Action Types Filtered by Communities

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

For new residential Principal Uses with separate private Parking Spaces, including Single Detached Dwellings or Townhouses, one Energized Outlet capable of
providing Level 2 Charing or higher shall be provided for each Dwelling Unit. Energized Outlets are not required for new accessory residential units.
For new residential Principal Uses with common parking areas, all required Parking Spaces for Dwelling Units are required to have raceways or conduit, with drawstrings capable of providing level 2 Charging or higher, including all electrical equipment. Additionally, all required Parking Spaces or one Space per Dwelling Unit, whichever is less, are required to have an adjacent Energized Outlet capable of providing Level 2 Charging or higher.
https://www.abbotsford.ca/sites/default/files/2022-09/EV%20Technical%20Bulletin.pdf

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – Collaboration with other local governments and internal partners has led to a “Made in Abbotsford” solution for adding and retrofitting civic buildings in ways that recognize affordability, the circumstances of the community, and goals for net zero emissions. The Green Buildings Policy is embedded within existing funding, design, and construction processes and seeks to demystify the reduction of GHG emissions from new and existing civic buildings.

2018 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2019 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – Implementation of a three-stream waste collection service that targeted organics diversion along with recycling and garbage in Port Alberni and the West Coast of Vancouver Island has resulted in a 45% reduction of curbside waste going to the landfill in those regions. The program roll-out also involved local First Nations and multiple community groups who assisted with cart storage and delivery to residents and led to an ongoing agreement with Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation for cart delivery, repairs, and maintenance services.

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

For new developments, set a policy to cluster homes near transit routes and facilitate the growth of shared transportation solutions, and require amenity packages that contribute to alternative transportation options.

For new developments, set a policy to cluster homes near transit routes and facilitate the growth of shared transportation solutions, and require amenity packages that contribute to alternative transportation options.

Add an e bike with visible branding to the BIM vehicle fleet; set policy to encourage its use

Support road sharing initiatives that promote a culture of active transportation.

Accelerate investments in active transportation infrastructure above the level identified in the Bowen Island’s Transportation Plan, so that by 2030, a majority of Bowen Island residents have access to a system of multi use transportation
paths aligning with the recommendations of
BC’s 2019 Active Transportation Strategy.

Add electric vehicles to the municipal fleet where appropriate.

Work with TransLink, BC Ferries and community organizations to ensure residents traveling beyond Horseshoe Bay have reliable, convenient alternatives to the private vehicle through expanded foot passenger marine and express bus services.

Work with community organizations and TransLink to develop a comprehensive and possibly fare free public transit system that serves all Island neighbourhoods and aligns with new options for foot passenger marine service.

Amend BIM’s Land Use Bylaw to require all parking spac es in new multi family homes to be wired for an outlet capable of providing electric vehicle charging and create incentives for retrofitting existing multi family homes.

Amend BIM’s Land Use Bylaw to require electric vehicle charging capacity in at least one parking space for new single family homes and create incentives for retrofitting existing homes.

Look for opportunities to develop fast charging stations on Bowen to support the introduction of heavy duty e vehicles, such as buses.

Publicly call for BC Ferries to continue transitioning to a fleet that will produce zero operational greenhouse gas emissions, and work with the Province and Islands Trust, BIM Committees, local action groups and others to support this goal.

Call for BC Ferries to emphasize pedestrian and active transportation amenities rather than increasing reliance on personal vehicles, such as by placing higher rate increases on vehicles than pedestrians.

Work with Metro Vancouver, the provincial government, community groups, and the private sector to develop an on island composting system to process local organic waste, and where possible compostable plastic, into a resource for local use.

Work with Metro Vancouver, the provincial government, community groups, and the private sector to develop an on island composting system to process local organic waste, and where possible compostable plastic, into a resource for local use.

Facilitate the development of an on island community centre and health care centre.

Encourage the development of shared, fully serviced office space in Snug Cove.

Explore how improvements in internet capacity could reduce transportation needs while enhancing local economic development.

When considering new residential developments, give priority to those located in or near Snug Cove.

Encourage the development of local agriculture.

Consider, through appropriate zoning, the on island location of businesses, including light industrial, serving Bowen.

Encourage small businesses at the neighbourhood level such as creation of small pop up businesses in the outlying areas of the Island.

Work with the construction industry and the community to prepare for higher levels of the Step Code, to achieve net zero ready new buildings by 2030.

Work with other levels of government, community organizations and the private sector to develop a program, including incentives, rebates and education, for home and business owners to cost-effectively upgrade building energy efficiency, and replace propane and oil heating with efficient electric heating and cooling systems such as heat pumps.

Require all new public buildings to be built to meet the requirements of the top step of the BC Energy Step Code to the extent that it is feasible.

Include, in the Asset Management Plan, assessments of the vulnerability and risks to infrastructure from climate impacts.

Develop and disseminate educational materials about green infrastructure (natural assets, enhanced assets and engineered assets).

Develop and disseminate educational materials about green infrastructure (natural assets, enhanced assets and engineered assets).

Develop a stormwater management master plan

Seek funding from senior governments for flood planning and mitigation activities.

Develop development permitting and other regulatory tools in fire zones, shoreline areas and other vulnerable places.

Develop plans, including anticipated timing and estimated costs, to reduce vulnerability and risks where possible and adapt to unavoidable changes

Update vulnerability maps and identify highrisk areas, such as those vulnerable to sealevel rise, restrict development appropriately and promote natural shoreline principles

Assess floodway capacity consideration for increased winter precipitation. Determine culvert capacities and establish new Flood Construction Levels (FCL) where appropriate.

