- By Bev Yaworski, Vancouver Environmental News Examiner
Twenty-eight speakers signed up to comment on Vancouver’s Greenest City 2020 Action Plan at a meeting of the Standing Committee on Planning and Environment, held on July 14th and chaired by Councillor Andrea Reimer at Vancouver City Hall.
Speakers were enthusiastic and supportive of the Vancouver plan - along with adding some of their own additional perspectives to the city’s vision for a greener more sustainable and environmentally-friendly city.
One of the most inspiring and eloquent speakers was John Robinson, Executive Director, UBC Sustainability Initiative (University of British Columbia). Mr. Robinson emphasized the hope that sustainability “can be moved to the core to shift sustainability from being a separate sector to one that transforms all sectors and becomes the norm. This also involves normalizing change.”
When questioned by Mayor Robertson about what other projects should be undertaken. Robinson offered a number of options including a comment that more needs to be done on a Transportation Plan because only about 60% of Vancouver’s sustainability plans are completed.
A public health nutritionist also commented on the importance of including a food policy in the Greenest City 2020 Action Plan. She highlighted 3 key international issues that are important food, fuel and finance.
The Standing Committee on Planning and Environment meeting also allowed for a meaningful back-and-forth question answer discussion between city councillors and speakers.
A Clean Water Residential Water Metering Policy was also to be discussed.
The agenda, the Greenest City 2020 Action Plan and video stream of the meeting can be accessed at: Vancouver city clerk’s online link.
