Note: This project used the PIEVC Protocol for various parts of the work, as well as additional surrounding work. An example of how the PIEVC Protocol can be integrated into large projects of wider scope.

This study evaluates the climate-related vulnerabilities and related costs and benefits of the Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road (TCWR), a mine access road built mainly over frozen lakes in the northeastern region of the Northwest Territories (NWT). The TCWR is the main access road for three active diamond mines, as well as one that will be active in the next year, and is the busiest heavy-haul ice road in the world. Diamond mining in this region has been a major contributor to the NWT economy. The road is operated by a joint venture between three mining companies, with contracted support for engineering, maintenance and security. Companies transport goods via the winter road to supply year-round operations. When the road season is cut short, supplies must be transported by plane or helicopter, which greatly increases costs. One of the main goods being transported to the mines is diesel to power mine operations.