Ensure the five-year financial plan includes appropriate financing for the creation and/or implementation of adaptation-related plans.

Reduce the stress on engineered and natural water systems by assessing the feasibility of requiring rainwater catchment systems on new buildings and encouraging their use on existing buildings.

Investigate opportunities, identify barriers around greywater usage.

Investigate water conservation strategies

Require all new public buildings to be built to meet the requirements of the top step of the BC Energy Step Code to the extent that it is feasible.

Continue to implement the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

Consider safe access and egress to neighbourhoods in land-use planning.

Consider safe access and egress to neighbourhoods in land-use planning.

Encourage and support site appropriate FireSmart planning.

Establish a Development Permit Area for the entire island, requiring all new buildings to have FireSmart protections such as fireresistant roofing, siding, decks, and other fire suppression systems.

Continue to adhere to Official Community Plan Policies, environmental protection bylaw provisions and create a conservation-oriented development/design policy to help protect forests, wetlands, shorelines and environmentally sensitive areas.

Work with the Province of British Columbia, Metro Vancouver and the Islands Trust to remove the logging designation from the Island’s Crown Lands.

Work with the Province of British Columbia, Metro Vancouver and the Islands Trust to remove the logging designation from the Island’s Crown Lands.

Increase protection of forest lands by working with Metro Vancouver to expand Crippen Park into the Crown Lands.

Engage in re-greening projects where applicable.

Develop a water conservation master plan, including but not limited to, water source protection, storage, collection, site permeability, and infrastructure opportunities on Crown and Municipal land, and guidelines for water-wise landscaping and irrigation protocols.

With the intent of balancing FireSmart principles with potential loss of protective and carbon sequestering forested land, develop a clearcutting bylaw to regulate clearcutting activities on private land.

Conduct a comprehensive Ecological Assets Inventory identifying and quantifying the value of the natural systems in terms of biodiversity values, carbon sequestration properties, and other characteristics.

Where gaps in ecological protection exist, develop relevant regulatory and enforcement tools.

Retain ecological connections through an expanded greenways network as outlined in BIM’s Parks Plan and other relevant plans.

Protect identified ecological assets through management plans, education and regulation.

Collaborate with local farm artisans, agriculture alliances and food resiliency groups.

Through education, workshops and advisory groups address soil fertility and its ability to store carbon by encouraging regenerative agricultural practices.

Enhance agricultural zoning provisions in Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaw updates.

Develop incentives for on-island food resiliency and food production.

Delegate responsibility to Environment Staff with assistance from the Communications Coordinator to develop an outreach and engagement strategy, following the
Communicating with the Public Policy, with emphasis on:
• Presenting to BIM committees and volunteer
organizations.
• Obtaining community feedback by hosting a
workshop.
• Including elements of the Climate Action
Strategy in Bowen tourism and branding.
• Using experts for presentations when
needed.
• Revising actions to accommodate public
ideas and priorities.
• Seeking consensus on actions and identifying
champions to promote and assist in
implementation.
• Collaborating with community groups to host
climate action events and to co-produce
education materials.
• Collaborating with Islands Trust, Metro
Vancouver, and other organizations with
similar goals to engage with the public and
encourage participation.

Develop incentives for on-island food resiliency and food production.

Delegate responsibility to Environment Staff with assistance from the Communications Coordinator to develop an outreach and engagement strategy, following the Communicating with the Public Policy, with emphasis on:
• Presenting to BIM committees and volunteer
organizations.
• Obtaining community feedback by hosting a
workshop.
• Including elements of the Climate Action
Strategy in Bowen tourism and branding.
• Using experts for presentations when
needed.
• Revising actions to accommodate public
ideas and priorities.
• Seeking consensus on actions and identifying
champions to promote and assist in
implementation.
• Collaborating with community groups to host
climate action events and to co-produce
education materials.
• Collaborating with Islands Trust, Metro
Vancouver, and other organizations with
similar goals to engage with the public and
encourage participation.

2016 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – Involving six regional districts and more than 40 municipalities and First Nations communities, this project added nearly 60 level 2 charging stations on almost 2,800 km of highway from south of Kamloops to Prince George, north to Fort Nelson, along Highway 16, and onto Haida Gwaii. Charge North covers an area equivalent to the size of Italy and has demonstrated the value of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to leverage additional investment while providing EV charging in many rural communities that previously had no reliable public charging infrastructure.

Zero Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning January 01, 2024

Zero Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning in 2025

All required parking spaces for new dwelling units, excluding visitor parking spaces, secondary suite parking spaces and new parking spaces servicing existing dwelling units, must include an energized outlet capable of providing Level 2 charging (see definition in Section 2.1) for an electric vehicle. Each energized outlet must be labelled for its intended use.

Zero Carbon Strong (EL-3) beginning January 01, 2024

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Conduct an infrastructure risk assessment to determine priority risks to assets under
climate projections

Develop plans to protect infrastructure and/or relocate sites based on risk.

Study stormwater system vulnerability under climate change, and plan for upgrades to accommodate future precipitation projections.

Establish a Flood Management Bylaw.

Increase severe weather resiliency of docking facilities, including planned upgrades.

Proactively prevent damage to trees and power lines.

Establish a monitoring system for current and future precipitation intensities, reservoir levels, river flows/levels and sea level rise, sharing information so that data can inform planning decisions in City and community.

