Date of Award

2-5-2025

Publication Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.Sc.

Department

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Supervisor

Tirupati Bolisetti

Supervisor

Rajeev Ruparathna

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

The Arctic region of Canada is especially vulnerable to the detrimental consequences of climate change, as projected winter temperatures in the north rise by approximately 3°C to 4°C over the following half-century. The purpose of this research work is to assess the climate resilience of water supply systems in Arctic communities of Canada in given a changing climate. This study investigates how the change in climatic conditions, mainly temperature, precipitation, and snowfall influence the reliability and sustainability of water infrastructures. Based on historical climate data from 1996 to 2023 and projections from a suite of climate models for future periods (2041–2100), the study indicates a rise in temperatures, shift in precipitation patterns, and changes in the variability of snow accumulation for water supply infrastructure. However, the analysis shows that water supply systems in Arctic communities are highly susceptible, primarily because the infrastructure components are exposed to severe climatic conditions. Preliminary findings suggest a frequency of extreme temperature events, both maximum and minimum poses a significant risk to the operational efficiency of water treatment and distribution systems. The study further reveals that the variation in the level of snow accumulation posed a high risk with a score of 49 on all the infrastructure components that were assessed in the year 2008 in the warmer season (spring and summer) which stressed the need for an immediate action to be implemented in managing the water supply system. Moreover, maximum temperature which was assess as a climate risk within the same period 2008 also exhibited a score of 42 and 49 for the water supply components which denotes that theses systems are under high risk therefore required an immediate action was needed to take place. This research contributes to the existing literature on climate resilience in the Arctic communities, highlighting how climatic changes interact in a complex way with water supply systems. Concisely, recommendations are proposed for policymakers, industry players, and stakeholders in the Arctic communities to prioritize climate resilience through policy integration, investing in advanced infrastructure technologies, strengthening community-based adaptation strategies, as well as to promote sustainable water management practices.

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