METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT CLIMATE ACTION COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING
Friday, June 19, 2020 Time 1:00 p.m. 28th Floor Boardroom, 4730 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia
A G E N D A1
1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.1 June 19, 2020 Regular Meeting Agenda That the Climate Action Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for June 19, 2020 as circulated.
2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 May 15, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes That the Climate Action Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held May 15, 2020 as circulated.
3. DELEGATIONS
4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS
5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF
5.1 Caring for the Air 2020 Report Designated Speakers: Amy Thai, Environmental Technician II Julie Saxton, Acting Division Manager, Bylaw and Regulation Development Parks and Environment Department That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report titled “Caring for the Air 2020 Report”, dated May 11, 2020.
5.2 Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region Designated Speakers: Shelina Sidi, Senior Project Engineer
1 Note: Recommendation is shown under each item, where applicable.
June 8, 2020
Climate Action Committee Climate Action Committee Regular Agenda June 19, 2020 Agenda Page 2 of 4 Derek Jennejohn, Lead Senior Engineer Parks and Environment Department That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region”.
5.3 2020 Declaration for Resilience in Canadian Cities Verbal Update Designated Speakers: James Stiver, Division Manager, Growth Management and Transportation Erin Rennie, Senior Planner Regional Planning and Housing Services Department
5.4 Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Waste Management Designated Speakers: Karen Storry, Senior Project Engineer, Solid Waste Services Department Lillian Zaremba, Program Manager Utility Residuals Management, Liquid Waste Services Department John Lindner, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment Department That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Waste Management”.
5.5 2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects Designated Speaker: Paul Kadota, Program Manager, Utility Research and Innovation, Policy Planning and Analysis, Liquid Waste Services Department That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated June 1, 2020, titled “2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects.”
5.6 Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report Designated Speaker: Laurie Bates-Frymel, Senior Planner Regional Planning and Housing Services Department That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated May 20, 2020, titled “Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report”.
5.7 Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris Designated Speaker: Laurie Bates-Frymel, Senior Planner Regional Planning and Housing Services Department That the MVRD Board:
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a) receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris”; and b) direct staff to forward the Best Management Practices to member jurisdictions for information.
5.8 Board Appointment of Enforcement Officer Designated Speaker: Kathy Preston, Program Manager, Enforcement and Regulation Parks and Environment Department That the MVRD Board: a) pursuant to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008 and the Environmental Management Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn as an officer; and b) pursuant to section 28 of the Offence Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn for the purpose of serving summons under section 28 of the Offence Act for alleged violations under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008.
5.9 Manager’s Report Designated Speaker: Roger Quan, Director, Air Quality and Climate Change Parks and Environment Department That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 20, 2020, titled “Manager’s Report”.
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
6.1 Final 2020 Declaration for Resilience in Canadian Cities
6.2 Correspondence related to the greenhouse gas intensity of buildings: a) Letter from Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to Sav Dhaliwal, Chair, Metro Vancouver Board, dated June 8, 2020 b) Letter from Sav Dhaliwal, Chair, Metro Vancouver Board to the Honourable Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, dated April 21, 2020
7. OTHER BUSINESS
8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS
9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING Note: The Committee must state by resolution the basis under section 90 of the Community Charter on which the meeting is being closed. If a member wishes to add an item, the basis must be included below.
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10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION That the Climate Action Committee adjourn/conclude its regular meeting of June 19, 2020.
Membership:
Carr, Adriane (C) - Vancouver Hocking, David - Bowen Island Patton, Allison - Surrey Dhaliwal, Sav (VC) - Burnaby Kruger, Dylan - Delta Steves, Harold - Richmond Arnason, Petrina - Langley Township McCutcheon, Jen - Electoral Area A van den Broek, Val - Langley City Baird, Ken - Tsawwassen First Nation McIlroy, Jessica - North Vancouver City Yousef, Ahmed - Maple Ridge Dupont, Laura - Port Coquitlam McLaughlin, Ron - Lions Bay
Climate Action Committee 2.1
METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT CLIMATE ACTION COMMITTEE
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) Climate Action Committee held at 1:01 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2020 in the 28th Floor Boardroom, 4730 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair, Councillor Adriane Carr, Vancouver Vice Chair, Councillor Sav Dhaliwal, Burnaby* Councillor Petrina Arnason, Langley Township* Chief Ken Baird, Tsawwassen* Councillor Laura Dupont, Port Coquitlam* (departed at 3:33 p.m.) Councillor David Hocking, Bowen Island Councillor Dylan Kruger, Delta* (departed at 3:50 p.m.) Director Jen McCutcheon, Electoral Area A* Councillor Jessica McIlroy, North Vancouver City* Mayor Ron McLaughlin, Lions Bay Councillor Allison Patton, Surrey* (arrived at 1:17 p.m.; departed at 3:37 p.m.) Councillor Harold Steves, Richmond* Mayor Val van den Broek, Langley City* Councillor Ahmed Yousef, Maple Ridge*
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Roger Quan, Director, Air Quality and Climate Change, Parks and Environment Jerry W. Dobrovolny, Chief Administrative Officer Genevieve Lanz, Legislative Services Coordinator, Board and Information Services
Members were provided with a video presentation on global climate change which is not retained with the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee agenda.
1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.1 May 15, 2020 Regular Meeting Agenda
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for May 15, 2020 as circulated. CARRIED
*denotes electronic meeting participation as authorized by Section 3.6.2 of the Procedure Bylaw
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Climate Action Committee 2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 March 13, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held March 13, 2020 as circulated. CARRIED
3. DELEGATIONS
3.1 Isaac Beevor and Katelyn Maki Isaac Beevor and Katelyn Maki spoke to members regarding yearly measuring and reporting of regional greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting alignment with the Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories, and asked members to support annual reporting instead of every five-years.
1:17 p.m. Councillor Patton arrived at the meeting.
Discussion ensued on Climate 2050 reporting, regional data collection, and spatial disaggregation of greenhouse gas emissions.
Members were informed that the delegation provided a revised summary which will be retained with the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee agenda.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee direct staff to report back with an assessment of implementing annual regional Greenhouse Gas measuring and reporting as part of Climate 2050 as requested by the delegation at the May 15, 2020 meeting of the Climate Action Committee. CARRIED
4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS
4.1 Brad Badelt, Assistant Director, Sustainability, City of Vancouver Brad Badelt, Assistant Director, Sustainability, City of Vancouver, spoke to members regarding the Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3) organization, The Atmospheric Fund financial support model, and establishing a regional LC3 host organization.
In response to questions, members were informed of the Request For Expression of Interest process, funding and endowment program, and next steps.
Presentation material titled “Metro Vancouver Regional LC3 Centre” is retained with the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee agenda.
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Climate Action Committee 5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF
5.1 Adapting Air Quality and Climate Change Engagement During COVID-19 Report dated April 30, 2020 from Laura Taylor, Public Engagement Coordinator, Parks and Environment and Lucy Duso, Policy Coordinator/Engagement Lead, External Relations, providing members with information on adapting engagement activities for priority air quality and climate change projects in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated April 30, 2020, titled “Adapting Air Quality and Climate Change Engagement During COVID-19”. CARRIED
5.2 Low Carbon Economic Stimulus Funding in Response to COVID-19 Report dated April 16, 2020 from Morgan Braglewicz, Policy Analyst, Parks and Environment, seeking MVRD Board direction to write letters to senior levels of government and other government agencies advocating for economic stimulus funding for low-carbon initiatives to align with Metro Vancouver’s climate action goals.
Members were provided with a presentation on senior levels of government funding packages and the potential for stimulus funding to support regional low- carbon initiatives, including building infrastructure and retrofits and renewable energy development.
Presentation material titled “Low Carbon Economic Stimulus Funding in Response to COVID-19” is retained with the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee agenda.
Main Motion It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board write letters to the provincial Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and other appropriate government agencies to call for economic stimulus funding to be directed to low carbon initiatives.
Members discussed encouraging member jurisdictions to write similar letters.
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Climate Action Committee Amendment to the Main Motion It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee amend the Main Motion, at the end of the motion, by adding the following phrase: “forward copies of each letter to member jurisdictions for information.” CARRIED
Question on the Main Motion as Amended Question was then called on the Main Motion as amended and it was CARRIED
Main Motion as amended reads as follows: That the MVRD Board: a) write letters to the provincial Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and other appropriate government agencies to call for economic stimulus funding to be directed to low carbon initiatives; and b) forward copies of each letter to member jurisdictions for information.
5.3 Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Project: Resiliency, Recovery and Restoration Peter Navratil, General Manager, Liquid Waste Services and Robyn Worcester, Natural Resource Management Specialist, Parks and Environment, provided members with a presentation on the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant project, highlighting wastewater treatment options, resource recovery opportunities, Iona Beach Regional Park ecosystem rehabilitation strategies, and project next steps.
Members discussed touring the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant project site.
Request of Staff Staff was requested to arrange a joint tour of the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant project site with the Liquid Waste Committee members.
Presentation material titled “Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant – Resiliency, Recovery and Restoration” is retained with the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee agenda.
5.4 Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050 Discussion Paper on Agriculture Report dated April 17, 2020 from Theresa Duynstee, Regional Planner, Regional Planning and Housing Services and John Lindner, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment, providing members with the Agriculture Discussion Paper to support the development of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps and Clean Air Plan.
3:33 p.m. Councillor Dupont departed the meeting.
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Climate Action Committee 3:37 p.m. Councillor Patton departed the meeting.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated April 17, 2020, titled “Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050 Discussion Paper on Agriculture”. CARRIED
3:50 p.m. Councillor Kruger departed the meeting.
5.5 Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Nature and Ecosystems Report dated April 17, 2020 from Josephine Clark, Senior Park Planner, Jason Emmert, Senior Planner, Parks and Environment and Edward Nichol, Senior Policy and Planning Analyst, Regional Planning and Housing Services providing members with the Nature and Ecosystems Discussion Paper to support the development of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps and Clean Air Plan.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated April 17, 2020, titled “Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Nature and Ecosystems”. CARRIED
5.6 Amendments to GVRD Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 Report dated April 14, 2020 from Julie Saxton, Acting Division Manager, Bylaw and Regulation Development, Parks and Environment, seeking MVRD Board consideration of Metro Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Amending Bylaw No. 1308, 2020.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board: a) give first, second and third reading to Metro Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Amending Bylaw No. 1308, 2020; and b) pass and finally adopt Metro Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Amending Bylaw No. 1308, 2020. CARRIED
5.7 Manager’s Report Report dated April 16, 2020 from Roger Quan, Director, Air Quality and Climate Change, Parks and Environment, providing members with an update on the 2020 Climate Action Committee Work Plan, Adaptation Canada 2020 conference, and Metro Vancouver’s participation in Environmental Assessment Reviews.
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Climate Action Committee It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated April 16, 2020, titled “Manager’s Report”. CARRIED
6. INFORMATION ITEMS No items presented.
7. OTHER BUSINESS No items presented.
8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS No items presented.
9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING No items presented.
10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Climate Action Committee conclude its regular meeting of May 15, 2020. CARRIED (Time: 4:19 p.m.)
______Genevieve Lanz, Adriane Carr, Chair Legislative Services Coordinator
39036375 FINAL
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Climate Action Committee 5.1
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Amy Thai, Environmental Technician II Julie Saxton, Acting Division Manager, Bylaw and Regulation Development Parks and Environment Department
Date: May 11, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Caring for the Air 2020 Report
RECOMMENDATION That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report titled “Caring for the Air 2020 Report”, dated May 11, 2020.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Caring for the Air is Metro Vancouver’s plain language report on regional projects that promote climate action and improve and protect air quality. Published annually, the 2020 edition describes how Metro Vancouver’s air quality has continued to improve over time, and focuses on Metro Vancouver’s climate leadership and implementation of Climate 2050. Caring for the Air describes projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the region adapt to climate change, and highlights measures Metro Vancouver is taking to reduce emissions from residential wood burning and other key air quality issues including traffic emissions.
The 2019 edition was promoted using traditional and social media, and at public facilities and community events. Recognizing the current situation with COVID-19, outreach for the 2020 edition will be adjusted, with an initial focus on Metro Vancouver’s social media channels.
PURPOSE To present the 2020 edition of the annual Caring for the Air report and provide information about outreach conducted for the 2019 edition of the report with the intention of raising awareness about climate change and air quality initiatives in the Lower Fraser Valley airshed.
BACKGROUND The Board Strategic Plan strongly emphasizes taking leadership on climate action through Climate 2050, and improving air quality by mitigating threats to public health and the environment. Caring for the Air is a plain language report that has been published annually since 2012, and has emerged as the key branding document that promotes awareness of climate action and air quality initiatives. It describes actions being taken by Metro Vancouver and partner agencies as well as activities that individuals can carry out to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect against the effects of climate change, and improve air quality. Each edition of Caring for the Air also summarizes the previous year’s air quality measurements and compares the data to applicable guidelines.
The Climate Action Committee 2020 Work Plan identifies the development of the ninth annual Caring for the Air report as a priority for the second quarter of the year.
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Climate Action Committee Caring for the Air 2020 Report Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 3
INSIDE CARING FOR THE AIR 2020 The 2020 edition of Caring for the Air is being distributed during the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this is acknowledged on the inside front cover of the report. While the region has seen measurable improvements in air quality during the period of strict physical distancing, the data that is presented in the 2020 report is for January to December of 2019. However, the 2020 Caring for the Air report states that an analysis of the impacts of COVID-19 on regional air quality will be included in the 2021 edition of the report.
The 2020 report describes the progress made by Metro Vancouver and partners on climate action and air quality initiatives. With the Board’s adoption of new climate targets as part of Climate 2050, declarations of climate emergency around the globe, and heightened public interest in climate action, it is essential to provide easy-to-understand, engaging, and accurate information on climate change and air quality. Key topics in Caring for the Air 2020 include: • Demonstrating Metro Vancouver’s climate leadership through projects such as enhancing electric vehicle charging infrastructure and adapting buildings to climate change; • Developing the Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050 roadmaps and involving the public in creating these plans; • Implementing a residential wood burning bylaw to improve air quality for residents; • Understanding emissions from traffic, including heavy duty trucks and ride-hailing; and • Promoting continuous improvement through the establishment of new air quality objectives and how they are used.
Maps summarize air quality data for 2019 and graphs illustrate trends in key air contaminant levels since 2008. This data shows that air quality in our region is good and steadily improving thanks to our actions to protect it. Other articles examine how emissions of volatile organic compounds are changing in our region, the way Metro Vancouver handles air quality complaints, and updates to Metro Vancouver’s air monitoring network. Caring for the Air 2020 also showcases work by other agencies and municipalities, such as Vancouver Coastal Health’s guidance on choosing a daycare to reduce exposure to air contaminants from traffic or wildfire smoke, and Surrey’s Biofuel Facility that transforms organic waste into renewable natural gas and compost.
Staff typically promote Caring for the Air through traditional media, social media, at relevant events and through other agencies and organizations. A report presented at the May 15, 2020 Climate Action Committee outlined how engagement will be modified while public health protection measures, such as physical distancing, remain in place due to the evolving COVID-19 situation. Until public facilities, such as libraries and municipal halls, reopen and community events resume, staff will promote Caring for the Air 2020 with an increased emphasis on Metro Vancouver’s social media channels.
DISTRIBUTION AND PROMOTION OF THE 2019 CARING FOR THE AIR REPORT For the previous year’s report (Caring for the Air 2019) social media promotion, including promoted posts via Metro Vancouver’s Facebook channel and organic posts via Twitter, was used to reach out to potential audiences between October and December, 2019. Posts highlighted the range of topics covered by articles in the report and provided links to the online version of Caring for the Air 2019.
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Analytics indicate that Caring for the Air social media posts reached over 40,000 people, resulting in over 800 engagements through likes, shares, and comments.
Copies of Caring for the Air 2019 were circulated to municipal offices and libraries in the region, and additional copies were provided on request. A rack card highlighted the purpose and content of Caring for the Air 2019. About 2,800 rack cards were distributed to community centres and hospitals in the region and, in cooperation with the BC Lung Association, more broadly to other individuals with an interest in health and air quality. Rack cards and copies of the report were also made available at events including Electrafest, regional Emotive events, Climate 2020 and Clean Air Plan workshops, community festivals, public meetings and open houses, as well as the Metro Vancouver Information Centre and library.
At the time of writing, there have been over 1,100 views of the electronic version of the Caring for the Air 2019 report, of which over 75% have been by one-time viewers. The vast majority of these views (85%) occurred from October to December of 2019, during the promotional period.
ALTERNATIVES This is an information report. No alternatives are presented.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The Caring for the Air 2020 report describes projects and programs that were undertaken within approved budgets and work plans or funded through the Regional District Sustainability Innovation Fund. The report also provides information about work relevant to Metro Vancouver’s air quality and climate action interests that were conducted by and entirely the responsibility of external organizations, supported by their own resources.
CONCLUSION Caring for the Air is a public-friendly report that makes information about Metro Vancouver’s climate change and air quality initiatives accessible to a wide range of readers. It helps to address directions and strategies in the Board Strategic Plan and Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan to increase public understanding of air quality and climate change issues and shares information to encourage public engagement and personal action. The ninth edition of the report highlights climate leadership at Metro Vancouver and encourages residents to participate in the development of the Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050.
Caring for the Air complements other outreach activities and publications, such as the State of the Air report produced by the BC Lung Association, which describes air quality programs throughout British Columbia, and Metro Vancouver’s annual technical air quality monitoring report, the Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality Monitoring Report.
Attachments 1. Caring for the Air 2020 report 2. Caring for the Air 2020 rack card
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Climate Action Committee ATTACHMENT 1
Caring for the Air 2020
In this issue
Climate leadership Be part of the Clean Air Plan What the new wood smoke bylaw could mean for you
Climate Action Committee Message from the Chair
Caring for the Air is Metro Challenging times bring out our resiliency, and this year’s Vancouver’s annual report on report was prepared in early 2020 during the COVID-19 air quality and climate action pandemic response. While there are indications of initiatives in our region. significant global changes in air quality levels and much It describes the good air quality discussion on the benefits of good air quality on public we enjoy in this region, the actions we have taken to health and resiliency, next year’s edition of Caring for improve air quality over time and how our programs the Air will examine in more detail how this response have evolved in response to new challenges, like climate affected air quality in Metro Vancouver. change and wildfires. Together we make our region strong. For the past twenty years, Metro Vancouver has been leading the fight against climate change.Climate 2050, Metro Vancouver’s climate change strategy for the region, is taking bold steps to accelerate actions to adapt to climate change and reduce GHG emissions with a Sav Dhaliwal commitment to be a carbon neutral region by 2050. Chair, Metro Vancouver Board
Contents
New Wood Smoke Bylaw Sparks Changes______1 Actions to Cut Short-lived Climate Forcers______11 Help Us Create a Clean Air and Air Quality Complaints in Numbers______12 Carbon Neutral Region ______2 How Does Metro Vancouver Assess Odours?____13 Healthy Air at Daycares______4 Improved Targets for Cleaner Air______14 The Trouble With Truck Traffic______5 Air Quality in 2019______15 The Promise and Peril of Ride-hailing in Metro Vancouver______6 Network News______18 Charging Up at Metro Vancouver’s Head Office___7 Understanding VOC______19 Climate Leadership at Metro Vancouver______8 How Are VOC Emissions Changing?______20 Adapting Our Buildings to a Future Climate_____10 Turning Food Waste into Fuel______21
The Lower Fraser Valley airshed Air pollutants can travel between Metro Vancouver and surrounding areas. Managing air quality successfully requires effective collaboration with our neighbours and other levels of government, and participation from businesses, public institutions, non-government organizations and residents. Articles in this publication reflect this cooperation.
Climate Action Committee New Wood Smoke Bylaw Sparks Changes
This spring, Metro Vancouver took another step to improve our air quality by adopting a bylaw to reduce emissions from residential wood burning. But what does this mean if you use a wood burning appliance to heat your home?
Why focus on wood smoke? What should I do with my wood burning stove Residential indoor wood burning is responsible for or fireplace? more than a quarter of our region’s fine particle Metro Vancouver runs an exchange program which emissions. Fine particles in wood smoke can have allows residents to apply for a rebate when they negative impacts on our health, particularly for replace their uncertified wood burning stove or infants, the elderly and people with existing lung and fireplace with a new, lower emission unit. heart conditions. In addition, as part of the COVID-19 response, public health authorities recommended Metro Vancouver hosts wood heat workshops which reducing air pollution, such as excess wood smoke, provide residents with tips to maximize the efficiency in populated areas because of strong evidence that of wood burning appliances and minimize emissions. exposure to air pollution increases susceptibility to These free workshops also provide information on respiratory viral infections. This underscores how this wood heating system maintenance and firewood bylaw can help protect the health of the population. preparation. Wood smoke is also a source of black carbon, which To learn more about the bylaw and the wood stove is associated with climate change, and can contain exchange program, visit metrovancouver.org and toxic air pollutants. search for ‘residential wood burning’.
New bylaw PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3 The new bylaw aims to May 2021 September 2022 Sept. 2025* reduce the health and Restrictions on indoor wood Declaration of use of best Restrictions on use of environmental impacts of burning during the warm burning practices in all non-registered devices emissions from residential season, unless it is the sole areas, registration of clean within Urban Containment indoor wood burning source of heat wood burning appliances Boundary (except for low using a phased approach. within Urban Containment income households) Boundary
*2032 in Lions Bay
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Climate Action Committee Help Us Create a Clean Air and Carbon Neutral Region
Metro Vancouver residents and businesses are The Clean Air Plan will be Metro Vancouver’s next air worried about the impacts of climate change and quality and greenhouse gas management plan, and will poor air quality in our region and around the world. support this acceleration. The plan will include goals, Fortunately, solutions and progress are possible, by targets and actions to help achieve regional ambient improving technologies and changing how we live, air quality objectives (see page 14) and reduce regional work, study and play. Change can be challenging, yet greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2010 levels by we must accelerate our actions in the region to avoid 2030. Actions could include incentives, educational dangerous levels of climate change and to protect outreach campaigns and regulations. public health. Actions must be grounded in scientific evidence and recognize a public desire to see a The plan will also support Climate 2050 bolder vision and faster timelines. (see www.metrovancouver.org/climate2050), Metro Vancouver’s overarching 30-year strategy for becoming a carbon neutral and climate resilient region.
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Climate Action Committee The Clean Air Plan will build on existing Metro Vancouver air quality and greenhouse gas programs How can I participate? and policies. It will also be shaped by similar initiatives Engagement approaches will focus on online by others, such as the provincial CleanBC plan and and digital tools, including webinars and online local municipalities’ sustainability, environment, feedback. climate and energy plans. Governments, residents and businesses will need to work and plan collaboratively For more information and to join our to ensure we achieve our goals. mailing list, visit www.metrovancouver.org and search for ‘Clean Air Plan’, email Metro Vancouver has engaged the public, [email protected], stakeholders and other governments over the past six or call 604-432-6200. months on the goals, targets, strategies and actions to include in the Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050. Why tackle air quality and climate A draft Clean Air Plan should be available for change together? comment and feedback later in 2020, with adoption of the finalClean Air Plan in early 2021. Climate change and air quality are strongly linked, since many major sources of greenhouse gases While the challenges are large, solutions are possible, in the region are also major sources of health- so we can make our region more livable than ever. harming air contaminants. The Clean Air Plan will aim to maximize co-benefits by targeting emission sources that emit both types of air contaminants.
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Climate Action Committee Healthy Air at Daycares
Healthy air and outdoor physical activity at daycares promote healthy child development. Children breathe faster than adults so are more sensitive to poor air quality. Air pollution, such as from traffic and wildfire smoke, can damage health and development, especially in children with chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma.
