The City Council welcomed 46 community members to discuss how our community is addressing environmental sustainability and climate action. Feedback gathered during the meeting will help inform updates to the City’s Climate Action Framework later this year.

Key themes

• Community members value Vancouver’s natural beauty, strong sense of community, and the City’s commitment to growing in positive ways.
• Participants are concerned about how climate change will affect Vancouver’s natural environment and people’s daily lives. They are worried about changing policy at the federal level, but see the City’s Green Building Policy and Comprehensive Plan as “steps in the right direction.”
• Participants imagine a future where climate-friendly choices are affordable, convenient, and part of everyday life. By 2040, Vancouver will be greener, healthier, and easier to get around.
• Community members disagree about what the City should prioritize. Some said the City should focus first on actions that will have the greatest impact, such as transportation and land use. Others want to see equal support for focus areas identified in the current Climate Action Framework.

Learn more

• Read the full forum summary
• View the meeting handout
• Learn more about the Climate Action Framework update
• Sign up for climate action updates

Councilors welcomed 71 community members to City Hall to discuss how our community is building a Vancouver for All. Participants included community and neighborhood leaders, social service providers, and staff and students from the Foundation’s youth program.

Across seven tables, participants discussed what makes them feel connected to our community and barriers that might prevent some residents from benefiting from the opportunities our community offers. Community members also shared ways to improve belonging for all people who call Vancouver home. The City’s Engagement and Access Department will use feedback gathered during the meeting to inform program and planning next steps.

Key themes

• Participants identified community events, shared spaces and opportunities to volunteer as important sources of connection to the community. Community members noted the vital role that cultural celebrations and “third spaces” play in fostering a sense of shared identity.
• Community members identified a wide range of barriers that prevent some residents from accessing opportunities our community offers. These include age, income, disability status, health, language access and other systemic factors. Many participants shared personal stories of how these barriers affect them, their family and friends.
• To foster a greater sense of belonging, many participants discussed the need for inclusion and access. Participants would like to see efforts to expand economic opportunities, increase the number of community events and improve engagement across the city.

Learn more

• Read the full forum summary