Climate risk and adaptation along supply chains: A case study series

This report outlines the findings of a multiyear research initiative led by the University of Waterloo Climate Institute, in partnership with UNDRR and regional trade and private‑sector networks, examining how companies across Canada and Latin America recognise, assess, and respond to shared climate risks along supply chains. Drawing on engagement with more than 40 companies across sectors such as fresh produce, coffee, textiles, medical equipment, and floriculture, the publication documents how climate extremes, multi‑hazard threats, and infrastructure vulnerabilities disrupt production, logistics, and trade. It highlights the challenges businesses face and presents case studies that illustrate sector‑specific impacts and emerging approaches to climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. 

The report recommends strengthening long‑term, trust‑based partnerships across supply chains; improving transparency, data sharing, and early warning capabilities; and integrating climate risk assessment into business continuity planning. It emphasises the need for coordinated public–private action, including government incentives for adaptation investment, improved procurement models, and the development of centralised climate‑risk databases and sector‑specific contingency frameworks. Lessons learned across the case studies point to the importance of cross‑functional collaboration, targeted pilot investments, and the use of technology to support rapid decision‑making. Overall, the report underscores that effective disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation require system‑wide approaches that extend beyond individual firms to encompass suppliers, infrastructure operators, and government agencies.