Features that can reduce children’s exposure to air pollutants include:
• Daycares and outdoor play areas located far away from traffic – especially heavy duty truck routes, major intersections and uphill acceleration zones.
• Ventilation system air intakes and windows that open for air flow located away from roads and other air pollution sources. during wildfire smoke or air quality health alerts. Walking or biking to daycare offers benefits while • Well-sealed buildings and windows to prevent outside air pollution from getting into the building. also reducing vehicle emissions near drop off and pick up zones. • Well-maintained indoor climate control and air quality management systems that can clean and To learn more about choosing the right daycare, cool or heat the space without opening windows on visit the Vancouver Coastal Health website. The BC bad-air days. Centre for Disease Control has excellent resources on portable air filters for wildfires and information • Keep indoor air as clean as possible, such as with a about the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Air well-functioning building air management system quality information for Metro Vancouver communities that cleans and cools the space without opening is available 24/7 on AirMap.ca. You can also stay the windows on bad-air days, or use correctly-sized informed by signing up for air quality alerts in Metro portable air cleaners with HEPA air filters. Vancouver and the Lower Fraser Valley or elsewhere in BC for periods of heightened wildfire smoke risk, or Despite urban air quality concerns, there are well- download the BC Wildfire Service app. known health benefits to children being outside and active as much as possible during the day, except Courtesy of Vancouver Coastal Health
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Climate Action Committee The Trouble With Truck Traffic
Exposure to traffic-related air pollution is a significant public health issue in Canada. Despite improvements in vehicle emissions, Canada’s urban areas, population and vehicle use continue to grow. In Metro Vancouver, over one million people – nearly half the population – live within 250 metres of a major road. Living or spending time near a major roadway poses health risks, including breathing and heart problems.
The Metro Vancouver Near-Road Air Quality Monitoring Study was carried out as part of a national study with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and the University of Toronto. Air quality was measured over two years near Clark Drive, a busy car and truck route in Vancouver.
Vehicles emit air pollutants from the combustion of fuel, as well as brake and tire wear. Results showed that air quality tends to be poorer near major roadways than in locations away from traffic. On occasion, pollutant levels measured at the near- road site were worse than Metro Vancouver’s annual air quality objectives for nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. Other pollutants associated with traffic, including black carbon and ultrafine particles, were also elevated. The study showed that vehicle type, particularly large diesel-fueled trucks, rather than traffic volume, is a major contributor to the amount Metro Vancouver will continue to monitor air quality and type of pollution associated with busy roadways. at Clark Drive to further understand the impacts of traffic-related air pollutants and track changes. Current A program to reduce emissions and exposure to measurements are available on Airmap.ca. traffic-related air pollutants will be an action of the new Clean Air Plan. This will require land use policy, For more information on nitrogen dioxide, visit infrastructure design and transportation management metrovancouver.org and search for ‘NOxFactsheet.’ strategies as well as support from other governments, For information on fine particulate matter, visit from individual municipalities to the federal level. metrovancouver.org and search for ‘PMFactsheet.’
Caring for the Air 2020 5
Climate Action Committee The Promise and Peril of Ride-hailing in Metro Vancouver
In January 2020, after years of deliberation, ride- Reducing greenhouse gases from cars and trucks hailing companies were given the green light to is a high priority for local, regional and provincial operate in Metro Vancouver. New provincial legislation governments. Without clear reduction targets, allows companies such as Uber, Lyft and TappCar to ride-hailing may work against our climate targets. operate passenger cars on roads that had previously The good news is that a transition to low carbon been dominated by taxis. The service is convenient, ride-hailing is possible. Over the next three years relatively affordable and can reach areas less served in California, ride-hailing companies will be required by public transit, but recent studies in the United to track, report and manage their greenhouse gas States point to an increase in kilometres travelled in emissions. Electric vehicle pilot projects in Austin, vehicles because of ride-hailing. Seattle and Atlanta have met service needs while providing a better financial return. Investments in To compete with the convenience of taxis, ride-hailing charging infrastructure and access to electric vehicles vehicles will pick up on request. This means that unlike would be needed to scale up these projects. carpools or ride-shares, they drop off a customer and then drive to the next pickup location empty, creating In BC, while local governments are exploring tools to congestion and emissions. This “deadheading” lower greenhouse gases from ride-hailing, the province can account for 20% to 50% of the vehicle’s travel, is best-positioned to ensure ride-hailing companies according to studies in New York and San Francisco. actively take steps to address their emissions.
56,000 tonnes Ride-hailing results in Seattle of greenhouse 2018 gases emitted
260 million kilometres travelled 23.4 million litres of gasoline used
THESE NUMBERS DO NOT INCLUDE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS NOT CARRYING A PAYING CUSTOMER, WHICH CAN ACCOUNT FOR 20-50% OF THE VEHICLE'S TRAVEL.
Courtesy of TransLink 6 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee Charging Up at Metro Vancouver’s Head Office
Electric vehicle (EV) charging takes many Like many local employers, Metro Vancouver has also forms. People can charge at home, at work, or installed a cluster of pay-per-use level 2 charging stations for staff and head office tenants. These on the go, using a variety of charging station stations offer a reliable option for a top-up charge or options. Two different types of EV charging for people whose home charging options are limited. stations were installed at Metro Vancouver’s head office in 2019: direct current fast The most common practice in BC has been to provide charging and level 2 charging. charging for free; however, charging station hosts are increasingly looking to set fees for charging to recover costs and encourage turnover at chargers. At Metro Direct current fast charging stations, known as DCFCs Vancouver’s head office, while level 2 station users pay or level 3 stations, are the equivalent of gas stations by the hour, the DCFC station employs a distinctive for EVs. They offer users the convenience of charging two-tiered pricing system. Users are charged by the up for long distances in a relatively short time. The minute, and after the first 30 minutes of charging, a new publicly accessible DCFC station, located in the higher tier price is initiated to encourage turnover and underground parkade at Metropolis at Metrotown, make the station available to more users. is open 24/7, on a first-come, first-served basis. The station is multi-standard, enabling it to charge the The recent installation of EV charging stations at majority of EV models currently available. It can Metro Vancouver’s Head Office makes it easier than provide enough charge in 30 minutes for an EV to ever to charge an EV. Metro Vancouver’s DCFC and travel over 100 km. level 2 charging offer options to encourage EV use and reduce transportation emissions.
Caring for the Air 2020 7
Climate Action Committee Climate Leadership at Metro Vancouver
Responding to the impacts of climate change is a big challenge. This challenge requires urgent action, but with climate science The Intergovernmental Panel on constantly evolving, our approach needs to be adaptive. Until Climate Change (IPCC) is the United recently, Metro Vancouver was targeting an 80% reduction in Nations body that provides regular greenhouse gases (GHG) by the year 2050. Based on the most up assessments of the scientific basis to date science from the IPCC, we are now going further, targeting of climate change, its impacts and a carbon neutral region by 2050, with a shorter-term target of future risks, as well as options for reducing GHG emissions by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030. adaptation and mitigation. By setting ourselves on this path towards carbon neutrality, Metro A carbon neutral region is a region Vancouver is poised to help limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C that has achieved the deepest above pre-industrial levels and to avoid more severe climate impacts. greenhouse gas emissions reductions As we strive to be a leader in reducing GHG emissions, we know possible across all economic sectors, that we will not be able to do it alone. No single organization can and removes or captures sufficient achieve the necessary reductions without significant cooperation, carbon dioxide to balance any collaboration and commitment from other governments, partner remaining regional greenhouse organizations, stakeholders and the public. gas emissions.
Fortunately, the B.C. government’s Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP) is one of several programs that supports our efforts. CARIP provides a carbon tax refund to local governments, such as Metro Vancouver, that have signed the B.C. Climate Action Charter, in return for committing to reducing and reporting their GHG emissions.
8 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Rendering
Projects that reduce emissions from Metro Metro Vancouver’s CARIP refund is re-invested in Vancouver’s operations: local climate action. It supports corporate climate
• Electric vehicle charging stations are available at our projects, but it also funds projects that help head office, seepage 7 for more information communities reduce their carbon footprint:
• The Emotive campaign raises awareness of electric • A demonstration project has been initiated on vehicles, which can significantly reduce greenhouse hydrothermal processing, to convert a waste gas emissions by taking advantage of BC’s clean, product (wastewater treatment plant residuals) to a renewable electricity. The campaign has introduced biocrude oil that will displace fossil fuel use thousands of people to electric vehicles, helping
• A Sustainable Infrastructure and Buildings Design the region and BC lead the way in the transition to Guide is being developed to help infrastructure and clean transportation. Check out www.emotivebc.ca building projects meet the highest sustainability to learn more. standards • RateOurHome.ca creates awareness of home energy labels, like the EnerGuide Rating System, to Projects that promote complete, compact and make carbon emissions and energy use in homes energy efficient communities: more visible and help in decision making when • The Strata Energy Advisor Pilot Program purchasing a home. Home energy labels show provided professional energy advisor services to how energy efficient a home currently is and how stratas undertaking major building renewal and it compares to other similar homes. To learn more maintenance projects about adapting buildings to climate change, see page 10. • Effluent heat recovery at the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant will provide unused To see Metro Vancouver’s latest CARIP report heat to Lonsdale Energy Corporation’s district and learn about other projects that reduce our energy system, displacing natural gas use GHG emissions, visit metrovancouver.org and search for ‘CARIP report’.
Caring for the Air 2020 9
Climate Action Committee Adapting Our Buildings to a Future Climate
Buildings give us shelter, comfort and a place to work and play. They are where we spend most of our lives. In a changing climate, the design and location of buildings will influence our exposure to climate-related hazards. In 2050, zero carbon and resilient buildings will be standard practice, but today, many of our buildings will require significant changes to become resilient to a changing climate.
Hazard: severe wildfire impacts, causing degraded air quality that contributes to negative health effects.
This means: People will need to spend more time inside to find clean air.
What we can do about it: Retrofitting some public buildings will provide clean air refuges. These offer healthier places to go when outdoor air quality is degraded and are important for residents who currently cannot retrofit their own homes. Eventually, most buildings will need to have effective indoor air filtration.
Hazard: heat waves are expected to increase in frequency, duration and intensity, impacting the region’s most vulnerable residents more than others.
This means: Demand for cooling will increase on extremely hot days. Many residents will seek refuge in cooler buildings.
What we can do about it: As temperatures rise, we need to adopt passive design standards that help to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Air source heat pumps and shading from trees are affordable low-carbon cooling retrofits for many buildings.
Hazard: seasonal water shortages are expected to increase in frequency due to rising temperatures and changes in rain and snowfall.
This means: Residents will face more frequent and stringent water restrictions.
What we can do about it: Properties need to be designed to capture and use water efficiently. Ultra-efficient appliances, rainwater harvesting, and using drought-tolerant, non-invasive plants and trees will reduce our water consumption.
By proactively adapting our buildings to climate change and incorporating climate risk into land use planning, we can significantly reduce health and safety risks, and severe financial losses.
10 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee Actions to Cut Short-lived Climate Forcers
Although carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary cause of climate change, it isn’t the only substance that can influence our climate. Some air pollutants such as methane, black carbon (soot) and ground-level ozone (smog) are ‘short-lived climate forcers’. They remain in the atmosphere for a relatively short amount of time – from a few days to a few years – but have a higher ‘global warming potential’, or ability to warm the atmosphere, than CO2. Local government action on short-lived climate forcers
Surrey Biofuel Facility: Vancouver Landfill Gas Biofilter/Biocover This facility helps divert organic Optimization Project: Opportunities: waste from landfills, reducing Improving gas capture Adding biosolids from methane emissions. It generates at landfills helps reduce wastewater treatment plants to renewable natural gas that methane emissions. This project landfill covers could provide an displaces fossil fuel use in significantly reduced methane economical and effective way municipal vehicles. See page 21 release to the atmosphere to decrease methane emissions for more information. by about 431,000 tonnes from landfills via chemical CO2-equivalent greenhouse reactions between the biosolids gas emissions between 2012 and methane. Metro Vancouver and 2015. is currently testing the use of biosolids as a biocover/biofilter at several landfills.
Non-Road Diesel Wood Stove Exchange Program: Regional Ground-Level Engine Emissions: Residential wood burning is Ozone Strategy: Metro Vancouver’s non-road another significant source of This strategy builds on diesel engine regulation helps black carbon emissions in Metro previous work to address peak reduce harmful emissions of Vancouver. The Wood Stove summertime concentrations diesel soot from construction Exchange program helps residents and also guides policies to equipment. replace older wood burning reduce ozone concentrations appliances with cleaner, low throughout the year. emissions choices. See page 1 to learn more.
If we act now to reduce methane, soot and ground-level ozone levels, the impacts on our climate, crops, water, health and ecosystems will be less severe while we work to reduce longer-lived CO2 emissions.
Caring for the Air 2020 11
Climate Action Committee Air Quality Complaints in Numbers
Metro Vancouver uses air quality complaints complainant area if: submitted by the public to identify new issues. • We receive complaints when the issue is occurring; The number of air quality complaints has more than • We see a trend from an area (such as an increase doubled since 2015, and staff now handle close to in the frequency of complaints, or many people 4000 complaints each year (see chart below). More making similar complaints, over time); or than 95% of these complaints are about odour.
• We receive multiple similar complaints about a one- When filing odour complaints, we ask complainants to time event. describe the odour as best they can and, if they can, name a suspected source. This information gives us a Because of the large number of complaints, we do starting point for follow-up, but we will only designate not call complainants back unless we need more a source as the probable source if our own assessment information. Our limited staff resources are focused supports that conclusion. on identifying sources and promoting compliance with While we can look at location, wind data, odour Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Management Bylaw. description and previously identified sources to For more information on how to provide us with the determine if a suspect is a probable source, the best information possible, visit metrovancouver.org best way to verify a source is to visit the complainant and search for ‘complaint tips’. area. We are more likely to gather information at a
Complaints to Metro Vancouver by suspect
4500
4000 All other suspects Owner/Occupant 3500 Cannabis 3000 Organics Processing
2500 Unknown
2000
1500
1000
500
0 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
12 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee How Does Metro Vancouver Assess Odours?
Metro Vancouver receives more complaints Officers do odour surveys using the currently best about odour than anything else. Not every available instrument for detecting and identifying odour: the human nose. Officers become familiar with complaint can be verified, especially if many different odours over the course of their field received after the fact, but when an issue is work, and most can easily tell the difference between ongoing, officers may visit the complainant manure, cannabis, composting, garbage, sewage, area (see page 12). While visible emissions low tide and many of the other odours present in our such as smoke or dust are easy to observe and environment. even photograph, identifying an odour source Officers may occasionally breathe through a carbon requires additional steps like checking upwind filter to refresh their sense of smell to avoid “odour and downwind of several possible suspects. fatigue”, which happens because our noses tend to desensitize to odours over time – think of the aroma of home that welcomes you as you walk in the door Odour survey steps but never notice when you are home all day. 1 Start at complainant location or if winds have shifted, find a location downwind of a potential source where To account for shifting winds, which can make the odour is recognizable. Note whether the odour pinpointing a source more difficult, officers track wind becomes stronger (easier to smell) or weaker (harder direction and make adjustments as they do their surveys. to smell) as you move closer to the potential source. Officers will forward complaints to suspected sources, 2 Repeat with locations downwind to rule out or but generally will not contact the complainants. confirm other sources.
3 Go upwind of the most likely suspect to rule out or confirm other sources.
Caring for the Air 2020 13
Climate Action Committee Improved Targets for Cleaner Air
Metro Vancouver uses a variety of tools to manage air quality in the region, including ambient air quality objectives. Objectives are targets that define the outdoor concentrations of key air contaminants that are generally considered acceptable, based on human health and environmental impacts. Metro Vancouver uses ambient air quality objectives to:
• Assess regional and local air quality;
• Support the development of air quality management plans, such as the Clean Air Plan, and emission regulations; and WHY ARE OBJECTIVES IMPORTANT?
• Guide air management decisions, such as issuing Fuel combustion produces nitrogen dioxide permits and air quality advisories. emissions. On hot and sunny days, nitrogen dioxide reacts with volatile organic compounds to form Metro Vancouver’s objectives have historically been ground-level ozone. There is strong evidence that amongst the most stringent objectives in Canada. nitrogen dioxide and ground-level ozone have We follow a principle of continuous improvement, negative heart and lung impacts and can shorten and regularly review our air quality objectives to life expectancy. ensure they are in line with the latest science.
Changes on the horizon What do the changes mean for you? In 2020, new federal objectives, known as Improved air quality objectives help to reduce Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards, came negative impacts on your health and the environment into effect for nitrogen dioxide and ground-level by guiding policies and programs to reduce emissions. ozone. In addition, the provincial government now Federal objectives will become even more stringent in has a more stringent objective for carbon monoxide. 2025. The development of actions in the Clean Air Plan Metro Vancouver has updated regional objectives to (see pages 2 and 3) will help ensure our region’s air better align with these standards. quality meets or is better than our objectives.
Air Contaminant Averaging Time Previous Objective (ppb) Updated Objective (ppb) Nitrogen Dioxide Annual 21 17 1-hour 106 60 Ozone 8-hour 65 62 Carbon Monoxide 8-hour 8,700 5,000 1-hour 26,200 13,000
For more information, visit metrovancouver.org and search for ‘ambient air quality objectives’.
14 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee Air Quality in 2019
Metro Vancouver did not issue any air quality Most gas phase air pollutants generally continued to advisories during the summer of 2019. This contrasts decrease. Sulphur dioxide levels continued to improve, with the unprecedented number of days under an air mainly due to strict lower sulphur requirements for quality advisory in the summers of 2017 and 2018. In marine fuels. Average levels of ground-level ozone have May 2019, smoke in the upper atmosphere from large increased slightly despite reductions in the pollutants wildfires in northern Alberta produced visual impacts that create it. This is partly due to an increase in ozone in our region, including orange sunsets, but did formed outside Canada coming into our region. Peak not affect air quality near the ground. Although the ground-level ozone levels (not shown), which occur summer started warm and dry, rain in July and August during hot and sunny summer afternoons, are better helped suppress wildfire activity in British Columbia. now than in the 1980s and early 1990s. A small wildfire near Lions Bay caused localized impacts in the northern and western parts of the TREND IN FINE PARTICULATE MATTER 7 region briefly in June. Wildfires further afield did not significantly impact air quality in the Lower Mainland. Same air, same air quality, just new measurements Furthermore, summer weather conditions did not lead 6 to elevated ground-level ozone concentrations. NEW
An air quality bulletin, which informs residents about 5 air quality issues that are not widespread enough to OLD trigger an advisory, was issued in early November. 4 Stagnant weather conditions caused intermittent high concentrations of fine particulate matter from local sources. See page 1 to find out how Metro Vancouver 3 is trying to reduce local sources. 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Air Quality Trends Trends charts (right) illustrate the change in average air quality across the region over time. Measurements TO 2008 LEVEL COMPARED AVERAGE TRENDS IN GAS PHASE AIR POLLUTANTS 1.4
from monitoring stations located from Horseshoe Bay (μg/m3) PM2.5 CONCENTRATION GROUND LEVEL OZONE to Hope are averaged to represent the outdoor air 1.2 quality typically experienced in the region. 1.0 NITROGEN DIOXIDE 0.8 Trends show that most air contaminant levels have been improving over the last decade, even while the region’s 0.6 CARBON MONOXIDE population has grown. Lower concentrations of fine 0.4 SULPHUR DIOXIDE particulate matter in 2019 reflect the lack of significant 0.2 wildfire smoke impacts in the region during the summer. 0
Caring for the Air 2020 15
Climate Action Committee Air Quality in 2019 - Data Summary
FINE PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5) IN 2019
45
32 Fraser Valley 39 Regional District
34 27 26
27 28 20 29 Whatcom County 27
30 23 24 Metro Vancouver 32 32
31
22 21 30 19
>28 µg/m3 24-Hour Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standard CANADA USA
In 2019, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels throughout the region were worse than the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standard at nearly half of the monitoring stations (see map above), which was a result of high concentrations measured in the previous two active wildfire years. Measurements averaged over 2019 were within Metro Vancouver’s annual objective. Peak levels, based on the highest 24-hour average, were worse than the short-term 24-hour objective (25 μg/m3) on the evening of October 31 at Richmond-South, Langley, Richmond-Airport, Abbotsford-Mill Lake, Mission and Vancouver- Clark Drive likely due to Halloween firework emissions. The short-term objective was also exceeded on three other days in November at Richmond-South, Mission and Vancouver-Clark Drive, caused by emissions from local sources, such as fireworks, residential wood burning, open burning and transportation, along with stagnant weather conditions.
GROUND-LEVEL OZONE IN 2019
65
61 61 Fraser Valley Regional District 66 60 59 63 59 54 53 54 49 Whatcom County 48 57 45 Metro Vancouver 41 49 45
48 36 43 48 44 49 >62 ppb Metro Vancouver 8-Hour Objective
CANADA USA
Ground-level ozone forms when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in the air in the presence of sunlight. Ground-level ozone concentrations were better than Metro Vancouver’s short-term 1-hour air quality objective (82 ppb) at all monitoring stations in 2019. Metro Vancouver’s 8-hour objective (62 ppb) was achieved at all stations except Maple Ridge, Mission and Hope in 2019. The map above shows how 2019 measurements compared to Metro Vancouver’s 8-hour objective. In 2019, Metro Vancouver aligned its 8-hour ozone objective with the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone (see page 14).
16 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee Air Quality in 2019 - Data Summary
SULPHUR DIOXIDE IN 2019
Fraser Valley 0.1 Regional District 0.1 0.2
0.2 0.4
0.3 Whatcom County 0.5 0.4 Metro Vancouver 0.3 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.6 0.3 0.4
0.4 0.3 0.2
>5 ppb Metro Vancouver Annual Objective CANADA USA
Average concentrations of sulphur dioxide for 2019 are shown above with all stations below Metro Vancouver’s annual objective of 5 ppb. Peak levels were better than Metro Vancouver’s 1-hour objective of 70 ppb at all stations in 2019.
NITROGEN DIOXIDE IN 2019
5 7 Fraser Valley 7 Regional District 9 7 7
8 6 8 10 9 11 Whatcom County 16 7 12 Metro Vancouver 14 10 13 12 16 18
12 14 7
>17 ppb Metro Vancouver Annual Objective CANADA USA
Nitrogen dioxide concentrations were better than Metro Vancouver’s long-term annual objective (17 ppb) at all monitoring stations except Metro Vancouver’s near-road monitoring station, Vancouver-Clark Drive, as shown on the map above. The highest average nitrogen dioxide concentrations were measured in highly urbanized areas near busy roads. More than half of the regional emissions of nitrogen oxides (which includes nitrogen dioxide) come from transportation sources. In 2019, nitrogen dioxide concentrations were better than Metro Vancouver’s short-term objective (60 ppb) at all monitoring stations with the exception of North Vancouver-Second Narrows. Short-term measurements of nitrogen dioxide at this station were influenced by local construction activity in 2019.
In 2019, Metro Vancouver aligned regional nitrogen dioxide objectives with Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (see page 14).
Caring for the Air 2020 17
Climate Action Committee Network News
Taking our network to the next level Metro Vancouver is reviewing the Lower Fraser Valley Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network to ensure BIG POTENTIAL IN SMALL SENSORS the network continues to fulfill the needs of the region Small, low-cost, portable air sensors is one for the next decade or more. Working with the Fraser emerging, and rapidly growing, air quality Valley Regional District, the review will identify new monitoring technology. These sensors are popular and emerging air quality monitoring technology and among citizen scientists to measure air quality how it may fit within existing network operations, where they live, work and play, but the performance which also includes a mobile air monitoring unit of these sensors can vary widely. In a connected (MAMU) and portable equipment. The review will also world, data from these sensors can be used to map provide more information on how ambient air quality air quality changes across cities and regions. Metro monitoring can improve our understanding of near- Vancouver is studying the strengths and limitations road environments, impacts of wildfire smoke, climate of some of these sensors and how they might play a change, rail- and port-related emissions and other role in expanding our air monitoring capabilities. important sources of emissions in our airshed.
