How can Vancouver adopt sustainable practices to balance urban development with the preservation of its natural ecosystems?

Sources of Emissions

Energy, transportation, agriculture

Impact of Emissions

Rising Temperatures and Extreme Weather Events

Canada is warming at twice the global average rate

Canada's most fatal climate-related event in BC (2021 heat dome)

Most costly weather event (2021 flooding)

the most destructive wildfire season on record (2023)

Long-term effects of CO₂

Temperatures stabilize ~100 years after emissions stop.

Solutions

Renewable energy adoption, carbon pricing, and nuclear energy

Circular Economy Policies

Reducing urban waste and regenerating resources

Fostering Youth Engagement

Encouraging youth participation in local climate action

Promoting Community-Centric Economies

Implementing localized circular economy practices

Reuse centers

Community composting

Green Infrastructure

Tree-lined streets

vertical forests

green roofs

Compact Cities

15-Minute Neighborhoods

Residents can access all essential services within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.

Transit-Oriented Development

Smart City Initiatives

Waste Management

Smart sensors for waste management and energy efficiency

Energy Efficiency

Smart streetlights

Smart Mobility Solutions

Apps providing updates on parking availability

Foundations of Sustainability

European Enlightenment's focus on resource conservation

Indigenous practices of living in harmony with nature

Modern Sustainability Principles

Three E's: Environment, Economics, and Equity

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Conflicts and Awareness

Growth-driven capitalism vs. sustainable living

consumption and resource extraction

cological balance and long-term well-being

Public education and values on sustainability

Habitat Loss

False Creek's habitat reduced to 26% of its original 355 hectares

Forest Reduction: Since 1859

Importance of Biodiversity

Ecosystem services: pollination, water filtration, climate regulation

Preservation Efforts

Urban greening and wildlife corridors

Vancouver's Ecological Network

Urbanization's Impact on Ecosystems

Over 90% of historical wetlands in the Lower Fraser area have been lost.

Challenges of Urbanization

Sprawl, car dependency, resource depletion

80% of residents in the Vancouver metropolitan area live in suburban neighborhoods

Cities consuming 75% of resources

Mitigation Strategies

Compact, walkable cities

Circular Economy Practices

Zero Waste 2040 plan