Create a sea level rise education tool.

Explore potential regulatory and financial mechanisms to increase pervious surfaces and rainwater management at the homeowner, subdivision, new commercial, and light industrial levels

Increase use of green infrastructure on public and private property.

Review and update guidelines or requirements for erosion and run-off prevention.

Move toward establishing an Integrated Watershed Management approach to improve the health and resilience of the watersheds.

Develop a framework for monitoring and evaluation of ecosystem health and ecosystem
services, identifying risks due to climate impacts and extreme weather.

Increase education for City staff and community on invasive species and pests, continue
to manage areas of invasive species within the City’s parks and public spaces, prepare for emerging invasive species threats as they appear, and develop consolidated invasive

Increase education for City staff and community on invasive species and pests, continue
to manage areas of invasive species within the City’s parks and public spaces, prepare for emerging invasive species threats as they appear, and develop consolidated invasive

Identify opportunities to support viable conditions for marine habitat and species

Reduce riparian harm and strengthen protection through policy tools and guidance.

Develop an Environmentally Sensitive Area Management policy.

Determine limits to tourism in sensitive areas and shut down vulnerable areas during high-risk periods.

Conduct a tree canopy assessment to determine trees vulnerable to wind damage, changing temperature patterns, and other climate impacts.

Plan for redundancy of critical routes for emergency response and flow of goods and services.

Develop a strategy to monitor, plan for, and mitigate flooding due to dam breach.

Build community capacity for personal preparedness and to reduce health risks associated with extreme weather.

Implement the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

Create, review, and update Emergency Response and Recovery Plans relative to Campbell River’s climate hazards.

Establish more designated and accessible areas of refuge from extreme weather events.

Develop network of support for populations in vulnerable situations including seniors, youth, and those experiencing homelessness.

Communicate climate change-influenced health risks to the community.

Support tourism sector in understanding the changing climate, sector-specific risks, and identifying opportunities to adapt and diversify.

Support local businesses (i.e. fishing industry) in identifying and mitigating climate-related risks

Develop a climate change communications strategy for the community of Campbell River.

Integrate climate change adaptation into day-to-day decision making and practices at the City.

Integrate climate change adaptation into day-to-day decision making and practices at the City.

Monitor and track implementation of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan and report on progress annually or biennially.

Facilitate further dialogue with local First Nations to go through an action planning process and determine how the City can best support action implementation in a way that honours Indigenous sovereignty and autonomy.

2018 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2019 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Winner

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Integrate and standardize the climate lens framework across processes

Develop internal carbon pricing policies and procedures

Identify internal funding sources for climate action

Support staff capacity building and coordination

Investigate how Indigenous knowledge can inform climate action at the CRD

Incorporate climate hazards and vulnerabilities into corporate CRD emergency response plans

Monitor Regional Growth Strategy (RGS)

Integrate climate impacts into Juan de Fuca land use plans and policies

Collect and share pertinent energy, emissions, climate projections and vulnerability data

Identify innovative actions to close the regional 2030 emissions reduction gap

Coordinate regional climate action, collaboration and capacity building among local governments and interested First Nations

Incorporate regional climate projections into electoral area emergency planning and enhance FireSmart efforts

Coordinate with emergency management stakeholders on planning and public outreach activities related to climate risks

Investigate Transition Salt Spring Island 2.0 Climate Plan implementation

Administer and track the new Green Fleet Policy

Develop electric vehicle (EV) adoption and right-sizing plan for the corporate fleet

Develop EV infrastructure plan for the corporate fleet

Investigate the feasibility of bio-based diesel supply and storage

Develop a regionwide approach to transportation demand management and safety policy

Collect, analyze and distribute transportation planning data regionally

Accelerate infrastructure improvements that support active transportation

Lead and support regional education programs focused on zero-emission mobility

Support acceleration of transit improvements and increased service

Implement Regional EV Charging Roadmap

Improve internet access on Southern Gulf Islands

Develop and implement a corporate Green Building Policy

Develop and implement a Strategic Energy Management Plan

Conduct energy studies for CRD facilities to identify priority emission reduction and energy efficiency projects

Complete identified high impact retrofits to CRD facilities

Pursue climate friendly development and retrofits for CRHC and CRHD facilities

Consider climate impacts in risk assessments and infrastructure upgrades

Implement a Regional Energy Retrofit Program

Develop, deliver and support building-related energy, emissions and water education

Support acceleration of regional building energy benchmarking and local government regulation approaches

Coordinate high performance building policy support and capacity building activities

Collect and share data and research on building energy use and emissions

Promote green infrastructure and improved stormwater management approaches

Understand climate impacts on groundwater resources in Juan de Fuca Electoral Area

Investigate regional renewable energy and storage potential

Provide regional and local ecological data to support planning and policy efforts

Coordinate regional invasive species program

Support regional forest and urban tree programs

Support Indigenous led monitoring and restoration programs

Zero Carbon Strong (EL-3) beginning January 1, 2024

Zero Carbon Strong (EL-3) beginning January 1, 2024

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – Created by the Capital Regional District, this program connects homeowners throughout the CRD’s 13 municipalities and three electoral areas with an energy concierge who provides personal support such as a virtual home energy consultation, quote comparisons, and rebate navigation – all with the intention of increasing the number of low-carbon, home energy retrofits. Since launching in November 2022, the program has attracted more than 450 participants.