Where’s MAMU? MAMU, our Mobile Air Monitoring Unit, is used for specialized studies in locations where there are no air monitoring stations, or to measure a specific pollutant.
In March 2020, MAMU began monitoring air quality on Musqueam’s Indian Reserve No. 2 lands in Vancouver. The monitoring will provide information on air quality in the Musqueam community, and support Metro Vancouver’s Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Biosolids Dewatering Facility project. Data collected by MAMU will be used to track air quality during the project, help the new facility perform as intended, and compare air quality at Musqueam with nearby monitoring stations and other parts of the region.
18 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee Understanding VOC
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are organic chemicals found in the air. They include hundreds of different substances, with each one present at relatively low concentrations compared to other common air contaminants. However, collectively VOC can pack an air quality punch.
Locally, VOC are a concern for two main reasons: certain ‘toxic’ VOC can have negative health effects, and some VOC can interact with other pollutants in the presence of sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a harmful common air contaminant.
Toxic VOC found in the Metro Vancouver region include benzene. Benzene has both short-term and long-term inhalation exposure effects and can cause cancer. Sources of benzene include vehicle exhaust, gasoline service stations, refineries and tank farms, and residential wood burning. At current levels in the region’s air, benzene poses a higher cancer risk according to Health Canada’s guidelines; however, levels have decreased over the last two decades, mainly due to improvements in the transportation and refinery industries brought about by federal gasoline regulations.
See Caring for the Air 2015 for more information about toxic air pollutants.
Ethylene has a high potential to form ground- level ozone. Ground-level ozone can contribute to smog and health issues. Ethylene occurs naturally and is also manufactured to create products such as plastics. Ethylene is emitted by fruits, flowers, leaves and roots, as well as the burning of vegetation and agricultural waste, and the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Average concentrations of ethylene have steadily decreased over the last two decades, although peak concentrations have not changed much Metro Vancouver measures VOC throughout the since the early 2000s. region using specialized monitoring equipment.
Caring for the Air 2020 19
Climate Action Committee How Are VOC Emissions Changing?
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are found in products we use every day such as household cleaning products, personal care products, paints and adhesives. Metro Vancouver tracks VOC emissions in the region every five years through our air emissions inventory.
Largest VOC sources in Metro Vancouver
17% 10% Trees and vegetation Non-road Engines 3% 42% 5% Paints and 15% Industrial
chemical products Cars and light trucks sources Fuel Distribution
What is the VOC Forecast for 2035? Between 2015 and 2035, VOC emissions are expected to decrease and then increase as our population grows and there will be more people living in the region using paints and chemical products.
40% 63% 4%
Paints and Chemical Products Cars and Light Trucks Non-road Engines Why? Population Increase Vehicle Emission Standards Non-road Engine Emission Standards
Metro Vancouver manages air emissions, including VOC, through a system of permits and regulations. Also, the federal government is committed to reducing VOC emissions from solvents in consumer and commercial products such as household cleaning products, personal care products, paints and adhesives. Metro Vancouver worked with the federal government and other agencies to develop a Regional Ground Level Ozone Strategy that provides a foundation for reducing emissions, including VOC, that contribute to the formation of ground- level ozone in the Lower Fraser Valley.
20 Caring for the Air 2020
Climate Action Committee officially opened in March 2018 and is North America’s first closed-loop integrated waste management Turning facility. By using renewable natural gas to power their fleet of waste collection trucks, and using the extra gas Food Waste produced to power other service vehicles and the District Energy System, the City of Surrey can generate enough clean energy to reduce corporate GHG into Fuel emissions by approximately 40,000 tCO2e. Not only is the Surrey Biofuel Facility a clean energy powerhouse, it’s also equipped with world-class For several years, municipal curbside organics technology to deal with odour. Before the air is collection programs in the region have been released through a 20-storey tall stack, it passes diverting organic waste from landfills to through an ammonia scrubber, a water spray, and then composting. Composting is nature’s way of a woody bio-filter to remove and absorb odours. recycling, turning organic waste into a product Each year, the Surrey Biofuel Facility can process that can be used to enrich our gardens, while about 115,000 tonnes of organic waste from more reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Now, new than 150,000 Surrey households, local industrial, facilities are taking food waste and creating commercial and institutional operations, and other clean fuel for buildings and vehicles, in neighbouring municipalities in the region. That’s enough organic waste to produce 120,000 gigajoules addition to compost. of renewable natural gas, which is enough energy to heat over 1,300 homes for a year. Through a state- The innovative Surrey Biofuel Facility takes organic of-the-art process, the facility converts organic waste waste recycling to the next level: using a process from across the region into renewable natural gas and similar to composting, it transforms organic waste compost, all while effectively mitigating odour impacts into renewable natural gas and compost. The facility on the community.
Organics are picked up by the city’s waste collection trucks
Trucks haul the organics to the Biofuel Facility
Collection trucks continue to collect the organics Organics are turned into renewable natural gas and compost
Caring for the Air 2020 21 Renewable natural gas fuels the waste collection trucks
Climate Action Committee If you have questions or comments about Caring for the Air, please contact us at [email protected] or 604.432.6200.
Electronic copies of this and previous editions of Caring for the Air can be found on metrovancouver.org
Climate Action Committee ATTACHMENT 2
Improving air quality and taking Improving air quality and taking Improving air quality and taking action on climate change. action on climate change. action on climate change. Caring Caring Caring for the Air for the Air for the Air 2020 2020 2020
In this issue In this issue In this issue
Climate leadership Climate leadership Climate leadership
Be part of the Clean Air Plan Be part of the Clean Air Plan Be part of the Clean Air Plan What the new wood smoke bylaw What the new wood smoke bylaw What the new wood smoke bylaw could mean for you could mean for you could mean for you
Climate Action Committee Find out more about… Find out more about… Find out more about…
■ Emissions from traffic including heavy trucks ■ Emissions from traffic including heavy trucks ■ Emissions from traffic including heavy trucks and ride-hailing and ride-hailing and ride-hailing
■ How to choose a daycare to minimize ■ How to choose a daycare to minimize ■ How to choose a daycare to minimize exposure to air contaminants exposure to air contaminants exposure to air contaminants
■ New air quality objectives and what they ■ New air quality objectives and what they ■ New air quality objectives and what they mean for residents mean for residents mean for residents
■ How volatile organic compounds are ■ How volatile organic compounds are ■ How volatile organic compounds are changing in our region changing in our region changing in our region
■ How Metro Vancouver handles air ■ How Metro Vancouver handles air ■ How Metro Vancouver handles air quality complaints quality complaints quality complaints
■ Updates to Metro Vancouver’s air ■ Updates to Metro Vancouver’s air ■ Updates to Metro Vancouver’s air monitoring network monitoring network monitoring network
■ And more… ■ And more… ■ And more…
Caring for the Air Caring for the Air Caring for the Air 2020 2020 2020
In this issue In this issue In this issue
Climate leadership Climate leadership Climate leadership Be part of the Clean Air Plan Be part of the Clean Air Plan Be part of the Clean Air Plan What the new wood smoke bylaw What the new wood smoke bylaw What the new wood smoke bylaw could mean for you could mean for you could mean for you
Get Your Copy of Get Your Copy of Get Your Copy of Caring for the Air 2020 Caring for the Air 2020 Caring for the Air 2020
Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Or online: www.metrovancouver.org Or online: www.metrovancouver.org Or online: www.metrovancouver.org (search: Caring for the Air) (search: Caring for the Air) (search: Caring for the Air)
39704777 Climate Action Committee 5.2
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Shelina Sidi, Senior Project Engineer Derek Jennejohn, Lead Senior Engineer Parks and Environment Department
Date: May 22, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region
RECOMMENDATION That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region”.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY At its May 2020 meeting, the Climate Action Committee received a request from a delegation that Metro Vancouver institute a regional annual measuring and reporting system for greenhouse gas emissions. Metro Vancouver is developing annual reporting of greenhouse gas emissions as part of Climate 2050, to provide tracking of progress towards the reduction targets that have been established for the region. Staff will work with member jurisdictions, the Province and others to implement annual GHG reporting in an incremental fashion, beginning with the most significant sources of GHG emissions.
PURPOSE To provide the Climate Action Committee with an update on proposed implementation of annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting from 2020 onwards, to track progress toward the region’s emission reduction targets of 45% below 2010 levels by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2050, as well as provide GHG emissions data at a municipal level.
BACKGROUND Metro Vancouver prepares an inventory of emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases every five years, with the most recent inventory completed for the year 2015. The emissions inventory is an important tool for air quality and greenhouse gas management planning in the region, allowing for tracking of progress in achieving regional goals and targets, and identifying and prioritizing new actions. The inventory covers the Lower Fraser Valley airshed, encompassing Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, and Whatcom County in Washington State. The inventory includes estimates of emissions for a broad range of sources, including transportation, industry, buildings and other sources, and spatially allocates emissions to the municipality in which the emission occurs. The inventory also reports on historical trends and projections of future emissions in five year increments.
On May 15, 2020, the Committee received a delegation from Isaac Beevor and Katelyn Maki, local climate organizers, requesting that Metro Vancouver institute a regional annual measuring and reporting system for greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the Global Protocol for Communities, from 2020 onwards. The Committee subsequently passed the motion:
39156930
Climate Action Committee Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 3
That the Climate Action Committee direct staff to report back with an assessment of implementing annual regional Greenhouse Gas measuring and reporting as part of Climate 2050 as requested by the delegation at the May 15, 2020 meeting of the Climate Action Committee.
This report responds to the Committee’s direction to assess and report on implementation of an annual GHG reporting system for the region and member jurisdictions.
Development of an Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Metro Vancouver and many of its member jurisdictions have set targets to reduce GHG emissions in the near term and long term. While Metro Vancouver’s emissions inventory provides insights into emission trends and forecasts in the region, and ongoing information to evaluate the performance of programs and actions to manage emissions, the five year reporting frequency is not sufficient for timely tracking of progress towards GHG targets, particularly for 2030. Given the transformative GHG reduction targets that have been established, an annual GHG reporting system is needed not only to allow the region and member jurisdictions to better track progress being made in reducing GHG emissions and identify areas where emissions could be reduced further, but also to engage stakeholders and decision-makers.
The Province has in the past prepared a Community Energy and Emissions Inventory (CEEI) to provide local governments with data on energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and supporting indicators, to assist them with meeting their Climate Action Charter commitments. However, data was last published in 2012, and prior to that, for 2007 and 2010.
Climate 2050 includes an online reporting and communication tool, which will feature examples of current actions from both Metro Vancouver and its members, showcase best practices, and engage the public and stakeholders. The online tool will also provide key indicators, including GHG emissions, and progress towards GHG reduction targets.
The Climate 2050 online tool is under development, and will be synchronized with Metro Vancouver’s current development of a 2020 emissions inventory. Staff are preparing a work plan which will include a process to develop annual greenhouse gas emissions data at the regional and municipal level. The inventory will also continue to include estimates of air pollutant emissions (e.g., nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, etc.) on its existing 5-year cycle.
Climate Action Committee Annual Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions for the Metro Vancouver Region Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 3 of 3
Development of an annual GHG inventory will begin with the highest-emitting sectors, such as transportation, buildings and industry, which are also the first 3 issue areas where staff have initiated outreach on the development of Climate 2050 Roadmaps. The annual GHG inventory is proposed to expand incrementally, to a full suite of emission sources, depending on program budgets, resourcing and data availability. Metro Vancouver’s existing emissions inventory includes data and estimates that would generally allow for reporting of Scope 1 and 2 emissions, which include emissions from within a municipal boundary, as well as emissions from use of electricity, steam, and/or heating/cooling supplied by grids, which may or may not cross municipal boundaries. Scope 3 emissions, which are GHG emissions that occur outside municipal boundaries as a result of activities taking places within municipal boundaries (e.g., out of region travel, embodied emissions, etc.), would need to be developed. Metro Vancouver’s 2020 work plan includes initial development of a consumption-based emissions inventory, which will help begin to inform Scope 3 emissions.
Additionally, as 2020 is an atypical year due to the impacts of COVID-19, emission estimates for 2019 may also need to be developed, potentially for key sectors or those sectors most impacted by the effects of COVID-19. Development of 2019 estimates would help understand the emissions impact of COVID-19, and help develop an appropriate baseline for forecasting future GHG emissions.
Staff have engaged the Province and member jurisdictions to discuss the approach to annual reporting, highlighting the need for timely annual GHG data. As part of these discussions, staff will review estimation methodologies with the Province and others, including the Global Protocol for Communities, to determine a consistent and efficient means of compiling annual inventories.
ALTERNATIVES This is an information report. No alternatives are presented.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The resources required to develop Metro Vancouver’s existing five-year emissions inventory are included in approved program budgets, including both staff and consulting resources. Development of an annual GHG emissions reporting system will require additional resources or shifting of current resources, which will be identified during the budget process for 2021 and future years.
CONCLUSION Metro Vancouver staff have engaged in discussions with member jurisdictions on the need and resources available to institute an annual GHG reporting system to assist with tracking progress in meeting near and long term GHG emission reduction targets. At its May meeting, the Climate Action Committee received a delegation from local climate organizers requesting that Metro Vancouver coordinate an annual GHG reporting system for the region. The Climate 2050 Strategic Framework, adopted by the Board in 2018, includes an online reporting and communication tool, which will provide key indicators, including GHG emissions, and progress towards GHG reduction targets. Working with member jurisdictions and the Province, Metro Vancouver intends to implement annual reporting of GHG emissions as part of Climate 2050, beginning with the 2020 emissions inventory, including reporting of GHG emissions data at the regional and municipal level.
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Climate Action Committee 5.4
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Karen Storry, Senior Project Engineer, Solid Waste Services Department Lillian Zaremba, Program Manager Utility Residuals Management, Liquid Waste Services Department John Lindner, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment Department
Date: May 22, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Waste Management
RECOMMENDATION That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Waste Management”.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In October 2019, the MVRD Board directed staff to begin an integrated engagement process for Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan, using a series of issue area discussion papers. Staff have developed a draft discussion paper on waste management, and linkages to climate change and air quality. The discussion paper will support public, stakeholder and government engagement for Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan in 2020. The draft waste management discussion paper is being presented to the Climate Action Committee for information, and feedback provided will be incorporated into the final paper and associated engagement process.
PURPOSE To provide the Climate Action Committee with information about the waste management discussion paper to support development of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps and the Clean Air Plan.
BACKGROUND Climate 2050 is an overarching long-term strategy that will guide our region's policies and collective actions to transition to a carbon neutral and resilient region over the next 30 years. Metro Vancouver is implementing Climate 2050 through ten issue area Roadmaps, which will describe long-term goals, targets, strategies and actions to reduce regional greenhouse gases and ensure that this region is resilient to climate change impacts. Implementation of the Roadmaps will be driven by Metro Vancouver’s management plans and other policies, including the Clean Air Plan and the upcoming updates to Metro Vancouver’s Liquid Waste Management Plan and Solid Waste Management Plan.
The Clean Air Plan builds on the 2011 Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan, and will identify opportunities for accelerated emissions reductions, including greenhouse gas emission reduction actions. These actions will help protect human health and the environment and avoid dangerous levels of climate change.
On October 4, 2019, the MVRD Board directed staff to begin an integrated engagement process for Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan, using a series of issue area discussion papers. Discussion papers
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on buildings, industry, transportation, agriculture, and nature and ecosystems were presented to the Climate Action Committee and MVRD Board in 2019 and 2020.
This report presents a draft discussion paper on the waste management issue area (Attachment 1), which will support engagement on greenhouse gas reductions and air quality issues related to this issue area, as well as climate adaptation.
WASTE MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION PAPER The waste management discussion paper includes long-term goals (i.e., with expected achievement in 2050 and beyond) for air quality and climate change, as shown below. • Solid Waste Management o The regional solid waste management system is carbon neutral. o Air contaminant emissions from solid waste management do not impact public health, quality of life and the environment. o Businesses, governments and residents follow circular economy business models, policies and lifestyles, which significantly reduce consumption-related emissions. • Liquid Waste Management o The regional liquid waste management system is better than carbon neutral, and is a net provider of energy. o Air contaminant emissions from liquid waste management do not impact public health, quality of life and the environment.
The discussion paper reflects feedback provided by the Climate Action Committee at its meeting on June 14, 2019. The discussion paper includes example targets, actions and big ideas from other jurisdictions, to support discussions to identify targets and actions for this region. The paper also lists expected climate hazards for the region’s waste management system. Feedback provided by the Committee on the attached draft discussion paper will be incorporated into the final version.
Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Waste Management Engagement Activities Metro Vancouver is planning activities to engage the public, First Nations, stakeholders and other governments, about the waste management issue area, including the following: • Present to Liquid Waste Committee and Zero Waste Committee; • Present to Regional Engineers Advisory Committee and its sub-committees; • Public and stakeholder questionnaire and webinar; and • Feedback opportunities promoted on social media.
Additional engagement activities will be considered where possible as Metro Vancouver continues to adapt to the challenges associated with COVID-19.
Engagement is intended to provide sufficient opportunity to interested parties to learn about Climate 2050 Roadmaps and the Clean Air Plan, and to provide feedback. Details on engagement will be available on the Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan websites (References 1 and 2, respectively), including any new or updated activities. Feedback from the Committee is sought on the engagement activities presented.
Climate Action Committee Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Paper on Waste Management Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 3 of 3
ALTERNATIVES This is an information report. No alternatives are presented.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The overall resources required to develop and engage on Climate 2050 Roadmaps and the Clean Air Plan have been approved in program budgets for 2020, including consulting amounts of $219,000 and staff time, to support the engagement process and evaluation of the climate and air quality impacts of actions. Alignment of engagement activities and deliverables for the Clean Air Plan with the development of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps is intended to make the best use of resources available, as well as minimize time commitments for interested parties providing feedback.
CONCLUSION Metro Vancouver is implementing Climate 2050, a long-term strategy to achieve a carbon neutral and resilient region over the next 30 years. Metro Vancouver is also developing the Clean Air Plan to identify actions to reduce emissions of air contaminants, including greenhouse gases, in our region over the next 10 years. A series of issue area discussion papers are being developed, to support the engagement processes for Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan.
The draft discussion paper presented here on the waste management issue area identifies goals, example targets and actions for greenhouse gas reductions and air quality management. Feedback from the public, stakeholders and other governments will support the development of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps and the Clean Air Plan.
Attachment Waste Management Discussion Paper, draft dated May 2020 (37396761)
References 1. www.metrovancouver.org/climate2050 2. www.metrovancouver.org/services/air-quality/projects-initiatives/clean-air-plan/
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Climate Action Committee ATTACHMENT
Waste Management Discussion Paper to support Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan
Reducing emissions and increasing climate resilience for waste management systems in the Metro Vancouver region over the next 10 to 30 years
Draft June 2020
Climate Action Committee
Your feedback is valued.
This paper was drafted in Spring 2020, and introduced for public and stakeholder comment during the COVID-19 pandemic response. Metro Vancouver assesses work plans on a case by case basis to determine if the COVID-19 pandemic response requires an adjustment to any work plans, including engagement components. For air quality and climate change programs and initiatives, this means continuing with work plans that protect human health and the environment, but adjusting how we approach engagement.
Goals and targets in Metro Vancouver’s climate-related plans are science-based and remain a priority. The interim target of a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 2010 levels by 2030 has a time horizon of less than ten years. Pursuing a carbon-neutral region by 2050 requires taking bold action now.
Across the globe, the pandemic response has had an unexpected benefit of significant environmental improvements. This provides a glimpse of what is possible and what we can achieve with coordinated efforts and common goals.
Public feedback is valued and project teams continue to seek input, create online feedback opportunities, and ensure feedback is reflected as policy development moves forward. Documents, feedback forms, and direct email links to the project team are all posted to the Metro Vancouver website, metrovancouver.org, search “Clean Air Plan” or “Climate 2050”.
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OVERVIEW
Waste management facilities in the region handle the solid waste (i.e., garbage, recycling, etc.) and liquid waste (i.e., wastewater from toilets, sinks, etc.) of half the population of BC. These facilities are a multi-billion-dollar investment that protects people and the natural environment. As we advance our waste management practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we can also reduce the vulnerability of waste management infrastructure to climate hazards like floods and wildfires, and contribute to a more resilient economy.
Greenhouse gas emissions from solid waste are driven by the end-of-life management of goods and products, including disposal, recycling and composting. Air contaminant emissions from liquid waste are linked to population size, which is expected to rise. We need to accelerate our climate actions to reduce consumption-related emissions, improve air quality, and achieve carbon neutral waste management.
We’re creating a roadmap to help us reach a carbon neutral, resilient future. By 2050, we can reduce solid waste emissions by further preventing and diverting waste through reuse and recycling, transitioning to a circular economy that designs out waste, and recovering more low-carbon energy from solid waste sources. Liquid waste management can continue to focus on generating more low- carbon energy.
This roadmap development will align with the upcoming update to Metro Vancouver’s solid waste management plan and liquid waste management plan.
Please give your feedback on these ideas by September 30, 2020.
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Table of Contents
Introduction ...... 2 Planning for the Future ...... 2 Meeting Long-term Targets for the Region ...... 4 Climate Change Targets ...... 4 Air Quality Targets ...... 5 We Need Your Feedback ...... 5
Regional Waste Management Emissions and Air Quality ...... 7 Emission Sources ...... 7 Current Actions to Reduce Emissions from Waste Management ...... 8 Our Emissions Reduction Opportunity ...... 11 Discussion: Reducing Emissions from Solid Waste and Liquid Waste ...... 12 Proposed Long-Term Goals for Emission Reductions from Solid Waste and Liquid Waste Management ...... 12 Example Waste Emission Reduction Targets ...... 13 Example Waste Management Emission Reduction Actions ...... 13 Potential Big Ideas for Waste Management Emission Reductions ...... 14
Waste Management and Adaptation to Climate Change ...... 17
Feedback and Engagement Process ...... 18 Participation Opportunities ...... 18 How Feedback Will Be Used ...... 18
Glossary ...... 20
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Introduction Underlined words are key concepts and are defined in the Glossary on page 20. Planning for the Future Key questions for feedback are marked with Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan will be the key climate change and air quality planning documents for Metro Vancouver to support a transition to a carbon neutral and resilient region, while continuing to improve air quality to protect public health and the environment.
Climate 2050 is an overarching long-term strategy that will guide our region's policies and collective actions to transition to a carbon neutral and resilient region over the next 30 years. Metro Vancouver is implementing Climate 2050 through 10 issue area Roadmaps (see Figure 1), which will describe how the region can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change impacts. Implementation of the Roadmaps will be driven by Metro Vancouver’s management plans and other policies, including the Clean Air Plan.
The Clean Air Plan is the near-term action plan that will set Metro Vancouver’s direction for air quality and greenhouse gas management for the next 10 years. The Plan will outline actions to reduce emissions of air contaminants, including greenhouse gases, from all regional sources. The Clean Air Plan will primarily be organized around six issue areas (see Figure 1). More information on the relationship between the Clean Air Plan, Climate 2050 and the issue areas is available in the Clean Air Plan Backgrounder.
Figure 1: Issue areas for Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan; overlapping issue areas are highlighted in blue.
