ID: 1965
Presenting Author: Haina Luo
Session: 686 - Climate Change Impact Assessment: Countering Misinformation with Science
Status: pending
This project models coastal vulnerability in Vancouver to identify erosion-prone areas, support climate adaptation planning, and engage communities through public outreaching efforts...
By the year 2100, a 1m sea level rise is expected, intensifying the risks of coastal flooding and erosion due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events. In response, the City of Vancouver is working to integrate coastal vulnerability into its long-term planning framework, accounting for both rising sea levels and competing land use pressures. Therefore, the identification of the most vulnerable coastal areas that require immediate protection is essential for decision makers and city planners.
Using geomorphology, habitat and bathymetry data to inform the InVest Coastal Vulnerability model, a rapid assessment of vulnerability can be achieved. To address potential resolution mismatches and outdated datasets, Setinel-2 satellite imagery at 10 m resolution is applied as a cross reference to enhance the robustness of the modeling. The methodology involves two key stages: (i) identifying erosion-prone areas using the InVEST model, and (ii) evaluating shoreline retreat under multiple sea level rise scenarios developed in collaboration with the City of Vancouver.
The model is expected to demonstrate that the Fraser River foreshore areas would exhibit high Exposure Index and require immediate attention. Collaboration with the City of Vancouver is underway to incorporate findings into the Official Community Plan (OCP) and to engage local communities in understanding and preparing for coastal change. An in-person information session will be held in January 2026 to share the findings and introduce the science behind coastal vulnerability modeling to a broader audience.
Haina Luo is a Biologist in Training and Environmental Scientist at AtkinsRéalis. She earned her Master’s in Land and Water Systems and Bachelor’s in Natural Resources Conservation from UBC.