2016 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2017 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2018 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Winner

2021 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Honourable Mention

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Winner – This nomination showcases the work undertaken by the City of Victoria, District of Saanich, District of Central Saanich, and Capital Regional District to engage with building professionals and develop the policy and bylaw amendments necessary to adopt the Zero Carbon Step Code (ZCSC) before it was even rolled out by the Government of BC. As a result, the municipalities will be the first in BC to have the ZCSC take effect, and the RD will be the first regional government to adopt the ZCSC. Their collaboration will also provide industry with predictability over the long term.

2024 The Extreme Heat Information Portal consists of an interactive, online map and accompanying research providing a highly localized picture of heat vulnerability in the capital region. The map combines two original indices to show where demographic characteristics (such as heart disease, substance use disorder, low income, or living alone) overlap with building characteristics (such as age, height, dwelling type), showing areas where vulnerability to heat is heightened.

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – Involving six regional districts and more than 40 municipalities and First Nations communities, this project added nearly 60 level 2 charging stations on almost 2,800 km of highway from south of Kamloops to Prince George, north to Fort Nelson, along Highway 16, and onto Haida Gwaii. Charge North covers an area equivalent to the size of Italy and has demonstrated the value of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to leverage additional investment while providing EV charging in many rural communities that previously had no reliable public charging infrastructure.

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2016 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2019 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2019 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – partnership with Regional District of East Kootenay, Regional District of Central Kootenay, Regional District of Kootenay Boundary

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Commercial – office, retail (Groups D or E, Part 3): Built to BC Building Code until October 31, 2024

Continue to focus development in the Urban Settlement Areas through residential infill and densification. Furthermore, support opportunities to
incorporate local business areas and other amenities close to residential infill with the goal of increasing the number of homes within 400 metres of: work
places, transit stops, bike paths, grocery stores, elementary schools, and parks. Compact and complete communities encourage trips on foot, by bicycle or
transit rather than car.
Identify additional opportunities to support reduced vehicle travel, including supporting home-based businesses with appropriate bylaws, and supporting
neighbourhood commercial within neighbourhoods located within urban settlement areas. Incorporate low carbon considerations in new infrastructure
designs (e.g. safe routes for all modes, roundabouts that reduce idling).

Create an active transportation plan that outlines a policy and key actions for supporting a significant mode shift toward walking, cycling, ride share and transit within the community.

Develop a community electric vehicle strategy that includes a plan for increasing charging facilities at key locations throughout the community, considering requirements for charging stations in new residential and commercial developments, and providing parking spots for EVs only. EV sales continue to increase quarterly in BC, however, the share of new passenger car sales that are electric is still less than 10% in BC. Building supportive infrastructure is critical to assisting with a more rapid transition toward electric vehicles in our community.

Actively connect community members with existing provincial, utility or other programs such as the Clean Energy Vehicle Program by raising awareness through marketing, social media, and community events.

Collaborate with the Capital Regional District, neighbouring municipalities, researchers and local industry to identify and support opportunities to generate, distribute and/or purchase biofuels or renewable natural gas in the region.

Develop and implement a BC Energy Step Code adoption strategy that goes beyond the base BC Building Code, beginning with the lower steps (1-3).
Monitor implementation and increase requirements over time as industry builds capacity and costs come down – aiming to implement the upper steps (4-
5) by 2025.
Support development of buildings that go beyond the required steps by adjusting development cost charge reductions, or providing other incentives such
as building permit rebates.

Establish a Deep Green Retrofits program with a target of having 3% of existing buildings (residential and commercial) undertake energy efficiency retrofits
and install zero emission home heating and hot water systems annually. Typical renovation rates are closer to 1% per year. Partnerships with utilities, senior
governments and other agencies will be important to provide incentives that are sufficient to substantially increase the rate of retrofits occurring.
In addition to external funding, the District can also evaluate local funding opportunities such as building permit rebates, and implementing a broad green
development fee that gets re-distributed to these initiatives. As a first step, the District can reimburse the cost of a building energy audit and follow-up
coaching to support the selection of the most cost-effective upgrades.
Consider incorporating water-saving retrofits into the same program, supporting climate change adaptation for anticipated hotter, drier summers.

Actively connect community members with existing provincial, utility or other programs by raising awareness through marketing, social media, and
community events. Investigate the potential to provide “top-up” incentives for specific outcomes – for example, an incentive that facilitate a 100% shift away
from heating oil in the community.

Collaborate with the Capital Regional District, neighbouring municipalities, researchers and local industry to identify and support opportunities to generate, distribute and/or purchase renewable natural gas in the region. Potential sources could include anaerobic digestion of municipal and/or agricultural organic waste, and gasification of forestry by-products.

Explore the development of a low carbon district energy system for the Keating Industrial area.

Work with the Capital Regional District, residents and local businesses to achieve 100% organic waste diversion from residential and commercial sources. Consider opportunities to phase-out or ban single use items (e.g. straws and take-out containers).

Support regional efforts to maximize the capture of landfill gas from the Hartland landfill, and to pursue opportunities to transform the captured gas into an energy resource (for example, renewable natural gas).

Support regional efforts to maximize the capture of landfill gas from the Hartland landfill, and to pursue opportunities to transform the captured gas into an energy resource (for example, renewable natural gas).

Currently multiple private companies provide collection services in the community – resulting in multiple trucks covering the same route. Review
opportunities to consolidate services by area to reduce truck trips.

Since 2015, the District has been carbon neutral in its operations through the purchase of carbon offsets. Continue to support carbon reduction projects through the purchase of carbon offsets, with a focus on local or near-local projects where possible.