This discussion paper is about the waste management systems in the Metro Vancouver region and how they impact regional air contaminant emissions, including greenhouse gases. The paper examines how liquid waste and solid waste are managed in the region as well as how transitioning to a circular economy can help reduce global emissions of greenhouse gases. Waste management facilities are key infrastructure for the region, handling the solid and liquid waste of half the population of BC, and are a multi-billion-dollar investment to protect people and the natural environment. The paper is intended to
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promote discussion and enable feedback that will be used in the Clean Air Plan and the Climate 2050 Waste Roadmap.
The feedback will also inform other planning documents for regional services such as the upcoming updates to the Metro Vancouver Integrated Solid Waste and Resource Management Plan and the Metro Vancouver Integrated Liquid Waste and Resource Management Plan. These two plans support the region in diverting solid waste from disposal and utilizing energy from solid and liquid waste, thereby reducing emissions of air contaminants, including greenhouse gases.
INFO BOX: Solid Waste
Solid waste is the garbage and recycling from residences, businesses, institutions, and construction and demolition. In this region, we generate close to 3 million tonnes of waste per year, of which about 2 million tonnes is recycled. Garbage and recycling are collected and processed at facilities such as transfer stations and drop-off depots. Final disposal of garbage is managed at the Metro Vancouver Waste-to- Energy Facility and the Vancouver Landfill. Garbage in excess of what can be managed locally is shipped to landfills outside the region. Recyclables are managed at public and private facilities throughout the region. A relatively small but measurable amount of yard trimmings and land clearing waste is burned on residential and commercial properties.
INFO BOX: Liquid Waste
Liquid waste (often called wastewater) comes from flushing toilets, doing laundry, washing dishes, and anything else that sends “used” water into a drain. In this region, about 80% of wastewater comes from our homes; the rest is generated by commercial and industrial operations. Every day, Metro Vancouver residents, businesses and industries produce about 1 billion litres of wastewater.
Wastewater is collected through a network of sewers, which carry it to five wastewater treatment plants. Here, it is treated, heat and organic material are recovered and the treated wastewater is released into receiving waters. Wastewater also includes rainwater runoff in areas of the region where stormwater is not handled by separate sewers.
INFO BOX: Circular Economy and Climate Change
The global production of goods is estimated to generate 45% of global greenhouse gas emissions every year. Converting our current linear economy (“take-make-dispose”) to a circular economy could reduce annual global greenhouse gas emissions from the production of goods by over 40%.1 This transition would gradually decouple economic activity from the consumption of finite resources by designing waste out of the system and helping to regenerate natural systems. Circular economy thinking applies to technological products like cars, clothes and building materials, as well as biological products like food and organic waste.
1 Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2019. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/assets/downloads/Completing_The_Picture_How_The_Circular_Econ omy-_Tackles_Climate_Change_V3_26_September.pdf
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In a circular economy, products and systems have been re-designed so that materials can be reused, recycled and recovered during the various stages of production, reducing the need to extract virgin materials and waste that needs to be disposed. All products would be designed to be retained after their initial use through reuse, repair and remanufacturing, which prevents the creation of waste. Keeping products functioning at their highest potential helps reduce embodied emissions, which are the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the manufacture and distribution of new products. Find more at www.nzwa.ca.
[GRAPHIC on circular economy. Currently under development.]
Meeting Long-Term Targets for the Region
Metro Vancouver, together with its member jurisdictions, has been taking action on air quality and greenhouse gases for decades. But actions must be accelerated to reduce our impacts on global climate change, and to protect public health and the environment. The region also needs to adapt to the anticipated impacts from a changing climate.
There is significant overlap between the sources of greenhouse gases and common air contaminants, so actions that reduce emissions to protect public health can often (but not always) reduce greenhouse gases, and vice versa. Metro Vancouver aims to maximize co-benefits by focusing on policies and programs that reduce both greenhouse gases and common air contaminants.
Climate Change Targets
Climate change is directly associated with greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide. While emissions are global, we all have a shared responsibility to take local action. The major sources of greenhouse gases in this region are transportation, buildings and industry, with smaller contributions from waste management and agriculture. Climate change projections for this region by the year 2050 include longer, hotter and drier summers, warmer and wetter fall and winter seasons with decreased snowpack, and more extreme weather.
Metro Vancouver has adopted the following regional climate change targets:
1. reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030;
2. become a carbon neutral region by 2050; and
3. ensure our infrastructure, ecosystems, and communities are resilient to the impacts of climate change.
Although the region has made progress over the past 15 to 20 years, we need to accelerate our climate actions to meet these targets and avoid dangerous impacts of climate change. More information on climate change in our region is available on the Climate 2050 website.
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We need to accelerate our climate actions to meet these targets and avoid dangerous impacts of climate change.
Air Quality Targets
Health researchers have found that there are no known safe levels for some common air contaminants, including fine particulate matter, ground-level ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Health Canada estimates that at least 1,600 British Columbians die prematurely every year due to common air contaminants and many more live with the associated health effects.2
As part of the Clean Air Plan, Metro Vancouver has proposed two new regional air quality targets for 2030:
1. ambient air quality in the region meets or is better than ambient air quality objectives and standards set by Metro Vancouver, the BC Government and the Government of Canada; and
2. increase the amount of time that visual air quality is classified as excellent.
Please consider if these are the right air quality targets for the region.
Residents in the region generally experience good air quality, but additional emission reduction actions are needed to continue protecting human health and the environment.
More information on the health and environmental impacts of air contaminants is listed in the Glossary (page 20) and on the Metro Vancouver website.
Additional emission reduction actions are needed to continue protecting human health and the environment.
We Need Your Feedback
The purpose of this waste management discussion paper is to enable feedback on key air quality and climate change issues related to managing solid and liquid waste and on ways to reduce emissions and
2 Health Canada, 2019. Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Canada. http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/9.874080/publication.html
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adapt to a changing climate. This discussion paper is intended for the public, stakeholders and other governments, including First Nations.
The goals, targets and actions identified herein are considered potential opportunities for the region’s solid and liquid waste management systems. We must continue to reduce emissions from managing our waste, and ensure that waste management systems are resilient to a changing climate, and we need your help to figure out the best way forward.
Climate change and degraded air quality impact some neighbourhoods, households and individuals more than others. Also, some households are better able to prepare for and protect themselves from climate change and air quality impacts. A priority of both the Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050 is to incorporate the voices and needs of a full range of communities into program and policy design to ensure that fairness and equity are reflected in the actions that Metro Vancouver implements or advocates for. Policies and programs that reduce emissions should support an equitable distribution of benefits and costs, such as increased economic opportunities in a low-emission and carbon neutral economy, affordable housing, and more diverse transportation options. Issues of intergenerational equity will also be considered.
Specific opportunities to provide feedback are described under Feedback and Engagement Process, on page 18.
Linkages to Other Issue Areas
There are many linkages between waste management and other issue areas covered by Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan. Metro Vancouver is considering these linkages when developing policies and actions. Some of the related issue areas for solid and liquid waste management include:
• Infrastructure – transfer stations, recycling facilities, disposal facilities, wastewater treatment plants and other components of the waste management system are key to the region’s infrastructure and must be adapted to operate in a changing climate;
• Buildings – addressing embodied emissions and reducing the disposal of building materials in landfill can lessen global greenhouse gas emissions and regional emissions from solid waste;
• Transportation – modernizing solid waste collection routes and using newer fleets with cleaner fuels can minimize air contaminant emissions, including greenhouse gases, and improve the economics of solid waste management;
• Energy – capturing heat and fuels from solid waste and liquid waste systems provides low-carbon sources of energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions in the region;
• Industry – enhancing opportunities for maximizing the use of recycled materials as feedstocks to industry will enhance waste diversion opportunities in the region. These issue areas will be explored in discussion papers of their own. As discussion papers are developed, they will be made available on the Metro Vancouver website.
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Regional Waste Management Emissions and Air Quality
Emission Sources
Managing solid waste and liquid waste generates air contaminants, including greenhouse gases and odorous air contaminants. Solid waste emissions are driven by the end-of-life management of goods and products, including disposal, recycling and composting. Air contaminant emissions related to managing liquid waste are directly associated with the size of the regional population, which is expected to grow.
According to Metro Vancouver’s 2015 emissions inventory, solid and liquid waste management account for 3% of regional greenhouse gas emissions. In terms of air quality, the management of solid and liquid waste generates sulphur oxides and ammonia emissions; emissions of these and other air contaminants from waste management have been dropping in recent years.
Figure 2: Contribution of different emission sources to total regional greenhouse gas emissions. The contribution from solid waste and liquid waste management is highlighted in dark blue.
The largest sources of emissions from solid waste management in our region are landfills, the Waste-to- Energy Facility and organic waste management facilities. Decomposing solid waste at landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas; landfills are the largest source of greenhouse gases from waste management in the region. The Waste-to-Energy Facility is the largest source of sulphur oxides from waste management. Organic waste management facilities generate odorous air contaminants, which can have negative impacts on human health. The emissions from hauling recycling and solid waste are considered in the Transportation Discussion Paper.
Backyard burning of woody and other organic debris is a small source of emissions within the region. For the purposes of this discussion paper these emissions are grouped with other solid waste management emissions.
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The five wastewater treatment plants in the region are the primary source of emissions from liquid waste management in the region; air contaminants of interest released by these plants include ammonia and odorous air contaminants.
Opportunities to reduce emissions from solid waste management include achieving higher levels of waste prevention and diversion through reuse and recycling, transitioning to a circular economy, and recovering more energy from solid waste sources. Opportunities to reduce emissions associated with liquid waste will include a focus on generating more low-carbon energy.
Current Actions to Reduce Emissions from Waste Management
Metro Vancouver, together with other local governments and the BC Government, is already reducing emissions from solid and liquid waste management. Significant current actions in our region are outlined below.
(Additional information on the actions is listed in the web links shown.)
Solid Waste Management – Diversion
1. Disposal Ban Programs support and expand the recycling and reuse of a range of products, including paper, plastic, metals, organics (food scraps, yard waste, and wood waste), reducing emissions associated with solid waste disposal. Metro Vancouver’s organics ban has diverted approximately two-thirds of organics (or 430,000 tonnes annually) from landfills and to digester and composting facilities that generate low-carbon energy and recovers nutrients that can be used in compost. The decay of organics in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and so diversion to facilities is particularly important (Metro Vancouver).
2. Behaviour change campaigns create awareness of the amount of waste generated by households and the associated environmental and economic impacts, and encourage changes in behaviours to mitigate those impacts. In some cases, the campaign provides ideas for preventing waste (e.g., Love Food Hate Waste; Think Thrice; Create Memories, Not Garbage). In other cases, the campaigns are designed to support disposal bans (e.g., Food Scraps Aren’t Garbage, Put Waste in Its Place). (Metro Vancouver, local governments).
3. Extended Producer Responsibility Programs require goods manufacturers to fund and manage the end-of-life disposal of products, which reduces landfill emissions (BC Government).
4. National Zero Waste Council, an initiative of Metro Vancouver, brings together businesses, industry, governments and community organizations to advance waste prevention and the transition to a circular economy in Canada (Metro Vancouver and members).
5. Food Recovery Programs collect safe and nutritious surplus foods from food processors, distributors, grocery stores and food services and deliver them to small businesses, food banks and community organizations. Effective food recovery programs reduce food waste and emissions while feeding people (Food Mesh, Food Stash, Greater Vancouver Food Bank).
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6. The National Industrial Symbiosis Program pilot initiative supports circular supply chains by identifying opportunities for partnering between businesses to use waste streams as a resource, reducing solid waste and greenhouse gas emissions (Lighthouse).
Solid Waste Management – Reducing Embodied Emissions
7. Demolition recycling requirements set minimum recycling and reuse requirements for demolition and construction projects, which help maintain the carbon stored in construction lumber (Coquitlam, New Westminster, City of North Vancouver, Port Moody, Surrey, Richmond, Vancouver, West Vancouver).
8. Sharing platforms use digital technologies and shared ownership to increase the use of underused assets, such as cars, tools and musical instruments (Evo, Modo, Vancouver Tool Library, Vancouver Public Library).
9. Carbon Price Policy considers greenhouse gas emissions in option analyses for all corporate projects or initiatives (Metro Vancouver).
10. Consumption-based emissions inventories help communities understand the embodied emissions of their activities and consumption habits, and along with potential policy interventions can reduce community greenhouse gas emissions (City of North Vancouver).
11. Water treatment and solid waste residuals are beneficially used in local cement manufacturing, which reduces emissions from landfills and mining raw materials (Metro Vancouver).
Solid Waste Management – Energy Recovery and Generation
12. Landfill biogas capture and utilization reduce methane emissions from landfills as well as demand for other energy sources (Metro Vancouver, Delta, Vancouver).
13. Landfill Gas Management Regulation sets requirements for landfill gas capture from large landfills (BC Government).
14. Biofuel facilities convert organic waste into renewable natural gas (Surrey).
Solid Waste Management – Controlling Emissions
15. Emission controls reduce air contaminant emissions from the Waste-to-Energy Facility (Metro Vancouver).
16. Organic waste management facilities are fully enclosed to manage odours generated during the composting of organics (Surrey).
17. Metro Vancouver Odour Management Framework is continually being applied and enhanced (Metro Vancouver).
18. Authorization of emissions from open-air burning of vegetative debris reduces the impacts of smoke emissions (Metro Vancouver).
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19. Options to reduce smoke emissions from open-air burning of vegetative debris are being explored (Metro Vancouver).
Liquid Waste Management
20. Waste heat recovered from sewage pipes is used in district energy systems to heat buildings (Vancouver, Metro Vancouver).
21. Biogas produced during wastewater treatment is captured to provide energy for use within wastewater treatment plants (Metro Vancouver).
22. Odour control systems reduce odour emissions from the sewer system and wastewater treatment plants (Metro Vancouver).
23. Biosolids used for land reclamation and restoration help store carbon in soil and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers (Metro Vancouver).
24. Biosolids covering decommissioned landfills reduce climate change impacts by converting the methane in escaping landfill gas into carbon dioxide, a less potent greenhouse gas (Metro Vancouver).
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Roles and Responsibilities in Solid and Liquid Waste Management
Metro Vancouver is responsible for managing solid waste and liquid waste generated in the region through waste management plans approved by the BC Government. Metro Vancouver works to divert materials from entering the solid waste systems and recover materials and energy from solid and liquid waste streams to minimize environmental impacts.
Under authority delegated by the BC Government in the Environmental Management Act, Metro Vancouver is also responsible for managing and regulating air quality and greenhouse gases in the region, including emissions from waste management.
Air quality management and climate action require close coordination among all governments as well as businesses, utilities, institutions and residents. The roles of key partners in reducing waste emissions are outlined below.
• BC Government requires regional districts to complete waste management plans for solid and liquid waste, and also establishes criteria for waste management.
• Government of Canada identifies and regulates emissions of toxic substances through limits, standards and related practices, under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, and establishes standards for wastewater treatment.
• Municipalities collect solid waste and transport it to waste management facilities. Some municipalities own and operate waste management infrastructure, and some hire private haulers for solid waste collection and transportation. Municipalities install, operate and maintain sewers to convey liquid waste to Metro Vancouver trunk sewers.
• Industry is increasingly implementing corporate sustainability and zero waste programs, including Extended Producer Responsibility programs. The waste management industry in the region includes haulers that transport waste and recyclables, as well as owners and operators of recycling drop-off and waste processing facilities.
• Local businesses support emission reductions by properly sorting their recycling, adopting circular economy business models, and managing what they put into drains.
• Local residents support emission reductions by buying quality items that last, reusing what they have, repairing items, properly sorting their recycling, and managing what they put into drains.
Our Emissions Reduction Opportunity
Opportunities abound for reducing emissions. Transitioning the region to a circular economy will help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and preserve finite resources. With clear information, consumers and businesses can more easily choose goods and services with lower embodied emissions. Preventing waste as well as expanding reuse and recycling systems will reduce the amount of embodied emissions in the goods sold and consumed. Increasing solid waste diversion rates will require additional collaboration between residents, businesses and governments. New programs, policies and campaigns
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to further reduce emissions from landfills will be considered in the upcoming update to the solid waste management plan.
There are significant opportunities to expand the generation of low-carbon energy sources from solid and liquid waste in this region. For solid waste, these might include renewable natural gas from organic waste, landfill gas capture, increasing heat recovery from solid waste through district energy systems, and solid fuels derived from municipal solid waste (e.g., wood waste). For liquid waste, options include energy from the effluent and biosolids produced by wastewater treatment, as well as heat recovered from sewer pipes. Increasing the local use of compost derived from solid and liquid waste can improve soil health, resulting in more carbon capture.
In addition to generating low-carbon, renewable sources of energy, solid and liquid waste management facilities can implement additional technologies and processes to further reduce energy use and emissions, explore better odour control and monitoring; and explore opportunities for carbon capture.
Discussion: Reducing Emissions from Solid Waste and Liquid Waste Management
The following sections outline proposed goals, example targets, example actions, and potential Big Ideas to reduce emissions from the management of solid and liquid waste in the region.
Proposed Long-Term Goals for Waste Management Emission Reductions
Long-term goals describe a desired future state for low-emission and carbon neutral waste management, with expected achievement in 2050 and beyond. Long-term goals will help identify and prioritize new actions to achieve the emission reduction opportunities from solid waste and liquid waste management.
Please consider the following long-term goals proposed for waste management in our region. Will these goals help us reach our desired future state?
Solid Waste Management
1. The regional solid waste management system is carbon neutral.
2. Air contaminant emissions from solid waste management do not impact public health, quality of life and the environment.
3. Businesses, governments and residents follow circular economy business models, policies and lifestyles, which significantly reduce consumption-related emissions.
Liquid Waste Management
4. The regional liquid waste management system is better than carbon neutral, and is a net provider of energy.
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5. Air contaminant emissions from liquid waste management do not impact public health, quality of life and the environment.
Example Waste Management Emission Reduction Targets
Near-term targets are milestones to support achievement of the long-term goals and will be included in the Climate 2050 Waste Roadmap and the Clean Air Plan. They will also be considered in the upcoming updates to the solid waste and liquid waste management plans.
Please consider the following near-term targets from other jurisdictions. Are any of these the right milestones to help us reach our long-term goals? What should our near- term targets look like?
(Additional information on the targets is listed in the web links shown.)
1. By 2030, reduce net regional greenhouse gas solid waste emissions by 92% from 1990 levels (Portland). 2. By 2030, use 100% renewable energy at Southeast False Creek Neighbourhood Energy Utility (Vancouver).
Example Waste Management Emission Reduction Actions
Actions are the policies and programs, including regulations, incentives and educational outreach campaigns, which will lead to emission reductions. Actions will be included in the Clean Air Plan and the Climate 2050 Waste Roadmap. They will also be considered in the upcoming updates to the solid and liquid waste management plans. In addition to existing actions (see page 8) we need new actions to address the many opportunities we have to further reduce emissions and meet our near- and long-term targets.
Please consider the following actions from other leading jurisdictions, which show a range of actions that could be implemented to reduce emissions. Could any of these help us further reduce emissions to reach our goals? What should new, additional actions look like?
(Additional information on the actions is listed in the web links shown.)
Solid Waste Management
1. Best Available Control Technology requirements for composting facilities reduce common air contaminant emissions (California). 2. Environmental purchasing policies reduce embodied emissions and support recycling by requiring recycled content for items such as office paper (Portland). 3. Construction procurement process considers embodied emissions of materials (Helsinki, Washington State). 4. Consumption-based emissions inventory expands on traditional emissions inventories by estimating the greenhouse gas emissions of the entire lifecycle of goods (manufacturing and production, use, and disposal) (Portland).
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5. No sales tax on the reuse and repair of goods (Sweden). 6. Buildings as material banks increase the value of construction materials to reduce construction and demolition waste and associated emissions (European Union). 7. Cradle to Cradle Certified product standard supports products that are designed to minimize disposal in solid waste streams (Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute). 8. Wood chipping incentive program to reduce backyard burning of wood waste and other organic debris (Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen).
Liquid Waste Management 9. Local biosolids use reduces emissions from hauling them away and supports local community gardens to grow crops and contribute to food banks (Tacoma). 10. Compost procurement programs requires the use of compost, locally sourced where possible, in construction, transportation and development projects (Washington). 11. Quantifying carbon sequestration potential of biosolids from wastewater utility to achieve “Beyond Carbon Neutral” commitment (King County, Washington). 12. Co-digestion of sewage sludge with food waste, agricultural waste or other organics, such as food fats, oils and grease, to enhance the production of biogas in wastewater treatment plant digesters (Oakland, California).
Potential Big Ideas for Waste Management Emission Reductions
To achieve a cleaner, healthier, more equitable future, we need to think big and act quickly. Metro Vancouver has identified several Big Ideas to accelerate emission reductions in waste management. The Big Ideas were selected for different reasons, including potential for significant reductions of air contaminant emissions (including greenhouse gases), ease of implementation or their foundational nature (i.e., they are needed to support other actions).
Please consider the following Big Ideas. Could any of these help us drive significant emission reductions to reach our goals? What other Big Ideas should Metro Vancouver consider?
Big Idea 1: Apply a climate lens when updating the region’s solid waste and liquid waste management plans
Since Metro Vancouver adopted its Integrated Solid Waste and Resource Management Plan in 2011, the region has progressed substantially towards its zero waste and circular economy goals. In 2018, 64% of regional solid waste was diverted through reduction, reuse or recycling. An updated plan will build on the strengths of the current plan and identify opportunities to accelerate waste reduction and diversion and promote a circular economy. The updated plan will also include a key focus on further reducing
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greenhouse gases generated by how we manage solid waste to support the region’s target to be carbon neutral by 2050. Metro Vancouver will work closely with other governments to ensure alignment with climate initiatives such as CleanBC, the provincial climate plan.
The Metro Vancouver Integrated Liquid Waste and Resource Management Plan adopted in 2011 set requirements for Metro Vancouver and its members to track greenhouse gas emissions from liquid waste services as well as to consider risks from the impacts of climate change in liquid waste planning and asset management programs. The forthcoming update to the plan provides Metro Vancouver and its members an opportunity to strengthen and build on current climate change actions. The regulatory authority of the Environmental Management Act can be leveraged to implement the climate change actions approved by the BC Government.
Big Idea 2: Create low-carbon energy from waste
Metro Vancouver’s solid and liquid waste management operations will continue to collect some waste products. Metro Vancouver continues to focus on maximizing the beneficial use of these waste products, converting them to low-carbon energy where possible. Metro Vancouver and its partners are exploring or pursuing several key opportunities to create low-carbon energy from solid waste and liquid waste, as outlined below.
• Alternative Fuel and Recyclables Recovery Centre could recover energy (and recyclables) from small loads at regional transfer stations. About half the waste in small loads is wood, which can be used as a low-carbon fuel at industrial facilities or district heating systems. The feasibility of such a centre is being explored.
• Additional district energy use of waste heat from solid and liquid waste infrastructure, including the Waste-to-Energy Facility, wastewater treatment plants and large sewers (see box: District Energy Opportunities in Metro Vancouver).
• Biosolids are a low-carbon energy source recovered from the liquid waste system. Metro Vancouver is exploring technologies to convert residuals into a fuel that replaces higher carbon fuels such as coal in cement kilns, and is also testing a process that transforms residuals into bio-crude oil that can be refined to create low-carbon transportation fuel.
• Facility to upgrade biogas recovered from wastewater treatment and inject renewable natural gas into the natural gas distribution system is being built.
• Biomethane booster to increase generation of renewable natural gas from the wastewater treatment facilities is being developed with UBC.
Metro Vancouver will continue to explore these and other opportunities to create low-carbon energy for the region. The above projects, if they were all implemented, could reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions by over 100,000 tonnes per year.
