Written by Katia Ramadori, Four Green Steps

Ever since the residents of Vancouver blocked the development of a major interstate back in the 60s, it has been a leader in the green movement. The city has the lowest per capita carbon footprint of any city in North America, according to the municipal stats. It also continually ranks as one of the most walk-able, bike-able and livable areas. This large bustling city is also the only city on this continent that met the Kyoto Protocol for climate emissions.

But Vancouver is not settling! In fact, they are pushing the envelope and taking a giant leap forward. In 2009, Mayor Gregor Robertson announced his goal to make the largest Canadian west coast city the greenest in the world.  Three years later and with the help of an expert panel and public support the city council has approved the 162 page Greenest City 2020 Action Plan.

This plan calls for separate bike lanes, efficient green retrofits, emissions reductions, more green spaces, a green economic development plan, and much more. The city also hopes that over 50% of people will take public transportation, bike or walk by 2020.

Vancouver also plans on being fossil fuel free by 2050, because as deputy mayor Andrea Reimer states, “…that’s ultimately where we need to go.” Reimer also states that the city does not support pipelines or tankers because there is no point in investing in 100-year infrastructure that will not be needed in 40 years. “Let’s build infrastructure that’s building towards that future we see,” said Reimer.

To learn more about the Greenest City 2020 Action Plan visit Vancouver.ca/GreenestCity/

Image courtesy of Creative Commons.

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