Beginning in 2018, transition the light-duty fleet to electric vehicles at time of renewal, or in advance of renewal where fuel and maintenance cost savings
support the investment. Identify suitable applications where the use of vehicles can be replaced with zero emission alternatives (e.g. electric bicycles).
In 2019, develop a strategy to convert heavier-duty fleet vehicles to lower emission vehicles best suited to meet the performance requirements. In the
near-term this is most likely a conversion to natural gas vehicles

Identify opportunities to support increased use of biofuels in the fleet (e.g. through use of higher blends of biodiesel such as B20, or the purchase of renewable natural gas in natural gas vehicles).

Identify opportunities to showcase various renewable energy projects that are visible to the community as a means to raise awareness, support local capacity building opportunities and encourage community members to uptake renewable energy. For example, installing a solar array on a municipal building demonstrates a visible commitment to renewable energy. Other examples include branding on fleet vehicles that are low or zero emission, or are powered with biofuels.

Ensure new facilities meet high standards of energy efficiency, demonstrating leadership in the community and supporting industry transition toward more efficient building practices. Where appropriate, integrate use of alternative energy technologies such as geo-exchange and solar technologies

Identify opportunities to protect and increase tree canopy and other natural assets that contribute to carbon sequestration, and consider carbon sequestration in all land acquisition and management activities.

To prepare ourselves for potential changes to our climate, we need to understand how sensitive our community systems (people, economy, food), infrastructure and natural assets are to the range of potential projected changes in our climate (from hotter, drier summers, to wetter winters, to more intense rainfall events, etc.) This risk and vulnerability assessment can build off the CRD climate projections work completed recently to help us identify how to prepare for the changes with minimal disruption and costs, while seeking to maximize the benefits.

Identify opportunities to build from emerging technical resources to support integration of climate considerations into planning and operations to address risks and vulnerabilities identified during the initial assessment. Examples may include partnerships with Engineers and Geoscientists of BC to apply new future ‘climate-proof’ IDF curves to infrastructure design standards, making improvements to hard infrastructure, informing development considerations for expanding flood plains and areas affected by sea level rise, promoting local food systems that increase resilience, and enhancing emergency response programs. Incorporate climate considerations into future updates of the Official Community Plan.

Collaborate with the Capital Regional District and neighbouring communities to incorporate climate-related communications, emergency preparedness and disaster planning, and promotion of local food systems into public outreach materials and activities.

Participate in regional efforts to identify the value of natural assets in climate change adaptation (e.g. reducing flood inundation, protecting shorelines from erosion, providing shade during extreme heat events) and incorporate findings into park and land management decisions.

Zero-Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning November 1, 2023

Residential – wood frame, 6 storeys or less (Group C): Energy Step 3 + Zero Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning July 1, 2024

Commercial – office, retail (Groups D or E, Part 3): Zero Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning November 01, 2024

Assembly or Care – restaurant, hospital (Groups A or B, Part 3): Built to BC Building Code

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee – This program allows homeowners in the District of Central Saanich to receive an interest-free loan to replace a fossil fuel heating system with an electric heat pump and then pay back the loan over 10 years on their property taxes. This property-assessed clean energy (PACE) program is a pilot for British Columbia and has attracted nearly 50 participants.

2018 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2019 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2023 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Winner – This nomination showcases the work undertaken by the City of Victoria, District of Saanich, District of Central Saanich, and Capital Regional District to engage with building professionals and develop the policy and bylaw amendments necessary to adopt the Zero Carbon Step Code (ZCSC) before it was even rolled out by the Government of BC. As a result, the municipalities will be the first in BC to have the ZCSC take effect, and the RD will be the first regional government to adopt the ZCSC. Their collaboration will also provide industry with predictability over the long term.

Council has taken the initiative to require EV charging with the following wording currently included in covenants as part of rezoning applications for residential infill development:

that the new dwellings will include a socket for electric vehicle charging that is constructed with a dedicated 240-Volt line, capable of 50 Amps, has a NEMA (6-50) socket, and located to serve a vehicle parking inside or outside of the garage;

For a table of required energized spaces based on land use, see: https://www.centralsaanich.ca/sites/default/files/2023-05/land_use_bylaw.pdf

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2017 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

As of August 19, 2020, all new residential developments require the installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations as outlined within Section 5 – Parking Requirements of the Zoning Bylaw.

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Zero Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning March 04, 2024

Multi-unit residential buildings 6 storeys or fewer: Zero-Carbon Zero (EL-4) beginning July 01, 2024

Multi-unit residential buildings 7 storeys or more and all other commercial buildings: Zero-Carbon Step Code Zero (EL-4) Beginning November 01, 2024

2021 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

2021 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

2021 CEA Climate and Energy Action Award Nominee

Large Residential Combustible and Encapsulated Mass Timber: Energy Step 3

Large Residential Non-combustible: Built to BC Building Code

Built to BC Building Code

For apartment, townhouse and street-oriented village home residential uses, a minimum of one parking space per dwelling unit shall be equipped
with an energized outlet for an EV capable of providing Level 2 charging or higher. Where the required number of parking spaces is less than the number of dwelling units, 100% of residential parking spaces shall be equipped with an energized outlet for an EV capable of providing Level 2 charging or higher. These requirements can be found in Section 714 of the Zoning Bylaw.