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INFO BOX: District Energy Opportunities in Metro Vancouver
District energy systems are centralized facilities that provide heating and cooling to a network of residential and commercial buildings more efficiently and with less emissions than individual building heating and cooling systems. Metro Vancouver is currently building a facility to recover heat from wastewater effluent and supply it to a district energy provider. Other opportunities to supply heat to district energy providers are also being explored, including using steam generated at the Waste-to- Energy Facility or heat recovered from large sewer pipes.
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Waste Management and Adaptation to Climate Change
Waste management facilities in the Metro Vancouver region include recycling depots, organics processors, recycling processors, transfer stations, landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and liquid waste pump stations.
Climate change will impact these facilities and other activities associated with waste management. The waste management system is susceptible to the following climate hazards:
• severe weather;
• sea-level rise, storm surges and floods; and
• heat waves and wildfires.
The region has existing protocols and plans to address some of these hazards, such as managing a large influx of solid waste following a flood. These protocols and plans provide some guidance to help protect the region’s existing waste management facilities from climate change-related events. As climate change impacts escalate additional protocols and plans will be needed to ensure these facilities can keep operating.
Actions to protect key infrastructure include raising dykes, and improving both stormwater management plans and professional practice guidelines. Climate change must be considered during the design and repair to existing waste management infrastructure to avoid creating vulnerabilities that make adaptation more difficult and expensive for future generations.
Across the region, many organizations are considering climate change adaptation and are beginning to coordinate response plans that have us working together now to prepare for a more resilient future. Regional adaptation initiatives will require the cooperation and support of all governments.
A discussion paper on Infrastructure, as part of this series, will include a discussion on how key regional infrastructure, such as liquid waste management facilities, will be adapted to a changing climate.
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Feedback and Engagement Process
Metro Vancouver invites feedback from diverse viewpoints to help shape Climate 2050 and the Clean Air Plan. Metro Vancouver will carefully consider all input. Feedback is welcome by email at [email protected] or [email protected], or by telephone at 604-432- 6200.
To ensure your comments are considered, please provide feedback by September 30, 2020.
Participation Opportunities
Metro Vancouver will provide a variety of engagement opportunities to hear input on this discussion paper. The public, stakeholders, and other governments can participate via the following:
• online public questionnaire;
• open comments to a dedicated email account;
• public webinar; and
• direct feedback to Metro Vancouver staff.
Details about events will be posted on the Clean Air Plan and Climate 2050 websites (see blue box on this page).
To ensure your comments are considered, please provide feedback by September 30, 2020.
How Feedback Will Be Used
With revisions, content from this discussion paper will form the basis of the waste management section of the Clean Air Plan and the Climate 2050 Waste Roadmap, both of which will be available for feedback before they are finalized. (Note that actions identified in the final Clean Air Plan and any of the Climate 2050 Roadmaps that could result in significant changes to existing air emission regulations or new regulations may require an independent public engagement process before being adopted.)
Comments and suggestions will be compiled into a summary report for consideration by the Metro Vancouver Board and will be made publicly available.
Feedback on this discussion paper will also be shared to the Metro Vancouver project teams for the upcoming updates to the solid waste and liquid waste management plans.
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Metro Vancouver staff will treat personal information with confidentiality; please note that comments you submit may be provided to a third party if a freedom of information request is made under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If you have any questions or comments regarding the consultation process, please call 604-432-6200.
Thank you for taking the time to provide your valuable feedback.
For more information, visit www.metrovancouver.org and search “Clean Air Plan” or “Climate 2050,” or call 604-432-6200.
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Glossary
Air contaminants are any substances emitted into the air that do or could a) harm public health (including material physical discomfort) and property, b) damage the environment, including the climate, c) impede normal business operations, or d) impair visual air quality.
Ambient air quality objectives and standards are health-based targets which define the acceptable outdoor concentration of key air contaminants. Metro Vancouver and the federal and provincial governments adopt objectives and standards that become more stringent over time, to drive continuous improvement in air quality.
Ammonia (NH3) is poisonous if inhaled in greater quantities, and is irritating to the eyes, nose and throat in lesser amounts. Ammonia can also react with other substances in the air to form particulate matter.
Best Available Control Technology (BACT) is the technology that results in the lowest emissions from a set of available options that has practical potential at a specific site, has been proven to work at other locations, and is not cost prohibitive. Some emission control technologies can result in increased energy usage or generation of other residuals, which is considered during technology selection.
Biosolids are the treated solids recovered from wastewater. The solids have been treated by microorganisms and heat to eliminate pathogens and reduce odours. The final product is similar to soil and is rich in nutrients and organic matter.
Carbon neutral region is a region that has achieved the deepest greenhouse gas emissions reductions possible across all economic sectors and removes or captures sufficient carbon dioxide to balance any remaining regional greenhouse gas emissions.
Circular economy is an economy where the value of products is retained after their initial use through reuse, repair and remanufacturing. Keeping products functioning at their highest potential reduces embodied emissions and reduces emissions associated with waste management. Transitioning to a circular economy will gradually decouple economic activity from the consumption of finite resources by designing waste out of the system and helping to regenerate natural systems.
Climate change adaptation means anticipating, planning for and responding to the adverse effects of climate change and taking appropriate action to prevent or minimize the damage it can cause, or taking advantage of opportunities that may arise. It has been shown that well-planned, early adaptation action saves money and lives later.
Common air contaminants are air contaminants that can harm public health and reduce residents’ quality of life and life expectancy by causing heart and lung diseases, cancer, asthma, and other impacts. Some air contaminants have odorous characteristics. Common air contaminants include fine and coarse particulate matter, ground-level ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide.
Embodied emissions are the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the construction of goods and products, including the raw materials and the transport of the good or product to where it is sold.
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Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is made up of tiny solid or liquid particles that float in the air and can penetrate deep into the lungs and even into the bloodstream. Fine particulate matter can damage people’s health by aggravating existing lung and heart diseases, increasing the risk of cancer and reducing life expectancy.
Greenhouse gases are air contaminants that trap heat and are the cause of climate change. Greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide as well as short-lived climate forcers such as methane, halocarbons, black carbon and ozone. Limiting or preventing greenhouse gas emissions and removing these gases from the atmosphere is critical to avoiding catastrophic climate change (sometimes referred to as climate change mitigation).
Ground-level ozone (O3) can have harmful impacts on everyone, especially children, seniors, and people with lung and heart conditions. It is primarily formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in the air on hot and sunny days.
Hazard refers to a dangerous phenomenon, substance, human activity, or condition. In this context, hazards are caused or made worse by climate change. Examples include rainstorms, extreme weather, wildfires, storm surges, landslides and floods.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can damage people’s health by aggravating existing lung diseases like asthma and bronchitis and reducing immunity to lung infections. It is formed during high-temperature fuel combustion.
Sulphur oxides (SOX) are a group of gases, which includes sulphur dioxide, that are emitted during the combustion of sulphur-containing fuels. Exposure to high levels of sulphur dioxide can damage people’s health by aggravating asthma and increasing respiratory symptoms. Sulphur oxides can also react with other substances in the air to form particulate matter.
Visual air quality is how clear the air looks to the average observer. Metro Vancouver and its partners measure visual air quality on a scale from “very poor” to “excellent” at five sites in the Lower Fraser Valley.
Vulnerability is the degree to which ecosystems, economies, infrastructure and communities are susceptible to, or unable to cope with, the adverse effects of climate change. Vulnerability varies based on exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity. Geographic location, socio-economic conditions, and other factors can impact susceptibility to harm and adaptive capacity.
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Metro Vancouver is a federation of 21 municipalities, one Electoral Area and one Treaty First Nation that collaboratively plans for and delivers regional-scale services. Its core services are drinking water, wastewater treatment and solid waste management. Metro Vancouver also regulates air quality, plans for urban growth, manages a regional parks system and provides affordable housing. The regional district is governed by a Board of Directors of elected officials from each local authority.
Member jurisdictions of Metro Vancouver include:
• Village of Anmore • Village of Belcarra • Bowen Island Municipality • City of Burnaby • City of Coquitlam • City of Delta • Electoral Area A • City of Langley • Township of Langley • Village of Lions Bay • City of Maple Ridge • City of New Westminster • City of North Vancouver • District of North Vancouver • City of Pitt Meadows • City of Port Coquitlam • City of Port Moody • City of Richmond • City of Surrey • Tsawwassen First Nation • City of Vancouver • District of West Vancouver • City of White Rock
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Climate Action Committee 37396761 Climate Action Committee 5.5
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Paul Kadota, Program Manager, Utility Research and Innovation, Policy Planning and Analysis, Liquid Waste Services Department
Date: June 1, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: 2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects
RECOMMENDATION That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated June 1, 2020, titled “2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects.”
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Annually, the Climate Action Committee is provided with an update on all projects funded under the Sustainability Innovation Funds. This report provides an update on ten projects that were approved for funding from 2016 to 2019 and are in various stages of completion, some with their progress slowed due to COVID-19 related shut-downs of laboratories. Of the ten projects, two are highlighted: • The Smart Sewer Wireless Sensor project has completed with new intellectual property created. This project will evolve to further in-field development work and the possible involvement of additional parties for extended testing. • The Hydrothermal Processing - Biofuel Demonstration Facility project is progressing with a good deal of learning for staff, who are the first in the wastewater industry experiencing the significantly different design process of this disruptive clean technology.
PURPOSE This report provides an update on projects funded under the Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund.
BACKGROUND The Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund was created by the Board in 2004 to provide financial support to Liquid Waste Utility projects that contribute to the region’s sustainability. The GVS&DD Board adopted the Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Policy on June 27, 2014, with further amendments in 2016, to guide the use and management of the Fund. The policy requires that the Climate Action Committee be updated on an annual basis on the deliverables, outcomes and measurable benefits of the projects receiving funding.
This report presents an update on projects that have not yet been reported as complete to the Climate Action Committee. The projects, outlined below, were approved for funding from 2016 to 2019. Projects that were approved for funding in 2020 have not been included in this report, but will be reported on in 2021, as per the policy.
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Climate Action Committee 2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 4
STATUS OF SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION PROJECTS (APPROVAL YEARS: 2016 – 2019)
Approval Amount Project Status Year Approved Smart Sewers: Development of Wireless In-Situ Sensors 2016 $200,000 Complete High Efficiency Aeration Demonstration 2017 $750,000 In Progress Genomics Approach to Anaerobic Digestion Optimization 2017 $460,000 In Progress Microwave-enhanced Advanced Oxidation Process Sludge 2017 $850,000 In Progress Destruction Pilot Capture of wastewater contaminants of concern and 2018 $450,000 In Progress beneficial use of residuals Intelligent Water Systems - Making Use of Sensors and Big 2018 $200,000 In Progress Data Analytics Hydrothermal Processing - Biofuel Demonstration Facility 2018 $8,250,000 In Progress Multiphase Composite Coating (MCC) for Concrete 2019 $620,000 In Progress Sewers Pump Station Optimization 2019 $330,000 In Progress Advanced Resource Recovery from Sludge: Industrial 2019 $2,985,000 In Progress Research Chair Program
Of the projects listed above, updates on eight are provided in the appendix, while two are highlighted below due to their unique circumstances.
SMART SEWERS: DEVELOPMENT OF WIRELESS IN-SITU SENSORS: COMPLETE The overall goal of this project was to design, develop, prototype and evaluate a robust wireless in- situ sensor technology capable of early detection of dissolved gases in wastewater that cause odour and corrosion of the sewage collection system. The project partner is University of British Columbia (UBC) Advanced Thermo-Fluidic Laboratory within the School of Engineering.
Key Outcomes: • Designed and manufactured several sensor prototypes, with its size shrinking and performance improving with each iteration. • Established two different compact sensors, one of which has patentable intellectual property potential. • UBC will continue with further development and refinement of the sensors to achieve the desired level of reliability needed for long term installations and to attract new investors and partners.
The Sustainability Innovation Fund, with additional grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, has supported the development of two wireless smart sewer sensors capable of detecting odour-causing gases in wastewater. The stated goals for the sensors have been achieved in both the laboratory and research hall settings. Additional development and refinement of the sensor is required to achieve greater reliability and robustness of the measurement system. This future work may involve private-sector parties interested in commercializing the sensor based on intellectual property jointly held by Metro Vancouver and UBC. Metro Vancouver may choose to continue
Climate Action Committee 2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 3 of 4
providing in-kind support to refine the sensor for its own use and formulate business strategies to maximize benefit from this technological asset.
HYDROTHERMAL PROCESSING - BIOFUEL DEMONSTRATION FACILITY: IN PROGRESS Hydrothermal Processing (HTP) is an emerging technology that can convert wastewater biomass into a biocrude oil that can be refined into transportation fuels having close to one-ninth the carbon emission intensity. HTP has been bench-tested and proven at the pilot scale; the goal of this project is to assess technology performance, process integration, and develop a techno-economic analysis for an operational scale system. The local project partner, Parkland Fuel Corporation, plans to refine the biocrude into low carbon fuels.
Key Outcomes: • Secured HTP technology rights and completed the preliminary design of the HTP demonstration system. • Retained Owner’s Engineer to provide integration design services, as well as contract and project management. • The system is being designed to break new ground in terms of long duration operations and will be the world’s first operationalized HTP system. The leading edge nature of the technology has staff engaged in new learning activities with support from project partners experienced with similar systems.
With HTP indicating significant benefits over anaerobic digestion (the incumbent technology), this project has garnered wide interest from the wastewater, petroleum, and advanced biofuels industries. Upon the successful completion of the project, the demonstration system can be an attractive option for a small community to purchase and install as their full-scale system.
For Metro Vancouver, a full-scale system will require an additional scale-up step, which could be considered for future implementation.
ALTERNATIVES This is an information report. No alternatives are presented.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The projects summarized in this report had funding approved by the GVS&DD Board from 2016-2019. The disbursals of funds were made in accordance with the applicable Sustainability Innovation Fund Policy that governs the use and management of the Funds.
The table below outlines the funding approved and the amount spent to date for each project. Any unspent funds for completed projects remain in the Sustainability Innovation Fund reserve.
Climate Action Committee 2020 Update on Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 4 of 4
Total Amount of Amount Spent Project Funding (as of Mar 31, Approved 2020) 2016 Approval Year Smart Sewers: Development of Wireless In-Situ Sensors $200,000 $200,000 2017 Approval Year High Efficiency Aeration Demonstration $750,000 $96,013 Genomics Approach to Anaerobic Digestion Optimization $460,000 $237,236 Microwave-enhanced Advanced Oxidation Process Sludge $850,000 $585,000 Destruction Pilot 2018 Approval Year Capture of wastewater contaminants of concern and $450,000 $148,000 beneficial use of residuals Intelligent Water Systems - Making Use of Sensors and Big $200,000 $184,562 Data Analytics Hydrothermal Processing - Biofuel Demonstration Facility $8,250,000 $111,863 2019 Approval Year Multiphase Composite Coating (MCC) for Concrete Sewers $620,000 $72 Pump Station Optimization $420,000 $85,043 Advanced Resource Recovery from Sludge: Industrial $2,985,000 $311,361 Research Chair Program
SUMMARY / CONCLUSION This report has presented an update on ten projects funded under the Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund. The Sustainability Innovation Funds were created by the Board in 2004 to provide financial support to utility or Regional District projects that contribute to the region’s sustainability.
Appendix: Update on Other Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects In-Progress
Climate Action Committee APPENDIX: UPDATE ON OTHER LIQUID WASTE SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION FUND PROJECTS IN PROGRESS
HIGH EFFICIENCY AERATION DEMONSTRATION: IN PROGRESS More than one-half of the total energy demand at a wastewater treatment facility can be for aerating secondary treatment processes. The goal of this project is to assess at pilot scale, a new device called the Perlemax Fluidic Oscillator which has shown its ability to improve energy efficiency by 25% in small tanks. For this, the project partners are the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water), where the testing will be conducted, and the Water Research Foundation (WRF).
Key Outcomes: • Perlemax has delivered a preliminary design of their system for testing at DC Water. • WRF has assembled an expert independent evaluation panel.
The team is completing its design ahead of equipment purchase, installation, and tests that are scheduled to start in late 2020 or early 2021.
GENOMICS APPROACH TO ANAEROBIC DIGESTION OPTIMIZATION: IN PROGRESS The goal of this project is to identify a means to increase biomethane generation from existing anaerobic digestion processes used at Metro Vancouver wastewater treatment plants. There are two academic teams on this project: i) environmental genomic experts at UBC’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and ii) anaerobic digestion experts from UBC’s School of Engineering, within the Bioreactor Technology Group.
Key Outcomes: • Secured four grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council totaling over $700,000. • Genomic sequencing of the microbiome within existing digesters indicate existence of conditions that limit methane generation. • Insights on alleviating the limiting conditions are informing the design of a compact add-on reactor that could boost renewable natural gas production from existing digesters.
The next steps will involve preliminary tests on various prototype designs of the compact reactor.
MICROWAVE-ENHANCED ADVANCED OXIDATION PROCESS SLUDGE DESTRUCTION PILOT: IN PROGRESS Anaerobic digestion provides a means to generate biomethane through the microbial reduction of wastewater sludge by more than one-half its original volume. On average, the reduction process takes 20 to 30 days and uses very large concrete tanks. The goal of this project is to evaluate a technology that could shorten processing times or reduce the size and cost of new concrete tanks. The project partner is the UBC Department of Civil Engineering.
Key Outcomes: • Designed, built, and installed a continuous flow pilot unit at the Annacis Research Centre.
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Climate Action Committee Appendix: Update on Other Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects In-Progress
• Phase 1 testing is now underway to determine potential biomethane generation and energy consumption to determine energy balance and inform a life cycle analysis.
Phase 2 operational testing will be considered if Phase 1 results are deemed a success.
CAPTURE OF WASTEWATER CONTAMINANTS OF CONCERN AND BENEFICIAL USE OF RESIDUALS: IN PROGRESS UBC’s Civil Engineering Department has been charring wastewater sludge into activated carbon which was then used to capture contaminants of emerging concern in storm water. The purpose of this project is to assess the suitability of this process for capturing contaminants in municipal wastewater effluent.
Key Outcome: • Phase 1 lab testing and analysis is progressing, along with a business case evaluation anticipated for completion towards the end of 2020.
Phase 2 field testing will proceed subject to success of Phase 1 work.
INTELLIGENT WATER SYSTEMS - MAKING USE OF SENSORS AND BIG DATA ANALYTICS: IN PROGRESS Metro Vancouver and its municipal members monitor and collect large amounts of data and as less expensive sensors are deployed, the volume of data is expected to increase exponentially. The purpose of this project is to identify and evaluate innovative tools and techniques to help regional and municipal liquid waste utilities create information from the wave of “Big Data” that is transforming the industry. The project partner is the Water Research Foundation.
Key Outcomes: • The partnership has issued a Request for Proposals to explore a wide range of Big Data techniques including, the use of Artificial Intelligence for automated quality assurance and quality control, procedures to predict system malfunctions, and the adaptation of operational rules or scheduled maintenance. Other considerations include real time rainfall and flow data processing, integration of land use and population data, and environmental monitoring data.
Next steps involve working with the selected proponent and using Metro Vancouver as a case study to identify areas of Big Data opportunities.
MULTIPHASE COMPOSITE COATING (MCC) FOR CONCRETE SEWERS: IN PROGRESS The goal of this project is to field test and validate the performance of a new coating material developed by UBC, which has the potential to protect both new and existing concrete sewer pipes from biological corrosion, which can dramatically reduce the service life of sewer networks. The project partners are UBC’s Department of Civil Engineering, Ocean Pipe, and Metro Testing & Engineering.
Key Outcome: • Grant application to the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council to expand the scope of the project was unsuccessful.
Climate Action Committee Appendix: Update on Other Liquid Waste Sustainability Innovation Fund Projects In-Progress
Given the above outcome, activities will initiate based on the original scope definition. This involves laboratory testing and a small scale rehabilitation project in a heavily corroded concrete sewer chamber in Delta, where the field application process and material properties will be evaluated.
PUMP STATION OPTIMIZATION: IN PROGRESS The goal of this project is to investigate opportunities to improve wet weather system performance and save energy by adjusting operating strategies at sanitary pump stations. Metro Vancouver’s 33 pump stations consume electricity valued at approximately $2.4 million per year. The partnership with the UBC Sauder School of Business leverages Masters of Business Analytics students through the University’s Centre for Operations Excellence program to perform advanced data processing and analysis in optimizing system operations.
Key Outcomes: • Metro Vancouver’s Lynn Pump Station in the North Vancouver was selected as the first test case. • The Team used machine-learning algorithms to develop a computer model of the pump station and new operational controls were hypothesized and tested. • Preliminary indications are that energy usage at the Lynn Pump Station can be reduced by up to 25% with some minor control strategy modifications.
The control strategy will be further developed and refined, and then implemented as a trial when ready.
ADVANCED RESOURCE RECOVERY FROM SLUDGE: IN PROGRESS The three main goals of this 5-year project are: i) develop a prototype and pilot-scale bioreactor that can augment biomethane production, ii) assess capacity of hydrothermal processing to destroy a range of micropollutants to yield higher quality treatment plant effluent, and iii) explore the recovery of low-carbon nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Advancing the recovery of resources from wastewater to produce value-added output for use by other industries can help build a stronger circular economy. The project partners are UBC School of Engineering and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.
Key Outcomes: • Leveraging Metro Vancouver funding, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council awarded UBC School of Engineering, a $1.3 Million Industrial Research Chair grant. • Research work initiated in January 2020.
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Climate Action Committee 5.6
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Laurie Bates-Frymel, Senior Planner Regional Planning and Housing Services Department
Date: May 20, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report
RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated May 20, 2020, titled “Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report”.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In 2018, the MVRD Board adopted the Ecological Health Framework to highlight Metro Vancouver's role in protecting and enhancing ecological health as it relates to its services and functions, including supporting regional efforts. This report introduces the Framework’s inaugural progress report, which describes over 100 corporate initiatives that advanced ecological health across the region in 2019. Metro Vancouver undertook projects to improve environmental performance in our services and functions, collected and analyzed regional environmental data to inform decision making, designed new facilities to reduce impacts and support ecosystem function, advanced habitat conservation for species and ecosystems, and enhanced green spaces within communities. This report will be posted on metrovancouver.org and several initiatives will be profiled.
PURPOSE To provide the Climate Action Committee and MVRD Board with information about 2019 corporate initiatives that enhance ecological health and support Metro Vancouver’s Ecological Health Framework.
BACKGROUND In October 2018, the MVRD Board adopted the Ecological Health Framework, which encapsulates Metro Vancouver's collective efforts around ecological health and provides guiding principles, goals, and strategies to help achieve the vision of a “beautiful, healthy, and resilient environment for current and future generations”. The concept of ecological health captures the connection among healthy functioning ecosystems, the valuable services they provide (commonly referred to as ‘ecosystem services’) and human well-being. The Ecological Health Framework identifies Metro Vancouver's role in protecting and enhancing ecological health as it relates to its services and functions; provides a foundation for integrating ecological health into Metro Vancouver's corporate decision making; identifies how Metro Vancouver will report on ecological health-related initiatives across the organization; and supports regional efforts to protect and enhance ecological health.
The Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report is a second quarter item on the Climate Action Committee 2020 Work Plan.
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Climate Action Committee Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 3
2019 PROGRESS REPORT Progress reports are intended to demonstrate how the strategies in Metro Vancouver’s Ecological Health Framework are being implemented throughout the organization. Attachment 1 is the inaugural progress report, which describes over 100 corporate initiatives that advanced ecological health in 2019. It describes how Metro Vancouver took measures to improve environmental performance in our services and functions, collected and analyzed regional environmental data to inform decision making, and designed new facilities with a vision to reduce impacts and enhance ecosystem function. Several initiatives advanced habitat conservation for species and ecosystems, while others enhanced green spaces within communities for the benefit of both wildlife and people.
