climate change is evident in Hamilton and globally, as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions drive rising global temperatures, escalating costs, health issues, and quality-of-life challenges—particularly for vulnerable populations. However, traditional climate frameworks often lack equitable representation of underrepresented community voices. To address this gap, the proposed climate justice framework seeks to guide Hamilton's decision-making processes by embedding equity in mitigation and adaptation strategies.

This project involves rigorous research to develop a Hamilton-specific Climate Justice Framework, intended to serve as a resource for: (1) informing city planning and engagement processes, (2) ensuring equitable decision-making in climate actions, and (3) fostering discussions on intersecting themes and the historical context of climate injustice. By embedding climate justice into decision-making, this framework aims to promote resilience and equity for all members of the Hamilton community.