Develop and implement a new Climate Action Plan that incorporates emerging best practice approaches and innovative technology, and prioritizes actions to achieve the City’s community and corporate climate change targets

Annually track and report on current community and corporate GHG emissions and monitor anticipated future scenarios through the use of GHG inventory and modelling tools

Advocate to regional, provincial and federal levels of government to improve measures to reduce GHGs through actions such as research, incentive programs, expansion of transit service, progressive building codes and strengthened legislation

Develop strategic and collaborative education opportunities to encourage the community to take action to address climate change (e.g. reduce energy use, reduce solid waste, invest in renewable on-site energy, participation in CleanBC incentive programs, planting shade trees)

Continue to limit idling of City vehicles and develop new community anti-idling requirements and an associated outreach campaign

Foster community-driven climate action projects and initiatives that contribute to community GHG reduction (e.g. Spirit of Coquitlam Grant Program, tree planting programs, Bad Seed program)

Develop policies and champion pilot projects to encourage renewable energy in civic projects and technology applications (e.g. solar-thermal water heating for outdoor pools, pilot solar powered mobile device charging stations in parks and solar parking pay stations, geothermal opportunity in the development of the Poirier Precinct Master Plan, micro hydropower generators in the water distribution network)

Connect residents to renewable energy resources and opportunities for home applications

Implement, track and report on the actions in the City’s Climate Adaptation Strategic Plan

Support local food systems initiatives (e.g. participation on the Tri-Cities Food Council)

Implement the new Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan and advance mutually supportive actions in the Climate Adaptation Strategic Plan to increase community wildfire preparedness and address wildfire climate risk events

In partnership with the business community and business associations, provide support and recognition to local businesses who reduce their carbon footprint and green their operations

Continue to support and promote sustainable local tourism to Coquitlam residents and visitors

Support the local food economy by promoting local makers, bakers, and growers (e.g. farmers markets, food trucks

Collaborate with academic institutions to provide civic-focused learning opportunities to postsecondary students on topics that build job skills, develop local capacity to advance environmental sustainability and attract talent to the City and local businesses

Foster and support retention and expansion of local clean technology and innovation by leveraging technology partnerships to advance and solve sustainability challenges in our community and support a sustainable local economy (e.g. Project Greenlight)

Encourage staff to commute sustainably by developing new initiatives and incentives (e.g. consider transit pass subsidy, bike storage and annual bike tune-ups)

Motivate sustainable actions in staff through engagement campaigns and policies (e.g. update the City’s Workplace Sustainable Practices Policy and enhance the Carbon Cutters Program)

Encourage sustainable staff driving habits through an e-learning civic driver training program

Enhance and promote sustainable procurement guidelines

Develop and implement a corporate green fleet strategy

Research and evaluate low carbon or renewable fuel options for the City’s fleet (e.g. piloting biofuel, low emission diesel, hydrogen)

Complete an assessment of environmental technology opportunities (e.g. smart lighting controls, radar, smart sensors)

Identify opportunities to gradually implement sustainable and socially-responsible criteria for corporate investments

Develop a Carbon Offset Reserve Fund policy to guide decision-making in allocating funds to high value GHG emission reduction projects

Require transportation demand management measures in new developments, neighbourhood centres and the City Centre (e.g. car sharing, bike end-of-trip facilities, telecommuting, parking management)

Work with key partners to promote education and outreach initiatives that support active transportation (e.g. HUB, SD43 and TransLink)

Prepare planning and development strategies for transit supportive development (e.g. following best practices for transit-oriented development, corridor design to develop complete streets, density and diversity of housing to support frequent transit services

Develop and support programs and campaigns that create safe cycling opportunities for all ages and abilities (e.g. pilot a Learn2Ride program, update school travel plans, update cycling maps, Go-ByBike campaign)

Work with TransLink to prepare plans and strategies for transit service expansion (e.g. through Transport 2050)

Implement mobility hubs in Transit Oriented Development areas to increase transportation choice for residents

Develop policies, regulations and streetscape guidelines to manage curb space safely and efficiently, with an emphasis on encouraging walking, cycling, transit and shared mobility

Develop a comprehensive pedestrian, cycling and accessibility plan as a part of future updates to the Strategic Transportation Plan

Explore and implement solutions for first and last km transportation (e.g. e-bike share, short-term electric bike rentals

Develop an Electric Mobility Strategy to advance vehicle electrification and support greater e-mobility in the City (e.g. develop an electric vehicle charging strategy, identify barriers to community e-mobility, review City fleet inventory for opportunities to transition to electrification and explore business cases around e-mobility)

Promote and support incentives (e.g. preferential parking) for electric vehicle ownership and charging infrastructure and deliver enhanced outreach and education

Implement BC Energy Step Code requirements for new building permit applications in advance of provincial adoption schedule

Develop a tracking, monitoring and reporting system for BC Energy Step Code buildings

Promote new development to meet a recognized sustainable building standard (e.g. LEED, PassivHaus, National Green Building Standard)

Promote sustainable building incentives such as the CleanBC’s Better Homes and Better Buildings Programs and consider providing top-up incentives (e.g. heat pumps)

Pilot a program to increase industry and homeowner awareness and capacity for energy efficient upgrades and retrofits for existing buildings (identify grants and partnerships to support the program

Encourage developers to investigate a variety of approaches to reduce the energy demand and GHG emissions of their buildings and developments including district energy systems and low carbon systems

Support opportunities, partnerships and programs for deep energy retrofits of existing buildings (e.g. the Reframed initiative has selected a social housing building in Coquitlam for their retrofit program)

Continue to investigate opportunities to support encapsulated mass timber construction