The report’s executive summary highlights a few key initiatives from 2019: • The design of the New Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant explores opportunities to minimize water quality impacts, use green infrastructure, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and reduce air emissions, among other features that enhance ecological health, as presented to the Climate Action Committee in May 2020. • Over 80 hectares of land were purchased as part of the implementation of Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Strategy and supplementary funding was approved to acquire and protect additional natural areas. • Regional greenhouse gas emission reduction targets were updated in Climate 2050 and the work was initiated on the Nature and Ecosystems Roadmap discussion paper, which was presented to the Climate Action Committee in May 2020. • Regional tree canopy cover, imperviousness, sensitive ecosystem loss, and carbon storage were assessed to support the review of the environmental and climate-related land use policies in Metro 2040.
NEXT STEPS The Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report will be posted on metrovancouver.org and several initiatives will be profiled on the Ecological Health Framework webpage. Future progress reports will reflect completion of some of the projects listed in the progress report, as well as new work.
ALTERNATIVES This is an information report. No alternatives are presented.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS All of the initiatives and projects listed in the Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report were undertaken with funding allocated in the 2019 Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD), Greater Vancouver Sewerage & Drainage District (GVS&DD), Greater Vancouver Water District (GVWD), and the Metro Vancouver Housing Corporation (MVHC) budgets. Work to compile the 2019 progress report has been completed within funding allocated in the 2020 Regional Planning budget.
CONCLUSION Metro Vancouver is committed to ecological health. In 2019, the organization advanced over 100 initiatives that support ecological health by improving environmental performance in its services and functions, collecting and analyzing regional environmental data to inform decision making, designing
Climate Action Committee Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 3 of 3 new facilities with a vision to reduce impacts and enhance ecosystem function, and fostering public education about the value of natural areas. Progress was also made on conserving habitat for species and ecosystems, increasing green spaces within communities, and enhancing the ecosystem services, such as clean water, clean air, and carbon storage, that are vital for both human and ecological health.
Attachment Ecological Health Framework 2019 Progress Report (39177980)
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Climate Action Committee ATTACHMENT
Climate Action Committee Contents
CONTENTS ______2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ______4
INTRODUCTION ______5
CORPORATE INITIATIVES THAT ADVANCE ECOLOGICAL HEALTH ______6
GOAL 1: Build ecological resilience and minimize impacts ______6 Strategy 1.1 Enhance Metro Vancouver’s environmental performance ______6 Strategy 1.2 Promote knowledge and consideration of cumulative effects in collaboration with other agencies ______10 Strategy 1.3 Increase use of natural and built green infrastructure ______16 Strategy 1.4 Manage invasive species ______18 Strategy 1.5 Support natural and urban ecosystems to adapt to climate change ______20
GOAL 2: Protect natural areas and conserve ecosystem services ______22 Strategy 2.1 Provide data and analysis to inform planning ______22 Strategy 2.2 Incorporate ecosystem services into decision making ______26 Strategy 2.3 Enhance ecosystem connectivity ______28 Strategy 2.4 Conserve habitat for species and ecosystems ______30
GOAL 3: Nurture nature within communities ______33 Strategy 3.1 Promote sustainable green spaces within communities ______33 Strategy 3.2 Build a broad base of understanding and support for ecological health ______36
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Climate Action Committee
Capilano River Regional Park
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Climate Action Committee EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Metro Vancouver’s 2019 Progress Report on the Ecological Health Framework identifies corporate initiatives that advance ecological health and help to achieve the Framework’s vision of a “beautiful, healthy, and resilient environment for current and future generations”. This inaugural report demonstrates how the strategies in the Framework are being implemented through initiatives started or completed in 2019. The report profiles over 100 corporate initiatives that advance ecological health across the region. For example, Metro Vancouver has been working to enhance natural systems in the design of new facilities, protecting ecologically important lands, and setting ambitious goals for climate action and ecosystem protection. A few key highlights from 2019 include:
• New Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Design In collaboration with various stakeholders, design concepts for the new plant and surrounding area were developed that aim to: minimize water quality impacts on the estuary and the Salish Sea; use green infrastructure for rainwater capture; enhance habitat for fish and wildlife, reduce air contaminant and greenhouse gas emissions; help coastal ecosystems adapt to climate change and increase resilience; and assist visitors to connect with nature.
• Implementation of Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Strategy Metro Vancouver acquired over 80 hectares of land to expand the North Alouette Regional Greenway, Codd Wetland Ecological Conservancy Area, and Kanaka Creek and Minnekhada Regional Parks. The Metro Vancouver Board also approved an increase in annual funding through the tax requisition to purchase additional natural areas for regional parks and to support climate mitigation and adaptation in the region.
• Climate 2050 The Metro Vancouver Board adopted a revised target to pursue a carbon neutral region by 2050 and an interim target of 45% reduction by 2030 as part of the Climate 2050 Strategic Framework. Staff continued to work with members, aligned organizations and the public to develop a discussion paper that will eventually inform a Climate 2050 Roadmap for Nature and Ecosystems across this region.
• Metro 2040 Update The Metro Vancouver Board initiated a comprehensive review of Metro Vancouver 2040: Shaping our Future (Metro 2040), the regional growth strategy, including analysis of regional sensitive ecosystem loss, tree canopy cover, and carbon storage data, as well as an assessment of the federation’s environmental and climate-related land use policies.
Metro Vancouver continues to advance ecological health through a range of initiatives. Visit metrovancouver.org for updates on these and other initiatives. Future Ecological Health Framework progress reports will reflect completion of some of the projects listed here, as well as new work.
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Climate Action Committee
INTRODUCTION We are inextricably linked to the health of our environment. The concept of ecological health captures the connection among healthy functioning ecosystems, the valuable services they provide, and human well-being. Maintaining and enhancing the integrity of ecosystems and other natural features is essential for ensuring that residents of the region continue to benefit from the ecosystem services that contribute to our collective well-being and prosperity.
The Ecological Health Framework encapsulates Metro Vancouver's collective efforts around ecological health and provides guiding principles, goals, and strategies to help achieve the vision of a “beautiful, healthy, and resilient environment for current and future generations”. Adopted by the Metro Vancouver Board in October 2018, the Framework:
• identifies Metro Vancouver's role in protecting and enhancing ecological health as it relates to its services and functions; • provides a foundation for integrating ecological health into Metro Vancouver's corporate decision making; • identifies how Metro Vancouver will report on ecological health-related initiatives across the organization; and • supports regional efforts to protect and enhance ecological health.
Progress reports will highlight corporate initiatives that contribute to implementing the strategies in the Framework. This inaugural annual report, features projects and initiatives started or completed in 2019, and provides updates on key initiatives from previous years. The description for each initiative highlights connections to ecological health. The initiatives are presented in alignment with the goals and strategies in the Framework, identifying the lead Metro Vancouver department or division.
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Climate Action Committee CORPORATE INITIATIVES THAT ADVANCE ECOLOGICAL HEALTH As a public entity, Metro Vancouver has a variety of responsibilities related to the ecological health of our region, from protecting lands through its regional parks and watersheds functions to minimizing impacts on the environment through its utility operations and regulatory roles. The projects described in this report illustrate Metro Vancouver’s various roles in implementing the Framework – from corporate leadership, to participation and collaboration, to supporting other agency initiatives.
GOAL 1: Build ecological resilience and minimize impacts
Strategy 1.1 Enhance Metro Vancouver’s environmental performance
• Manage regional utilities to minimize impacts associated with discharges to the environment, monitor performance to ensure compliance as a minimum, and strive for continuous improvement.
New Environmental Management Systems Waste-to-Energy Facility Air Quality Monitoring (Liquid Waste Services, Water Services) (Solid Waste Services) Metro Vancouver’s Water and Liquid Waste In 2019, Metro Vancouver began planning for the Services continued to develop Environmental installation of an air quality monitoring station in Management Systems following the ISO the northwest corner of the Waste-to-Energy 14001:2015 standard for each utility. In 2019, Facility site. Expected to be installed in 2020, this staff developed comprehensive environmental station will continuously measure hydrogen risk and compliance registries for the utilities’ chloride, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. operational interactions with the environment. Monitoring data is expected to be collected for a This formed the basis for evaluating minimum of two years, and will be used to environmental risk and prioritizing areas for compare dispersion modelling results and continuous improvement. It also helped identify applicable ambient air quality objectives. Data where additional environmental objectives and and results of the monitoring program will be performance monitoring in facility operations reported to the BC Ministry of Environment and may be required. Climate Change Strategy at minimum of once per year during the monitoring period.
• Explore opportunities to consider ecosystem services in the design and construction of new facilities.
New Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant habitat for millions of migrating Pacific salmon Design (Liquid Waste Services) and birds, and at-risk plants and wildlife. The new Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Recognizing that the new plant is part of a much (IIWWTP) presents a once-in-a-lifetime larger system, the project team is using a opportunity to protect and enhance the regenerative design process that considers how ecological health of the Fraser River estuary. The the project can make a net positive contribution new plant is set within Iona Beach Regional Park to the surrounding ecosystems, communities and at the mouth of the Fraser River. Iona Island and businesses. The team is engaging with the public the surrounding area is comprised of a rich and First Nations, working closely with the diversity of ecosystems and supports crucial Musqueam Indian Band due to the proximity of
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Climate Action Committee the site to their primary reserve lands and their solids and biological oxygen demand. In addition, strong connections to Iona Island. In 2019, the the plant will export biogas to the natural gas grid project team developed design concepts for the and produce reclaimed water for internal and new facility and surrounding area, and elements external use. Finally, the whole foreshore area of of these concepts will be integrated into an the plant will be restored naturally to enhance the indicative design for the new plant with the intent Fraser River ecosystem. to improve Iona Island as a whole. Some of the proposed opportunities include: North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant • minimizing water quality impacts on the (Liquid Waste Services) estuary and the Salish Sea through improved In 2019, the Greater Vancouver Sewerage and wastewater treatment; Drainage District (GVS&DD) Board approved the • improving air quality and reducing odour addition of tertiary treatment to the new North emissions, light and noise pollution, overall Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant. As a result, plant footprint and plant visibility for its cleaner effluent will be discharged into the neighbours; marine environment. The new plant will feature a • reducing greenhouse gas emissions through green roof, a public plaza with stormwater energy performance, reduction of embodied retention and reclaimed water irrigation, and carbon, low carbon transport, and by plantings to create biodiversity and a sustainable generating renewable, low carbon energy for ecosystem on site. the community from wastewater; • using and managing rainwater on-site with Environmental Assessments and Management features such as green roofs, bioswales, and Plan Templates (Water Services) wetlands; Water Services staff developed templates in 2019 • creating, enhancing and protecting wildlife to guide the development of Environmental and fish habitat on-site, in the park, and Assessments (EA) and Environmental adjacent marine and foreshore areas; Management Plans (EMP) during the design • helping coastal ecosystems, such as coastal phases of Metro Vancouver capital works projects sand ecosystems, adapt to a changing across the region. These templates will help to climate; standardize project EAs and EMPs, as well as • protecting the park and the plant from assist Metro Vancouver Project Managers in climate impacts with features that also evaluating consultant submissions and assessing provide ecological benefits; overall performance objectives post- • adding more trails, boardwalks and viewing construction. platforms to enhance visitor experience and connection to nature; and New Coquitlam Transfer Station (Solid Waste Services) • being a catalyst for a wider-range of ecological enhancements in the Fraser River Construction of additional infrastructure to estuary. minimize landfill gas fugitive emissions at the new Coquitlam Transfer Station site was initiated in
2019 and is expected to be completed in 2020 Northwest Langley Wastewater Treatment Plant with commissioning of the new infrastructure to Design (Liquid Waste Services) Northwest Langley Wastewater Treatment Plant the existing landfill gas and collection (NLWWTP) is currently in the detailed design system. The new infrastructure includes: 7 new stage. Notable features include biological nutrient vertical gas extraction wells, 8 condensate pump removal process to reduce the ammonia stations, 12 passive vents, a horizontal collection discharged into the Fraser River and tertiary system beneath the main transfer building, treatment (disk filters) to reduce total suspended associated header and lateral pipes, isolation valves and cleanout, and air supply line to the
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Climate Action Committee vertical gas extraction wells for condensate handle combined leachate and sanitary flow. It pumps, if required. will also include a second pump, which will provide redundancy in the system. Hence, the Design was also initiated in 2019 for the west upgrade will reduce the likelihood of a pump leachate station upgrade. The upgrade will spill. Design for the upgrade is expected to be increase the capacity of the pump station to completed by mid-2020.
• Other projects that enhance Metro Vancouver’s environmental performance
Climate 2050 (Air Quality & Climate Change) RGLOS, and undertook a review of scientific In 2019, the Metro Vancouver Board adopted a knowledge related to ozone formation, and revised Climate 2050 Strategic Framework with a policies that have been implemented in other target to pursue a carbon neutral region by 2050 jurisdictions to reduce ozone formation. The and an interim target of 45% reduction by 2030. update will continue in 2020. The Climate 2050 vision includes ensuring our ecosystems, infrastructure, and communities are Ambient Air Quality Objectives (Air Quality & resilient to the impacts of climate change. Staff Climate Change) completed three Climate 2050 Discussion Papers Metro Vancouver updated its ambient air quality to support engagement on the development of objectives for nitrogen dioxide, ground-level the Roadmaps for Buildings, Industry, and ozone and carbon monoxide in 2019. These more Transportation. stringent objectives will help drive reductions in ambient concentrations of these air Clean Air Plan (Air Quality & Climate Change) contaminants, reducing impacts on ecological and In 2019, Metro Vancouver Air Quality & Climate human health. Change staff initiated a process to refresh the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Air Quality Permitting and Regulation Management Plan. The new Clean Air Plan will Enforcement (Environmental Regulation & include accelerated actions to reduce emissions Enforcement) of air contaminants, including greenhouse gases, In 2019, Metro Vancouver issued 40 air quality which will reduce the impact of air contaminants permits and approvals. Most of these were short- on ecological health. The Clean Air Plan is being term open burning approvals. As of January 3, developed with Climate 2050. In 2019, staff 2020 there were 154 active air quality developed a Clean Air Plan Backgrounder, which authorizations: 148 permits and 6 approvals. describes the scope of the Clean Air Plan. There are currently 888 companies registered Engagement was initiated in late 2019. under an air quality emission regulation, not including the Non-Road Diesel Emission Regional Ground-Level Ozone Strategy Update Regulation. In 2019, 31 older non-road diesel (Air Quality & Climate Change) engines were retired and therefore ceased The Regional Ground-Level Ozone Strategy emitting diesel particulate matter in the region. (RGLOS) was produced jointly in 2014 by Metro Also in 2019, 17 Notices of Bylaw Violation and 3 Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Municipal Tickets were issued for offences under BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change the Air Quality Management Bylaw and the Non- Strategy, Environment and Climate Change Road Diesel Emission Regulation. There was also Canada, and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. one successful prosecution for air pollution in The strategy provides a foundation for regional 2019 with an assessed fine of $300,000. policies to control ozone precursors in the Canadian Lower Fraser Valley. In 2019, Metro Vancouver and partners began work to update
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Climate Action Committee Liquid Waste Discharge Permitting and Bylaw • In 2019, Metro Vancouver began gathering Enforcement (Environmental Regulation & information and completed initial public Enforcement) outreach in order to complete the update of In 2019, an average of 227 Waste Discharge the Campbell Valley Regional Park Permits for industrial, contaminated sites and Management Plan in 2020. construction excavation sites were in effect at any given time. These permits, issued under GVS&DD Natural Resource Management Framework Sewer Use Bylaw No. 299, specify terms and Update (Regional Parks) conditions for discharge to the GVS&DD and Adopted by the Metro Vancouver Board in 2019, municipal sanitary sewer systems. There were the update to the Natural Resource Management 126 fermentation operations, 18 acute care Framework contains principles, goals and hospitals and approximately 10,000 food sector strategies that provide strategic direction for establishments regulated under sector-specific managing natural resources within the regional bylaws in 2019. Several hundred violation notices parks system. The framework ensures system- were issued in 2019 to regulated wide consistency in resource management efforts dischargers. Approximately 50 compliance plans and resource allocations that reflects established to address violations were successfully completed priorities. in 2019. Regional Greenways Plan Update (Regional Planning and Management of Regional Parks Parks) (Regional Parks) The update to the Regional Greenways Plan was In 2019, Metro Vancouver continued to develop initiated in 2019. The plan will describe an plans and policies to ensure park operation and updated vision for the region’s network of management protects ecological values. This regional recreational greenways as well as actions work focused on developing best management that will guide implementation. practices for environmentally-sensitive construction, managing wildlife in buildings, and Development and Maintenance of Park Facilities pest management. Regional Parks also began (Regional Parks) development of a policy to guide decision-making Work is ongoing to provide park access and around interface issues between Regional Parks facilities for visitors while ensuring ecological and adjacent land uses. values are protected. For 2019, in addition to repairs and replacements of park trail Regional Park Management Plan Development infrastructure and facilities, this included: (Regional Parks) • Creation of the Aldergrove Nature Discovery Metro Vancouver develops, implements and Loop Trail and Wetland (Aldergrove Regional updates management plans for each park in the Park); Regional Park system. • Replacement of a septic tank (Lynn • Completed in 2019, the Widgeon Marsh Headwaters Regional Park); Regional Park Management Plan states the • Installation of hundreds of meters of fencing program, services, development, and to keep dogs out of sensitive natural areas conservation priorities for Widgeon Marsh (Pacific Spirit Regional Park); Regional Park; expressing the long term vision • Construction of the 1.3 km Sheep Paddocks to guide the park over a 20-year horizon. Trail including habitat restoration and bank stabilization (Colony Farm Regional Park); and • Installation of over 900 m of fencing to protect rare and sensitive coastal sand ecosystems (Boundary Bay Regional Park).
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Climate Action Committee Parks Asset Management Policy (Regional Parks) Strategy Development to Support Coexisting Regional Parks established an asset management with Wildlife (Regional Parks) policy in 2019 that includes natural assets and Staff are working to prevent conflict and manage recognizes the services they provide. As tools and human-wildlife interactions. Priorities in 2019 methodologies for quantitatively assessing included development of park specific bear- natural assets evolve, natural assets in Regional human conflict prevention strategies for Lynn Parks will be inventoried and assessed in order to Headwaters, Belcarra, Minnekhada and Kanaka ensure they can be managed in accordance with Creek Regional Parks. the principles set out in the policy.
Black bear in Minnekhada Regional Park
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 1.2 Promote knowledge and consideration of cumulative effects in collaboration with other agencies
• Participate in provincially- and federally-led environmental assessments and reviews of major projects in the region.
Environmental Assessment Reviews (Regional • Robert’s Bank Terminal 2 Planning & Housing Services) • George Massey Tunnel Replacement In 2019, Metro Vancouver staff assisted provincial • Delta Grinding Facility and federal regulatory authorities with local data • Trans Mountain Expansion Project and expertise during the environmental assessment review processes for the following Staff reviewed and provided comment on proposed major projects: potential impacts to air quality, regional water • Centerm Expansion and sewer infrastructure, regional parks and • Pattullo Bridge Replacement other areas within Metro Vancouver’s • WesPac Tilbury Marine Jetty jurisdictional mandates.
• Where appropriate, collect, manage, analyze, and update data that can be used to support cumulative effects assessment.
Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory (Regional Land Cover Classification (Regional Planning & Planning & Housing Services) Housing Services) The Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory (SEI) was In 2017, staff worked with UBC’s Landscape originally completed in 2013 in response to the Ecology Lab and Integrated Remote Sensing need for up-to-date, standardized information for Studio to use multispectral satellite imagery and the region to facilitate conservation of important LiDAR (where available) and map land cover ecological areas through informed land use and classes such as coniferous tree, deciduous tree, conservation planning. In 2018, the first 5-year SEI grass/herb, buildings, paved, and water. In 2019, update was completed to assess changes to the this data set was made available via Metro mapped ecosystems and quantify the amount, Vancouver’s Open Data Catalogue to support the rate and type of ecosystem loss. In 2019, staff use of environment data in decision-making. completed sub-regional profiles and an assessment of ecosystem loss at the regional, Carbon Storage (Regional Planning & Housing regional core (primarily developed areas), and Services) subregional levels. The SEI datasets were made Using the Metro Vancouver Land Cover available for download in 2019 on Metro Classification, the Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory Vancouver’s Open Data Catalogue and the data and other available mapping datasets, a regional (including the 2009-2014 losses) can be viewed on carbon storage dataset was developed to provide the SEI mapping tool. Updates to the Sensitive spatial estimates of carbon stored in biomass (e.g. Ecosystem Inventory are planned every six years trees, shrubs) and soil that can be used to support and the next update year will be 2020, with the incorporation of ecosystem services into completion likely in 2022. decision-making. The project created several outputs including a technical report and a parcel- based dataset that can easily be used by planners to explore the potential carbon implications of projects within a given area (e.g. how much
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Climate Action Committee carbon could potentially be released by https://pollutiontracker.org/. Samples were developing an area, how much carbon could be collected again in 2019. retained by protecting an area, or additional carbon storage for restoration of an area). Ambient Environmental Monitoring in Regional Updates to the carbon storage dataset are Water Bodies (Liquid Waste Services) planned every 6 years (next update year will be Metro Vancouver conducts environmental 2020, with completion likely in 2022), and are tied monitoring programs in the Fraser River, Burrard into the update process for other regional Inlet, Strait of Georgia and Boundary Bay. datasets such as the Land Cover Classification and Monitoring Programs are cyclical with water Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory. monitoring conducted annually, and sediment and biota every 2 to 5 years depending on water Regional Discharge Cumulative Effects body. Metro Vancouver is in the process of Monitoring (Liquid Waste Services) amalgamating its wastewater treatment plant To understand cumulative effects of regional and other receiving environment monitoring discharges Metro Vancouver participated in and programs to develop a more holistic provided environmental monitoring data to the understanding of the health of regional water multi-agency initiatives related to the protection bodies in the context of discharges from its liquid of the Southern Resident Killer Whales and their waste management infrastructure. In 2019, the Prey, the Review and Development of Burrard following monitoring program components were Inlet Water Quality Objectives, Nooksack River carried out. Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group, • Water quality in the vicinity of the Annacis and Environmental Transmission of Norovirus Island Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall into Oysters working group. In addition, Metro and background (ambient) Fraser River water Vancouver is working on a collaborative project quality. with UBC under a Natural Sciences and • Former Burrard Inlet Ambient Monitoring Engineering Research Council of Canada research Program and Lions Gate Wastewater grant to understand the transport and effects of Treatment Plant Receiving Environment contaminants in the Strait of Georgia as they Monitoring Programs have been relate to the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment amalgamated into a single Metro Vancouver Plant. Burrard Inlet Environmental Monitoring Program. In 2019, water and sediment quality Shoreline Discharges Baseline Levels in Outflow were monitored. Areas (Liquid Waste Services) • Water and sediment quality in the vicinity of Metro Vancouver Liquid Waste Services collects Iona Island WWTP outfall and background sediment and mussel samples from selected near (ambient) Strait of Georgia water quality shore sites in Burrard Inlet and on Sturgeon Banks were monitored. for analyses of substances of interest. The results • Boundary Bay monitoring was conducted in provide information about background partnership with the City of Surrey, and environmental quality and are used to track included water quality monitoring of the changes over time. The work is done in Boundary Bay tributaries and marine water. collaboration with the Vancouver Aquarium Ocean Wise as part of the Pollution Tracker Results and summaries of these monitoring Program, which documents the levels and trends programs can be found in the GVS&DD of hundreds of substances in mussels and Environmental Management and Quality Control nearshore ocean sediments in coastal British Annual Report. Columbia. Program details, first cycle results and interactive map can be viewed at
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Climate Action Committee Ambient Air Quality and Climate Stations (Air emissions inventory supports cumulative effects Quality & Climate Change) assessments, as it is used to inform emissions Metro Vancouver operates the Lower Fraser assessments and air quality modelling in Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network which environmental assessments and air permit collects air quality and meteorological data. The reviews. data collected is used to provide air quality information to the public in real time (on Climate-related Monitoring Program (Water Airmap.ca), and used to issue air advisories and Services, Air Quality & Climate Change) other forms of health-based warnings when air Metro Vancouver participates in the provincial quality deteriorates to unsafe levels. Climate-Related Monitoring Program, the intent of which is to share data across organizations, Emissions Inventory and Backcast/Forecast (Air maintain consistent meta-data, and improve Quality & Climate Change) climate change analysis. Watershed Metro Vancouver develops geographic based Environmental Management provides data on emissions inventories for the Lower Fraser Valley Orchid Lake snow course and Coquitlam fire (i.e., Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley weather. A major benefit is an exchange of Regional District) every five years. The most information on the field level concerning station recent emissions inventory was completed for operations and maintenance for improved data 2015 and the next one is scheduled for 2020. The collection.
• Support research and data collection on emerging substances of concern.
Ultrafine Particulate Matter Monitoring (Air Research on Substances of Emerging Quality & Climate Change) Environmental Concern (Liquid Waste Services) Metro Vancouver operates continuous ultrafine In 2019, special studies were conducted in the particulate monitoring at a near-road air quality Vancouver Sewerage Area to understand the monitoring station in Vancouver. The near-road presence of substances of emerging monitoring station is part of the Lower Fraser environmental concern and potential Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network that contributing sources in the collection system, and continuously collects air quality data. at the Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant to evaluate treatment efficiency of the existing Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from plant, and to inform its upgrade to a higher level Cannabis Production Operations (Air Quality & of treatment. Monitored substances of emerging Climate Change) environmental concern included selected trace To better understand the potential range of organics such as flame retardants, and emissions from cannabis production operations, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Metro Vancouver assessed projected emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from As a part of an effort to increase the knowledge licensed facilities in the region. Additional VOC and understanding of substances of emerging emissions from these facilities could add to the environmental concern, in 2019, Metro region’s total VOC emissions, and would create Vancouver Chemistry Laboratory initiated its own the potential for additional formation of ground- analysis of a limited number of these substances. level ozone. Ground-level ozone has the potential The analyses are done on the newly acquired to damage plants and vegetation, and hence is Liquid Chromatograph – Mass Spectrometer. At relevant to ecological health. present, the analyses are conducted following Standard Methods of Analysis in Water and Wastewater which currently include thirteen
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Climate Action Committee pharmaceutical and personal care products. The Environmental Risk Assessments (Water equipment provides Metro Vancouver with an Services) ability to perform this testing and analyses in- Water Services is conducting Environmental Risk house, increase the number and frequency of Assessments of several urban reservoirs to tests performed, measure daily and seasonal evaluate risk associated with releases of drinking variations in their concentration in wastewater water to the surrounding environment via and work toward better understanding of operational leakage and unplanned overflows. An environmental impact of micro-pollutants. Environmental Risk Assessment Plan was developed for each reservoir site in which the Microplastics (Solid Waste Services, Water receiving environments were characterized and a Services, Liquid Waste Services, External risk rating was applied to each site. These Relations) assessments will be used to inform decisions on The National Zero Waste Council, of which Metro upgrades to reservoir infrastructure, monitoring Vancouver is a founding member, published efforts, and emergency response procedures. Regulatory Approaches for Priority Plastic Wastes, and worked on a Federation of Canadian Acid Rock Drainage (Water Services) Municipalities resolution to convene a national In 2019, Watershed Environmental Management summit to harmonize packaging Extended staff evaluated the potential for metal leaching Producer Responsibility programs in all provinces. and acid rock drainage of borrow source materials The document outlines recommended in Seymour Watershed. Three sites were assessed requirements for manufacturers of textiles, tires, for potential development of gravel and rock to wipes, and other sources of microplastics to be used for construction and maintenance of contribute to research and development towards Watershed trails, roads, and slope stability. No mitigation and prevention measures. importation of materials sourced outside Watershed lands is permitted; it is critical to Water Services began a study of potential identify potential sources of clean earth materials presence, distribution, and dispersal of micro- within these areas. Results will be used in decision plastics in Orchid Lake, which discharges into making with respect to development of gravel Seymour River and Reservoir. Orchid Lake, as a and rock to help mitigate potential adverse relatively undisturbed alpine lake, may be impacts to aquatic environments from metal considered a ‘control’ for scientific research. Lake leaching and acid rock drainage. Ongoing testing sediment core samples were taken and analyzed and monitoring will be conducted as required. for microplastics to assess potential atmospheric deposition in areas not directly impacted by Microcystins Monitoring (Water Services) human activities. Further lake cores will be taken Microcystins are a class of toxins produced by in 2020 to assess fire history as well as micro- certain freshwater blue-green algae that are toxic plastics. to humans and animals if consumed. Watershed Environmental Management staff collect water Liquid Waste Services is working with Ocean samples from Capilano, Seymour, and Coquitlam Wise© to develop reliable protocols to extract Reservoirs annually as part of the Reservoir and analyze microplastics from wastewater and Limnology Program to monitor microcystin in environmental samples, and to identify sources of source water supplies to ensure levels meet plastic using Fourier Transform Infra Red Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines. Monitoring spectrometry. The project has focused on method results indicate a paucity of nutrients in the development and understanding fate in the Reservoirs to support blue-green algae wastewater treatment process and contributions populations. Staff made a presentation to from textiles. Medical Health Officers in 2019.
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Climate Action Committee
Capilano Reservoir
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 1.3 Increase use of natural and built green infrastructure
• Improve understanding about the different forms of green infrastructure and how it provides integrated benefits across the regional landscape; foster the exchange of information and experience regarding funding, design and maintenance techniques for green infrastructure.
Regional Green Infrastructure Promotion practice’ to increase understanding and uptake (Regional Planning & Housing Services) across all professions. Since 2015, Metro Vancouver Regional Planning has been promoting the Connecting the Dots: Support for Salmon Safe BC (Air Quality & Climate Regional Green Infrastructure Reference Guide, Change, Regional Planning & Housing Services) which describes different forms of green Metro Vancouver has provided annual funding to infrastructure and how a regional network can the Fraser Basin Council to support several increase climate resiliency, enhance the health of programs, including Salmon Safe BC, a third-party our communities, and protect biodiversity. In certification program that provides assessments 2019, Metro Vancouver assisted Simon Fraser and certification for agricultural and urban University’s Adaptation to Climate Change Team communities that protect and enhance Pacific (SFU ACT) to engaging planners, engineers, salmon habitat and water quality. In 2019 Salmon accountants and environmental professionals and Safe BC hosted several dialogues and webinars to identify the barriers, opportunities and benefits promote environmentally-friendly design and associated with a regional approach to green land management standards amongst infrastructure. SFU ACT is exploring a multi- developers, landowners and property managers. disciplinary green infrastructure ‘community of
• Incorporate the assessment of ecosystem services provided by green infrastructure into option analysis for project evaluation and planning.
Sustainable Infrastructure and Buildings Policy: Guide is expected to be completed by December Implementation Guide (Air Quality & Climate 2020. Change) In 2019, work was initiated to develop an Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant (Liquid implementation guide for project managers to Waste Services) deliver on key performance areas in Metro The vision for the Iona Island Wastewater Vancouver’s Sustainable Infrastructure and Treatment plant aims to protect, create and Buildings Policy, which was adopted by the Board enhance natural and engineered green in October 2018. The Policy includes ecological infrastructure at both the new plant, and the health as one of its priority performance adjacent Iona Beach Regional Park and natural objectives. Staff across all of Metro Vancouver’s areas. Green infrastructure strategies such as service areas (and a small group of technical protecting existing natural areas, restoring and advisors from outside the organization) are enhancing habitat, using and managing rainwater working to: (a) develop a method for determining on-site, and incorporating climate adaptation project eligibility under the policy, (b) determine features that also provide ecological benefits are the key performance objectives and minimum being developed. Connecting the wastewater levels of achievement for project types, and (c) treatment plant to Iona Beach Regional Park as a develop a verification process for projects. The continuous assembly of natural and built green
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Climate Action Committee infrastructure will enhance biodiversity, resistant shrubs/trees, public benches and ecological resilience, and ecosystem services. interpretive features regarding the water system and water conservation. The green space will be Kingston Gardens Redesign (Regional Planning & constructed at the end of tunnel construction. Housing Services) Metro Vancouver Housing is undertaking the Second Narrows Water Supply Tunnel – South redevelopment of the southwest portion of the Valve Chamber (Water Services) Kingston Gardens housing site to provide more Metro Vancouver is constructing a new water rental accommodation in a region desperately in supply tunnel called the Second Narrows Water need of affordable housing. The new building will Supply Tunnel deep under Burrard Inlet, east of offer one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units. the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge between the The grounds will feature community gardens and District of North Vancouver and the City of a stormwater retention area to collect and control Burnaby. The south valve chamber will be the stormwater onsite before being discharged constructed in the City of Burnaby’s Second into the city services. Landscaping plans include Narrows Park. This large chamber will be pollinator-friendly species and retaining mature constructed underground and blend into the trees along 152nd Street. steep slope of the park. Following construction, Metro Vancouver plans to construct a green roof Annacis Water Supply Tunnel – South and North on top of the chamber, including native grasses Shaft Green Spaces (Water Services) and shrubs. The site restoration will include Metro Vancouver is constructing a new water reduction of problematic invasive species at the supply tunnel called the Annacis Water Supply site, the installation of public features around the Tunnel deep under the Fraser River, between the chamber include park benches, and interpretive City of New Westminster and the City of Surrey. features for the public to view. The south shaft site in the City of Surrey is adjacent to a forested wildlife corridor. The site New Solid Waste Facilities (Solid Waste Services) was previously deforested. Once construction of Metro Vancouver is constructing two new solid the chamber is complete, the site will be restored waste transfer stations (Coquitlam and Recycling with a mix of native shrubs and trees. Over time and Waste Drop-off Facility). The facilities have as the restoration matures, the area will have a been designed and are being constructed using diverse habitat that will blend into the adjacent recycled content products, recovered waste as a wildlife corridor. Following construction of an construction material and in accordance with underground valve chamber at the north shaft Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Infrastructure site in the City of New Westminster, green space and Buildings Policy. The new facilities include amenities will be constructed to provide enhanced diversion services, flexibility for beneficial use for the public. Amenities will expansion and improved safety features. include planting of native species, drought
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 1.4 Manage invasive species
• Continue to provide a forum for coordination and collaboration with member jurisdictions and other parties to develop best practices, ensure appropriate disposal options, and increase awareness of invasive species.
Regional Invasive Species Subcommittee across the region. The RPAC-ISS meets quarterly (Regional Planning & Housing Services) and to explore ideas, contribute input and advice, At the request of our member jurisdictions, Metro collectively implement priority initiatives, provide Vancouver has been convening an Invasive feedback on research, and share technical and Species Subcommittee of the Regional Planning policy information on issues related to invasive Advisory Committee (RPAC-ISS) since 2016. species. Topics of interest in 2019 included Membership on the Subcommittee includes invasive plant detection with remote sensing (e.g. municipal staff and non-voting associates from LiDAR, drones), how invasive species will adapt to non-profit organizations, senior government climate change, biological control options, and agencies, right-of-way managers and others with best management practices. an interest in invasive species management
• Develop and employ best practices in the management of invasive species on Metro Vancouver lands and promote their use region-wide.
Invasive Species Best Management Practices Invasive Species Education and Outreach (Regional Planning & Housing Services, External Materials (Regional Planning & Housing Services, Relations) Water Services, Liquid Waste Services, Regional Metro Vancouver hired the Invasive Species Parks, External Relations) Council of Metro Vancouver to work with the RPAC-ISS and other experts on the development In collaboration with the RPAC-ISS, Metro of locally-tested best management practices Vancouver developed an introductory online (BMPs) for several priority invasive species. These course and a public brochure titled “Help Stop the BMPs provide guidance for local government Spread of Invasive Plants” to increase awareness, staff, crews, project managers, contractors, detection and prevent further spread of invasive consultants, developers, stewardship groups, and species in our region. others who have a role in invasive species management. Each BMP includes information Invasive Species Disposal Options (Solid Waste about identification, tracking, reporting, effective Services, Regional Planning & Housing Services) prevention and control strategies, disposal, In 2018, the GVS&DD amended the Tipping Fee monitoring and restoration, as well as references and Solid Waste Disposal Bylaw to clarify disposal and additional resources. By the end of 2019, options for invasive species at Metro Vancouver BMPs were completed for knotweeds, giant facilities. For instances where on site disposal is hogweed, Scotch broom, Himalayan blackberry, not feasible, staff created a list of disposal European chafer beetle, European fire ant, yellow facilities that accept invasive plant material and archangel, parrot’s feather, Himalayan balsam, soil infested with invasive species from English ivy and English holly. commercial customers. Staff update this list with new disposal facility information as it becomes available.
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Climate Action Committee Japanese Beetle Eradication Collaboration Regional Parks Invasive Species Management (Regional Planning & Housing Services, Solid (Regional Parks) Waste Services) Metro Vancouver Regional Parks continued in 2019 was year two of a multi-year effort to 2019 to conduct an ongoing inventory and control eradicate an infestation of Japanese beetle that of various invasive species of concern was detected in the False Creek area in the City of (knotweeds, yellow archangel, Scotch broom, Vancouver. Japanese beetle is highly invasive pest English ivy, English holly, English hawthorn, that can damage lawns and over 250 plant species yellow-flag iris, Himalayan blackberry, Himalayan including roses, fruit trees and other food plants. balsam, reed canary grass, wild chervil, white If this pest becomes widespread, it could cost BC’s poplar, butternut, and giant hogweed) within agricultural and horticultural sectors $25 million selected parks and areas. per year. The BC Ministry of Agriculture, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, City of Vancouver, Water Services Invasive Species Action Plan Invasive Species Council of BC, BC Landscape and Implementation (Water Services) Nursery Association, and Metro Vancouver have Watershed Environmental Management staff been working collaboratively to contain this continued to implement the Invasive Species 5- highly invasive insect. Metro Vancouver staff Year Action Plan. Staff continued to inventory and participate in regular coordination meetings and control various species of concern (knotweed, in 2019 Metro Vancouver’s Waste-to-Energy Scotch broom, English ivy, English holly, facility began accepting green waste from the Himalayan blackberry, Himalayan balsam, yellow infested area. The number of beetles declined by archangel, and giant hogweed) within selected 85% from 2018 to 2019. Water Service areas. The inventory will be used to identify problem areas and prioritize sites for treatment and control efforts.
Invasive Species eDNA Studies (Water Services) Watershed Environmental Management staff, in collaboration with a consultant, conducted studies using environmental DNA (eDNA) testing techniques to determine presence of the invasive American bullfrog in and near the Capilano Water Supply Area, Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, and surrounding developed areas. eDNA analysis is an emerging technology that allows for relatively quick, accurate, and low-disturbance assessment of waterbodies compared to traditional survey methods. eDNA is a promising advancement in the fight against encroaching invasive species as an aid in early detection and rapid response.
American bullfrog
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 1.5 Support natural and urban ecosystems to adapt to climate change
• Restore or enhance habitat on Metro Vancouver lands to improve ecological resiliency; explore opportunities to support native species and ecosystems in adapting to climate change.
Wetland Creation Projects (Regional Parks) Fish Habitat Enhancement Sites (Water Services) Two large pond and wetland projects were Water Services conducted an inventory of existing created, one at Colony Farm Sheep Paddocks Trail fish habitat enhancement sites within Watershed and the other at Aldergrove Nature Discovery lands and the Lower Seymour Conservation Loop. These ponds were created in fields Reserve. Enhancement sites provide critical over- previously dominated by reed canary grass. The wintering habitat to salmonid species and act as a open water and surrounding wetlands will buffer against potential stresses due to climate provide habitat for species at risk such as Western change. Enhancement sites also provide benefits painted turtle, red-legged frog and Western to local amphibian populations. Future work will toads. These wetlands will also help to mitigate evaluate the functionality of each site and identify flooding by capturing water and slowly releasing opportunities for maintenance and further it into the system. The thousands of plants will enhancements. sequester carbon and help cool the water during extended summer droughts.
• Support further research to improve understanding of the impacts of climate change on species and ecosystems and what can be done to help noninvasive species adapt.
Watershed Landslide Study (Water Services) consultant to add over 150 new tree species to Water Services conducted a study to determine the Species Selection Database. The Urban Forest landslide potential in the Capilano, Seymour, and Climate Adaptation project was also awarded a Coquitlam Watersheds given climate change 2019 Canadian Institute of Planner’s Award for models to help predict the frequency and Planning Excellence under the Climate Change magnitude of future events. Results of this study Planning category. indicate an expected increase over time in the number and magnitude of landslides with Fraser Basin Council Lower Mainland Flood potential to impact watershed ecosystems and Strategy Phase 2 (Regional Planning & Housing drinking water quality. The study results will Services, Water Services, Liquid Waste Services, support watershed land management and Regional Parks) planning for future water treatment Metro Vancouver provided funding to support requirements. the Fraser Basin Council. The Lower Mainland Flood Management Strategy (LMFMS) aims to Urban Forest Climate Adaptation Initiative reduce flood risk and improve the flood resilience (Regional Planning & Housing Services) of communities along BC's lower Fraser River and Regional Planning developed the Urban Forest south coast. Phase 2 of this initiative is focused on Climate Adaptation Initiative in 2016 to assess the developing a long term regional strategy. Metro risks and predicted changes to the region’s urban Vancouver’s staff regularly participate in regional forest. The initiative provides guidance to help dialogues on coastal resilience and flood practitioners manage urban forests in a changing management through the LMFMS. climate. In 2019, Regional Planning worked with a
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Climate Action Committee Urban Forest Climate Adaptation Initiative Award for Planning Excellence under the Climate (Regional Planning & Housing Services) Change Planning category. Regional Planning developed the Urban Forest Climate Adaptation Initiative in 2016 to assess the Climate 2050 Nature and Ecosystems Roadmap risks and predicted changes to the region’s urban (Regional Planning & Housing Seices, Air Quality & forest. The initiative provides guidance to help Climate Change, Regional Parks, Water Services, practitioners manage urban forests in a changing Liquid Waste Services) climate. In 2019, Regional Planning staff worked In 2019, staff continued to work with members, with a consultant to add over 150 new tree aligned organizations and the public to develop a species to the Species Selection Database. The discussion paper that will eventually inform a Urban Forest Climate Adaptation project was Climate 2050 Roadmap for Nature and awarded a 2019 Canadian Institute of Planner’s Ecosystems across this region.
Credit: Trevor Clark Metro Vancouver’s Ecological Health Framework - 2019 Progress Report Page 21
Climate Action Committee GOAL 2: Protect natural areas and conserve ecosystem services
Strategy 2.1 Provide data and analysis to inform planning
• Collect and maintain environmental data (e.g., biophysical data, ecosystem mapping, species surveys, ambient water and air quality, emission inventories, effluent monitoring); and report on trends in key ecological health indicators, where data are available, and work towards filling data gaps.