Encourage and enable the adaptive reuse of the existing building stock where appropriate

Continue to upgrade, retrofit and apply cost-effective climate adaptive design to aging civic facilities and infrastructure

Develop sustainable design guidelines for new civic buildings and build new facilities to performance-based standards that minimize the need for large-scale retrofits within the lifespan of the building

Target sustainable design and operational elements that reduce corporate energy costs and GHG emissions with acceptable payback period or return on investment

Contemplate using the Northeast Community Centre project to pilot the development of a “sustainability plan”, including a cost benefit analysis, for Council consideration

Implement BC Energy Step Code requirements for new civic facilities

Provide end of trip cycling facilities as a part of all new civic facility developments (e.g. secure bike and gear storage, change rooms, showers, electric bike charging stations)

Complete an assessment of smart building technology opportunities for civic facilities (e.g. machine to machine communications and automation, artificial intelligence, expand use of smart sprinklers)

Apply a climate lens to strategic building asset planning informed by energy audits, building envelope evaluation, climate risk assessments and green infrastructure opportunities to support decision-making

Direct the majority of growth into Urban Centres and SkyTrain Station areas

Explore opportunities to integrate natural asset management and inventory programs including valuation of ecosystem services into the City’s conventional asset management program

Continue enforcement of environmental requirements for construction projects (e.g. erosion and sediment control, zoning requirements, Riparian Areas Protection Regulation and stormwater management)

Explore opportunities to expand Watercourse Protection Development Permit Area requirements citywide

Create tools, policy and processes that support best management practices for sustainable development (e.g. sustainable development checklist/scorecard, development permit guidelines update)

Implement a pop-up green street pilot program that reimagines and repurposes portions of road right of ways to create unique and vibrant pedestrian-oriented public open spaces

Identify and pursue opportunities to add and retain green infrastructure and features (e.g. street trees, bioswales, new parks, green walls, etc.) to neighbourhoods through neighbourhood plans, streetscape and design guidelines and other relevant plans or programs (e.g. Roadway and Streetscape Enhancement Program)

Explore ways to support the inclusion of small scale pocket habitat and recreational gardens in new developments

Ensure boulevard tree planting specifications for City and development projects are resilient in a changing climate (e.g. species selection, soil availability)

Expand current programs and develop new initiatives to educate residents and schools about waste generation, recycling, reusing and food waste (e.g. Metro Vancouver Love Food Hate Waste Campaign)

Assess service delivery options to increase diversion of recyclable and organic materials

Reduce improper sorting of residential waste through education and enforcement of the Solid Waste Management Bylaw

Identify and promote incentives to reduce waste (e.g. eliminate exchange fees for switching to a smaller garbage cart, promote the cost saving benefits associated with reducing waste and overall consumption)

Promote item sharing and swapping programs (e.g. tool libraries, sports equipment sharing in parks, library loan programs and Little Free Libraries, repair cafés)

Advocate for enhanced recycling options through the Province and EPR programs (e.g. textiles, electronics, large items including mattresses and furniture, Styrofoam, plastic bags, batteries from electric vehicles)

Assess opportunities to extend existing residential waste reduction programs to multi-family (e.g. large item pick-up program)

Explore partnerships to promote sustainable waste management with institutions such as School District 43

Evaluate, prepare, and prioritize guidelines for construction and demolition (deconstruction) materials to encourage the recycling and reuse of building materials where feasible (e.g. educational resources, recycling program, integrate with CleanBC Better Buildings programs)

Collaborate with local business associations and Metro Vancouver to promote waste reduction and recycling for businesses (e.g. Promoting Metro Vancouver’s food recovery network)

Look for education and programming opportunities to support the regional approach in addressing food waste

Continue to provide waste separation at civic facilities and promote recycling initiatives such as battery and office supplies recycling

Continue to require waste separation at large City events (>100 participants) and consider expanding these requirements to smaller events

Review and update the Parks Solid Waste Management Plan

Continue to advocate for the development of consistent single-use item strategies and regulations within the context of federal and provincial frameworks

Implement a single-use item bylaw that reflects the regional approach developed by Metro Vancouver

Promote reusable alternatives to single-use items to reduce consumption

Reduce illegal dumping and littering through education and bylaw enforcement programs

Pilot a Pop-up Junk Drop program to facilitate convenient disposal of items such as hazardous waste and large items

Continue to encourage item reuse through existing programs (e.g. Citywide Garage Sale and Give-away) and explore new programs (e.g. Repair Cafés)

Implement the Enhanced Water Conservation Strategy to further reduce water consumption

Continue enforcement of regional water use restrictions in collaboration with regional partners and advocate for further restrictions during peak usage

Update the Drinking Water Conservation Plan Bylaw to include the new regional restrictions (i.e. one day per week lawn watering)

Investigate the use of rainwater, groundwater and greywater re-use systems to reduce water demand (e.g. consider for larger multi-family and commercial developments

Expand the City’s water conservation education program to address topics such as efficient irrigation systems and drought tolerant landscaping

Provide incentives for water efficient appliances and tools (e.g. rebates in partnership with BC Hydro and piloting a new toilet rebate program)

Require the installation of water meter-ready connections for new single-family homes as a condition of new development approval, as well as for City construction projects and water service replacements

Implement a statistical metering program to inform a future decision on multi-family water meter setters and a future report on residential water metering implementation options

Analyze water meter data to identify high consumers and create targeted conservation education and support plans

Partner with Metro Vancouver to encourage businesses to reduce water use, adopt water efficient upgrades and detect leaks

Explore options for seasonal water rates to encourage less water use when supply is reduced

Undertake an audit of civic facilities to identify and prioritize water conservation opportunities and upgrades

Investigate opportunities to access groundwater for irrigation of City assets (e.g. Town Centre Park) and to provide additional emergency drinking water sources

Enhance the City’s leak detection and repair program

Coordinate with neighbouring municipalities to complete Integrated Watershed Management Plans for all major remaining urban watersheds (e.g. Stoney Creek)

Identify and pursue opportunities to daylight creeks in alignment with the City’s Integrated Watershed Management Plans

Monitor flow rates and water quality in watercourses and apply adaptive management where needed (as per the City’s Integrated Watershed Management Plans and Metro Vancouver’s Integrated Liquid Waste and Resource Management Plan)

Expand and apply the City’s Rainwater Management Guidelines to capital projects, where practical, and to new land development citywide except in areas with steep slopes susceptible to landslides

Update the Stormwater Management Policy and Design Manual with new rainwater Intensity-DurationFrequency curves to reflect the modelled future impacts of climate change

Enhance erosion and sediment control education and enforcement including development of new strategies for single family developments

Explore ways to increase onsite rain and storm water retention, such as through pervious area requirements, guidelines or incentives, with a focus on single family developments

Pursue targeted education and enforcement opportunities to reduce pollution in watercourses by analyzing and mapping the City’s spill response data

Create and expand education, outreach and volunteer opportunities related to residential stormwater management (e.g. Storm Drain Marking Program, AdoptA-Catch Basin Program and continue litter clean-ups

Enhance the inflow and infiltration abatement program (e.g. to reduce wet weather inflow and infiltration volumes and sanitary sewer overflows)

Review and improve sanitary sewer system capacity with consideration for population growth to prevent sanitary sewer overflows

Provide environmental education programs and volunteer engagement initiatives for all ages and abilities in collaboration with community and regional partners

Engage youth through youth-focused volunteer opportunities, school programs and outdoor experiences (e.g. trail building, park hosting and environmental leadership committees)

Recognize environmental champions through programs such as the Environmental Achievement Awards and Communities in Bloom

Support small scale pocket habitats and gardens (e.g. pollinator gardens) in neighbourhoods and commercial areas through educational resources and programs

Promote and support community-based science initiatives (e.g. City Nature Challenge, bioblitz, water quality monitoring, backyard bird counts, i-naturalist projects)

Continue to work with kʷikʷəƛ̓ əm First Nation, BC Hydro, Metro Vancouver, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and other partners through the kʷikʷəƛ̓ əm Salmon Restoration Program to restore sockeye salmon to the Coquitlam River Watershed

Develop a new citywide Invasive Species Management Plan and continue to remove invasive species through the Bad Seed Program

Decrease the use of pesticides citywide through enhanced educational programs and bylaw enforcement

Explore the designation and protection of wildlife corridors through the area and neighbourhood planning process where feasible and desirable

Collaboratively identify, protect, enhance and restore natural and urban elements of the regional green infrastructure network

Evaluate opportunities to reduce night-time light pollution to minimize impacts to wildlife

Identify opportunities to enhance the protection of nesting birds through existing City policies (e.g. City Watercourse Protection Development Permit requirements, subdivision Preliminary Layout Approval letters) that complement provincial and federal regulations

Continue to foster inter-governmental cooperation to collaboratively conserve species and ecosystems at risk, including participation on the provincially-led Species and Ecosystems at Risk Local Government Working Group and their related initiatives

Develop a citywide Urban Forest Management Plan that considers tree retention, stewardship, forest and ecosystem health, public safety and climate change impacts

Develop a citywide Urban Forest Management Plan that considers tree retention, stewardship, forest and ecosystem health, public safety and climate change impacts

Develop forest management plans for all key natural area parks

Develop forest management plans for all key natural area parks

Measure tree canopy cover percentages in developed neighbourhoods (Expand on the work completed by Metro Vancouver through the “Regional Tree Canopy Cover and Impervious Surfaces” analysis)

Identify and implement strategies to increase tree canopy cover at the neighbourhood level on private and public lands

Amend the Zoning Bylaw to extend Northeast Area tree replanting requirements citywide and re-evaluate requirements to ensure they are resilient to climate change

Increase tree planting initiatives on public lands and implement new tree planting programs on private lands (e.g. Adopt-ATree Program, incentives to plant large trees that sequester more carbon)

Prioritize planting of trees and vegetation that are resilient to climate change on public lands and support climate resilient tree planting on private lands through education and outreach

Identify opportunities to increase access and availability of quality greenspaces throughout the City (e.g. by acquiring parkland, planting street trees, creating “pocket parks”, encouraging backyard tree planting and engaging local residents in greening their neighbourhoods)

Enhance, maintain and increase parks, trails and walking/ cycling infrastructure in alignment with the City’s Master Trail Plan (e.g. sections providing linkages to larger trail systems or access from neighbourhoods to transportation hubs and commercial nodes are highest priority)

Implement the Coquitlam Parks Wayfinding Guidelines to improve connectivity of all neighbourhoods to the parks and trails system

Review the City’s urban wildlife education and enforcement programs and identify areas for enhancement and further collaboration with partners (e.g. Conservation Officer Service, neighbouring municipalities and citizen bear aware groups)

Provide education to prevent pest infestations and to encourage humane standards for treatment of pest issues that also eliminates the risk of secondary poisoning of wildlife