Regional Ecological Health Datasets (Regional Water Quality and Effluent Monitoring (Liquid Planning & Housing Services) Waste Services) Regional Planning collects, maintains and shares Liquid Waste Services continued to monitor and several ecological health-related datasets collect data on wastewater treatment plant described under Strategy 1.2, including: influents, effluents, environmental quality in the - Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory vicinity of the plants, combined sewer outflow - Land Cover Classification; and separated sewer overflow outfalls, and - Carbon Storage; and background (ambient) water quality in the region. - Tree Canopy Cover and Imperviousness (see Wastewater treatment plant influents and Strategy 3.1). effluents are monitored daily to weekly for routine parameters, monthly for metals, and These datasets are updated every six years and special studies are conducted for organics and will be used to measure and track aspects of the substances of emerging environmental concern. region’s ecological health overtime. Regional In 2019, a study was conducted to analyze for the Ecological Health Indicators from these and other presence of organics and substances of emerging available datasets will form the basis for a environmental concern in the Iona Wastewater regional ‘state of the environment’ assessment in Treatment Plant influent, effluent and biosolids, 2023. and at key locations in the Vancouver Sewerage Area collection system. The data from this study Web Viewer for Regional Biodiversity Data will inform future environmental monitoring (Regional Planning & Housing Services) programs, source control initiatives and the Working with the Data Science for Social Good design of the new Iona Island Wastewater (DSSG) program at UBC, this project explored the Treatment Plant. potential of creating a biodiversity web viewer for planners and other practitioners. The aim is to After each separated sewer outflow event, water increase accessibility of biodiversity information quality was monitored in the receiving so it can be more easily incorporated into environment and reports were submitted to the planning and decision-making. DSSG data BC Ministry of Environment and Environment scientists successfully created a pilot viewer that Canada. brought in major biodiversity data sources and provided different ways to select and summarize In 2019, combined sewer outflow discharge data. Regional Planning will explore the feasibility quality was monitored at the following combined of building on this work to create a publicly sewer outflow locations: Angus Drive, Cassiar, available web viewer. Clark Drive, English Bay, Glenbrook, Heather, and Macdonald. In addition, a sediment and benthic invertebrate survey report was completed for Clark Drive combined sewer outflow. Results and summaries of monitoring programs can be found
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Climate Action Committee in the GVS&DD Environmental Management and Wildlife Cameras (Water Services) Quality Control annual report. Watershed Environmental Management collaborated with the Kwikwetlam First Nation Trends in Ecological Health Indicators (Liquid and biologists from the BC Ministry of Forests, Waste Services) Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural The Canadian Council of the Ministers of Development to install a collection of wildlife Environment Water Quality Index (WQI) is used as monitoring cameras throughout Coquitlam an indicator of water quality for regional Watershed. This work will provide valuable waterbodies into which Metro Vancouver knowledge on the use of watershed lands by wastewater treatment Plants discharge treated wildlife, with particular interest in Roosevelt Elk effluent: Fraser River, Burrard Inlet and Sturgeon population dynamics, movement, and behaviour. Bank in the Strait of Georgia. The WQI for each of Cameras have also been installed in Seymour and these regional water bodies is posted on the Capilano Watersheds to learn more about wildlife Liquid Waste Services performance monitoring movements across watersheds. dashboard. Next Generation Watershed Monitoring (Water Ecosystem Health Monitoring (Water Services) Services) Following a recent ecological inventory, Watershed Environmental Management staff Watershed Environmental Management began the process to convert all watershed implemented a program to monitor population weather monitoring stations from radio to dynamics of pathogens and insect species for satellite telemetry. This improves Water Services’ evidence of potential outbreaks that could impact ability to collect important environmental data, forest health in Capilano, Seymour, and which are then used for planning and forecasting. Coquitlam Watersheds. In the past two years, Staff use various data collection methods, numbers of Western Hemlock Looper moths have including satellite and LiDAR surveys, to enhance shown an increase. An outbreak of Looper can snow survey techniques and improve forecasts of result in tree mortality and associated impacts to snow-water equivalent. Watershed the forest ecosystem and source drinking water. Environmental Management is collaborating with These data are used to inform watershed researchers from Vancouver Island University and management decisions and will feed into aerial the University of Northern British Columbia. In surveys of forest health to begin in 2020. 2019, Watershed Environmental Management developed and distributed an Environmental eDNA analysis was used to confirm aquatic Highlights Bulletin to all Water Services staff on species presence in various watercourses the utility’s use of satellite telemetry for remote throughout in the Lower Seymour Conservation monitoring of important environmental metrics, Reserve and results were incorporated into the such as temperature, precipitation, and water Environmental Assessment for the Seymour level. Water Main Twinning Project. Analyses resulted in the surprising discovery of DNA belonging to Environmental Flows Monitoring (Water the endangered Pacific water shrew in a Services) previously unknown area of the Lower Seymour Watershed Environmental Management staff Conservation Reserve. This information will aid in monitored environmental flows in Capilano, protecting this species and its habitat. Watershed Seymour, and Coquitlam Watersheds and Environmental Management staff attended downstream of the Cleveland and Seymour Falls training in 2019 on eDNA sampling methods and Dams. Staff collaborated with Environment & analysis for potential future use in house. Climate Change Canada in this effort to fulfill requirements of the Joint Water Use Plan. Environmental flow data also assist Metro
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Climate Action Committee Vancouver engineers with dam operations. • Testing different live staking methods for Baseline data will be important to track and unsanctioned trail closures to support habitat monitor effects of climate change on protection at Pacific Spirit Regional Park. environmental flows over time. Forest Health Study (Regional Parks) Watershed Environmental Management and In 2019, Regional Parks conducted a Forest Health Technical Support Services staff conducted fish Study of regional parks, including an aerial flyover stranding studies on Capilano River below to access broad level tree health to aid in forest Cleveland Dam to evaluate flow regimes and management planning. potential risk to fish as a result of existing ramping rates. Water Services is evaluating results of the Greenhouse Gas Flux Measurements in study and strategies to mitigate risk through Peatlands Undergoing Restoration (Regional adjustment of ramping rates and nighttime Parks) releases of water to maintain adequate fish flows. Regional Parks supported and collaborated with This is a requirement under the Joint Water Use UBC Department of Geography Plan and further studies will occur in Seymour Micrometeorology Lab to quantify gas and water River in 2020. exchange at Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area. UBC now operates two eddy covariance flux Research and Monitoring of Species and towers within the Conservancy Area, one of which Ecosystems (Regional Parks) was installed in 2014 and the second in 2019. Regional Parks has ongoing research and Year-round measurements of methane and monitoring programs to provide data to inform carbon dioxide will quantify the annual park management and operations. In 2019, these greenhouse gas balance of the bog and provide programs included: information on land-cover-based emission • Use of wildlife cameras in Widgeon Marsh, reduction or offset measures in Metro Vancouver. Minnekhada, Burns Bog, Iona Beach, Grouse Mountain, Pacific Spirit, Codd Wetland, Air Emissions Inventory and Backcast/Forecast Kanaka Creek and Lynn Headwaters Regional (Air Quality & Climate Change) Parks; Air Quality & Climate Change tracks the region’s • eDNA studies at Lynn Headwaters; air quality by collecting data on air emissions in • Amphibian monitoring in Belcarra, Lynn the region and compiling an emissions inventory Headwaters, Grouse Mountain and Pacific every five years. The 2015 inventory was Spirit Regional Parks; completed in 2018, and data collection for the • Bird monitoring studies at Widgeon Marsh 2020 inventory will begin in 2021. The inventory (waterfowl) and Campbell Valley (owls) describes the types and amounts of contaminants Regional Parks; released into the air by different types of sources. • Soil and water table analysis in Campbell Metro Vancouver also compiles an emissions Valley Regional Park to inform future wetland backcast and forecast, which helps track how construction projects; emissions have changed over the past 20 years • Water quality testing at Iona Beach, Lynn and how emissions are expected to change in the Headwaters, and Pacific Spirit (Camosun Bog) future. Metro Vancouver is developing a web data Regional Parks; portal to provide enhanced access to emissions • Restoration monitoring at Pacific Spirit and inventory data for the region. Iona Beach Regional Parks; • Dog impact study at Pacific Spirit Regional Annual Ambient Air Quality Data Report/Caring Park; and for the Air (Air Quality & Climate Change) Metro Vancouver prepares an annual report that summarizes the air quality monitoring data
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Climate Action Committee collected by the Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality during the year. The main focus is to report on the Monitoring Network and describes the air quality state of ambient (outdoor) air quality in the Lower monitoring activities and programs conducted Fraser Valley.
• Conduct applied policy research that supports evidence-based decision making related to ecological health.
Solid Waste Qualities and Applied Policy Foundation of BC, TransLink and City of Research (Solid Waste Services) Vancouver on the Where Matters Study, which Solid Waste Services compiles and reports on assessed the health and economic benefits of annual regional solid waste quantities and walkable communities and access to parks using composition of reused, recycled and disposed local health and data. The study concluded that municipal solid wastes in the region. In 2019, Metro Vancouver residents living in areas with staff also conducted various applied research many parks tend to be more physically active, projects including management of cannabis have a stronger sense of community belonging, wastes, compost market assessment, and quality are less likely to suffer from obesity, diabetes, and contamination of compost by foreign heart disease, and stressful days, and therefore materials. ultimately spending less on health care compared to people live in an area with no parks. Where Matters (Regional Planning & Housing The researchers recommended investments in Services) parks, green space, and open space programs to In 2019, Metro Vancouver partnered with UBC’s increase access to recreational environments, School of Population and Public Health, particularly in underserved communities. Vancouver Coastal Health, the Real Estate
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 2.2 Incorporate ecosystem services into decision making
• Incorporate ecosystem services into corporate planning and investments (e.g., financial feasibility assessments for projects, park land acquisition, regional plans, inventory of corporate natural assets, and carbon price policy).
Carbon Price Policy Implementation and 2021 to condition the hallway air to avoid Improvements increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Metro Vancouver’s Carbon Price Policy was adopted by the Metro Vancouver Board in June Asset Management Long-Range Planning (Water 2017. By pricing carbon pollution at $150/tonne, Services) the policy is meant to improve corporate In 2019, the Metro Vancouver Board approved sustainability by putting a value on the the Asset Management for Water Services policy greenhouse gas emissions that a project will that considers natural assets as well as built produce over its lifetime. The Policy is being assets. The current project prioritization process incorporated into the life cycle cost analysis for Long Range Planning includes consideration of process, and financial business casing tools and ecological health. Proposed capital projects training courses to ensure staff include the carbon receive points for improving ecological health, if price during capital and operational energy this is a primary or secondary driver of the planning processes. project.
Metro Vancouver Housing Site Rehabilitation Waste-to-Energy District Energy Projects (Solid (Regional Planning & Housing Services) Waste Services) In 2019, Metro Vancouver Housing undertook or Metro Vancouver has engaged a consultant to initiated planning for upgrades to improve energy complete the preliminary design and business efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions case for a district energy system using heat from at several affordable rental housing sites. These the Waste-to-Energy Facility. A district energy included: system will include an energy centre to convert - Replacement of exterior building assemblies steam from the Metro Vancouver Waste-to- including courtyard waterproofing, roofing, Energy Facility to hot water, and a distribution wall cladding, windows, sliding glass and system to transport the hot water through an exterior doors, balcony membranes and underground energy distribution network to guard rails, hallway make-up air mechanical users. The energy could be used for domestic heat system at Evergreen Downs Apartment and and hot water, non-residential uses such as Kelly Court. community facilities including swimming pools - Replacement of natural gas boilers at Inlet and ice rinks, as well as industrial uses. The district Centre Apartments (design and installation energy system would reduce greenhouse gas complete), Fraserwood Apartment (design emissions by offsetting natural gas use, and and installation complete), and Manor House would increase the efficiency of the Waste-to- (design completed in 2019, installation 2020). Energy Facility because energy losses associated - Replacement of natural gas make-up air with convert steam to electricity are avoided with ventilation unit (MAU) at Hugh Bird (design district energy systems. started in late 2019, installation 2020). - An assessment of roof top mechanical unit replacements at Evergreen Downs Apartment based on carbon pricing. The goal is to install an all electric air source heat pump in 2020-
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Climate Action Committee Quantifying Carbon Credits from Parks Land forested areas, and the health of the stands. Acquisition (Regional Parks) These assessments quantified how much carbon In December 2019, Metro Vancouver acquired 70 is stored within the forest, and has therefore been hectares of forested land adjacent to Codd protected through the purchase and conservation Wetlands Ecological Conservation Area and of these areas as park land. These purchases are Minnekhada Regional Park as additions to the eligible for non-market forest carbon credits regional park system. Timber assessment reports under the Provincial Carbon Neutral Framework identified the types and age of trees present, and Forest Management plans are now in timber volumes, the extent and location of the development.
Black cottonwood in Surrey Bend Regional Park
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 2.3 Enhance ecosystem connectivity
• Provide data and analysis to support the work of multiple agencies across the region to advance connectivity objectives.
Green Space Connectivity Analysis and Index method was applied to a wider range of species, Development (Regional Planning & Housing to create a suite of habitat connectivity networks Services) for native amphibians, birds and mammals across In 2018, UBC was retained by Regional Planning the region. UBC also began work in 2019 to to use the land cover dataset to pilot a method to develop a green space connectivity index that can map regional greenspace connectivity for three be easily interpreted, and used for decision representative native species. Using the making relating to land use planning, green CONEFOR tool, researchers identified suitable infrastructure planning, and habitat and assessed connectivity, identifying conservation/restoration initiatives across the areas critical for maintaining landscape region. connectivity for each species. In 2019, the
• Continue to explore opportunities to enhance connectivity through the Regional Parks network, watersheds, drainage areas, and other sites across the region.
Transportation of Salmon (Water Services) manner to facilitate fish access to upstream In Spring 2019, Watershed Environmental habitats. Water Services developed a pre- Management completed the 10th year of the Trap- screening field form to identify candidate culverts and-Truck Smolt Program to collect and transport for future work to improve fish passage. This juvenile salmonids from Capilano Reservoir information is used during project planning to downstream to the Capilano River. A total of inform structure design and installation 18,919 juvenile Coho and 323 juvenile Steelhead opportunities. were trapped in Capilano Reservoir, counted, and transported downstream for release at the Kwikwetlem Sockeye Restoration Program Capilano River mouth. This project improves (Water Services) juvenile survivorship during outmigration by Watershed Environmental Management staff bypassing the Cleveland Dam and reducing losses participate annually in the Kwikwetlem Sockeye to predation, thereby greatly increasing the Restoration Project (KSRP) and the Coquitlam number of fish that reach the estuary and River Watershed Roundtable to collaborate with potentially returning to Capilano River as other agencies and stakeholders on matters spawning adults. Water Services staff work pertaining to water quality, habitat restoration, together with the Capilano River Fish Hatchery to and habitat connectivity. The KSRP is a BC Hydro- transport returning adult salmonids upstream of led initiative focused on the return of a self- the Dam. For the first time since Dam sustaining sockeye salmon run to the Coquitlam construction, adult Coho were released into the River Watershed. upper Seymour Watershed in 2019. Fish Hatcheries (Water Services) Fish Passage Culverts (Water Services) Metro Vancouver provides funding annually to Watershed Environmental Management staff the Seymour Salmonid Society to operate the worked to improve fish passage on watershed Seymour River Hatchery and run education lands by enhancing two culverts in a ‘fish friendly’ programs for school groups. Water Services has a
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Climate Action Committee collaborative agreement with Capilano River system to alert hatchery personnel to help Hatchery for the ongoing maintenance and prevent fish and egg mortalities due to issues with operations of infrastructure supplying water to water supply. the Capilano River Hatchery. Watershed Environmental Management works with Fisheries Road Deactivation (Water Services) and Oceans Canada and volunteers at the Grist Water Services staff deactivated 500 metres of Goesen Memorial Hatchery on the Coquitlam non-essential forest service road in Seymour River to ensure an adequate supply of water for Watershed. Natural hydrological regimes were fish rearing. In 2019, Water Services installed a restored and native vegetation re-planted. Critical flow meter and turbidity meter on the raw water riparian habitat in the lower reaches of the supplied to Grist Goesen Memorial Hatchery to Seymour Watershed was restored and re-planted monitor real-time changes in water quality and with native species. Riparian areas provide quantity that may impact hatchery operations. important refuge for aquatic and terrestrial Water Services developed an alarm warning species.
• Promote pollinator-friendly gardening and landscaping to provide connected habitat across the region.
Grow Green Guide (External Relations, Regional skill or space constraints. In 2019, Grow Green Planning & Housing Services) plants were assessed by local experts to create The growgreenguide.ca website was launched in accurate and regionally relevant information on 2016 in collaboration with the UBC Botanical plants that support native birds and a ‘Green Garden to provide residents throughout the Thumb News’ article was published on creating a region with guidance on how to grow an eco- pollinator-friendly garden. friendly lawn or garden, regardless of gardening
Rufous hummingbird
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 2.4 Conserve habitat for species and ecosystems
• Secure land for regional parks centered on protection of the region’s important natural areas in collaboration with partners.
Implementation of Regional Parks Land Also in 2019, the Metro Vancouver Board Acquisition 2050 Strategy (Regional Parks) approved a $4-million annual increase to the The Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Regional Park Land Acquisition Fund to support Strategy was adopted by the Metro Vancouver implementation of the Land Acquisition strategy. Board in 2018 and identifies land suitable for This will allow for the purchase of additional protection as a regional park. In 2019, Regional natural areas for regional park land starting in Parks began implementation of the strategy and 2020, and support climate mitigation and acquired over 80 hectares of land to expand the adaptation in the region. North Alouette Regional Greenway, Codd Wetland Ecological Conservancy Area, and Kanaka Creek and Minnekhada Regional Parks.
• Restore and enhance terrestrial and aquatic habitat to support biodiversity.
Ecological Restoration Program (Regional Parks) • Construction of a turtle nesting beach at Continuing the program to restore degraded Campbell Valley Regional Park; sites, enhance biodiversity, and promote • Installation of bat boxes at Colony Farm, ecosystem resilience in the Regional Parks Widgeon Marsh, Brae Island, Campbell Valley System. In 2019, habitat restoration projects and Kanaka Creek Regional Parks; were completed at many parks, including Colony • Evaluation of barn owl boxes and habitat at Farm, Boundary Bay, Iona Beach, Tynehead, Colony Farm, Derby Reach, Campbell Valley Burnaby Lake, Surrey Bend, Aldergrove, Campbell and Aldergrove Regional Parks and Pitt River Valley and Brae Island Regional Parks. Examples Regional Greenway; of projects include: • Maintenance and monitoring of 100s of nest • Installing an underground dam to restore boxes across the system with the help of hydrology at Camosun bog. Removal of community volunteers; and invasive plants and replanting with coniferous • Installation of new beaver resistant culverts trees over an 18-hectare area (Pacific Spirt at Pacific Spirit Regional Park, and a beaver Regional Park) resistant outflow pipe for the Killarney Lake • Removing pine seedlings to support bog dam at Crippen Regional Park as a restoration (Burns Bog Regional Park), and coexistence strategy. • Completing restoration of Thornvale Pond. Renaturalizing a previously built and highly Grasslands Management Program (Regional impacted area with native trees and shrubs Parks) (Kanaka Creek Regional Park) Continued program to improve old-field habitat values identified in Park Management Plans, Habitat Enhancement Program (Regional Parks) especially areas identified as being of Regional Parks has an ongoing program to conservation concern. The priority is further enhance habitat within our parks system. In 2019, renovation and monitoring of grassland areas this program included:
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Climate Action Committee located in Campbell Valley, Aldergrove, and Tynehead Regional Parks. Pacific Water Shrew Critical Habitat (Water Services) Barn Swallow Compensation Structures (Water Watershed Environmental Management worked Services) with subject matter experts to investigate habitat Watershed staff worked with a qualified suitability and use by the endangered Pacific environmental professional consultant to install Water Shrew in an area identified as ‘critical exclusion measures to prevent barn swallow habitat’ in the Lower Seymour Conservation colony nesting on facilities and thus potential Reserve below Seymour Falls Dam. The Pacific harm to nests resulting from watershed Water Shrew is listed in the federal Species at Risk operations work. To compensate for this and Act and the Federal Government has developed a ensure endangered barn swallow populations in Recovery Strategy for the species, which includes the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve have protection of critical habitat. The information access to suitable nesting structures, staff gathered by Metro Vancouver will be used during constructed a compensation structure nearby. project planning and construction to mitigate Additional structures will be constructed in 2020 potential impacts to sensitive shrew populations in Capilano and Seymour Watersheds. and their habitat. Compensation structures are monitored for use by barn swallows and other species. Raptor Protection Protocol (Water Services) Water Services developed and distributed a Marbled Murrelet & Barred Owl Studies (Water Raptor Protection Protocol to assist staff, Services) contractors, and consultants in the protection of Watershed Environmental Management works raptors and their nests during Metro Vancouver with staff from the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, construction projects. Raptor habitat suitability Natural Resources Operations and Rural mapping in the Lower Mainland is underway with Development to identify and monitor presence of Water Services staff collaborating with BCIT and the endangered Marbled Murrelet in Capilano municipalities to map known raptor nest sites. and Coquitlam Watersheds. Staff also collaborate This information can be used for project planning with the Province on barred owl populations and maintenance scheduling to mitigate potential studies. Barred owls are known to outcompete impacts to raptors and their nests during sensitive the endangered native Northern Spotted Owl for times of the year, ensure regulatory compliance, habitat. The results of this work will be used to and avoid construction delays. inform management decisions for the protection of endangered species.
• Conduct a review of Metro 2040 environmental and climate change policies to inform the next iteration of the regional growth strategy.
Metro 2040 Environment, Climate Change and Climate Change Impacts. Staff hosted a half-day Natural Hazards Policy Reviews (Regional policy forum on June 6, 2019 with representatives Planning & Housing Services) from member jurisdictions, academia, consulting In 2019, Regional Planning initiated the review of practice, other levels of government, health several key policy areas in Metro Vancouver 2040: authorities, and other Metro Vancouver Shaping our Future (Metro 2040), the regional departments to discuss regional environmental growth strategy, including the policies under Goal land use policies that would better protect 3: Protect the Environment and Respond to ecologically important areas, enhance
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Climate Action Committee biodiversity-led regional green infrastructure, and review will apply a ‘climate lens’ increasing the link green space in urban areas to human health. prominence of greenhouse gas emissions, climate Regional Planning staff also initiated a Climate adaptation and resiliency policies in the updated Change and Natural Hazards policy review in late regional growth strategy. 2019 to inform the Metro 2040 update. The
Bald eagle in Delta Credit: Trevor Clark
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Climate Action Committee GOAL 3: Nurture nature within communities
Strategy 3.1 Promote sustainable green spaces within communities
• Provide data, conduct research, and convene forums to support member jurisdictions in planning communities with sufficient green spaces such as parks, nature trails, and urban forests.
Urban Forest Climate Adaptation Initiative to inform land use planning and Ecological Health (Regional Planning & Housing Services) Framework indicator reporting in future years. In In addition to the actions noted under Strategy this region, tree canopy cover measures 54% for 1.5, Regional Planning staff hosted an Urban the entire Metro Vancouver land base, and 32% Forest Climate Adaptation workshop in 2019 with for the portion of the land within the Urban over 100 different practitioners from across the Containment Boundary, with great variation region including arborists, growers, landscape among neighbourhoods and land use types. architects, planners, environment managers, Impervious surfaces total 20% regionally and 50% grounds/maintenance staff, urban foresters, and of the land base within the Urban Containment health authority representatives. The workshop Boundary. Although regional trend data is not yet collected information about tree species available, the report used available data to show selection decision points from each groups and that regional tree canopy cover is likely in decline, sought feedback on the development of an online and impervious surfaces are most likely increasing tree decision-making tool. as parts of the region urbanize. These indicators will be updated in the future to provide more Tree Canopy Cover and Imperviousness accurate trend data. The report also includes a (Regional Planning & Housing Services) number of recommendations to turn these trends Using the Metro Vancouver Land Cover around, including continued monitoring to inform Classification dataset described above, Metro actions, adopting and enforcing tree protection Vancouver conducted an analysis of tree canopy bylaws, and implementing green infrastructure cover1 and impervious surfaces2 across the region approaches.
• Promote sustainable best practice in gardening and landscaping for residents and professionals.
Grow Green Guide (External Relations, Regional preserving your summer harvest, and why plant Planning & Housing Services) trees. Grow Green plants were also assessed by In addition to the enhancements mentioned local experts to create accurate and regionally under Strategy 2.3, ‘Green Thumb News’ articles relevant information on plant-specific watering were added to growgreenguide.ca throughout requirements. 2019 to support sustainable gardening practices, such as low maintenance lawn alternatives, lawn watering tips, understanding soil health,
1 Tree canopy cover refers to the leaves and branches that 2 Impervious surfaces, such as paved roads and buildings, form a visible layer if one is viewing the region from the air, are surfaces that allow very little or no water to pass and the extent to which they cover the ground. through them.
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Climate Action Committee Community Gardening Handbook (Regional member municipalities for enhancing green Planning & Housing Services) spaces, creating wildlife habitat and landscaping Metro Vancouver Housing is committed to of public spaces. For more information visit assisting our residents to develop thriving, nutrifor.ca. sustainable community gardens. In 2019, Metro Vancouver published Good Gardens Good Municipal Waste-Derived Compost Research Communities Community Gardening Handbook: (Solid Waste Services) Your Guide to Gardening at Metro Vancouver A research project was completed in 2019 to map Housing which provides information to assist the compost markets in BC. This project examined the community to plan, develop and manage a current and potential supply of compost from community garden. organic diversion programs, identifying potential compost needs in the agricultural sector based on Biosolids in Landscaping (Liquid Waste Services) provincial soil texture and agricultural crops. In 2019, Metro Vancouver biosolids recovered Research is underway to sample and test compost from advanced wastewater treatment were used sold by BC retailers and analyze its quality and to fabricate 45,000 m3 of landscaping soil. safety with regards to potential contamination by Approximately 11,000 m3 of Nutrifor Landscaping foreign materials. Soil were used by Metro Vancouver and its
• Employ sustainable best practice in landscaping on Metro Vancouver lands.
Shared Garden Spaces and Landscaping on and those that encourage pollinators (bees and Metro Vancouver Housing Sites (Regional butterflies). Planning & Housing Services) Soon to be completed, Heather Place Building A The community garden space at Kelly Court is at will provide 67 affordable homes for families, the west side of the property for maximum sun couples, singles and seniors, and the surrounding exposure. As the majority of tenants at Kelly Court grounds include shared community gardens, a have accessibility issues, the primary design fruit orchid, edible greenscaping, a landscaped strategy for this garden space was around public pocket park space, and an infiltration accessibility standards, so the walkways and trench that collects and controls the stormwater permeable paved surfaces are wide enough for onsite before being discharged into the city mobilized wheelchairs to turn around in place and services. The building also features a sedum mix most of the garden beds are raised off the ground green roof. and allow for better wheelchair access. The western border of the community garden The courtyard of Evergreen Downs Apartments includes a living fence, or ‘food crop hedge’. features large raised garden beds interspersed Similar to Evergreen Downs, the planned planting with permeable pavement where tenants can within the landscape will include native plants meet as a community. Many of the garden beds and those that encourage pollinators (bees and are dedicated to growing different fruits and butterflies). vegetables and will be managed by those tenants that want their own beds. There will be a new greenhouse where tenants can propagate seedlings for their beds. The planned planting within the landscape will include native plants
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Climate Action Committee Annacis Research Centre Butterflyway Garden in coordination with the David Suzuki (Liquid Waste Services) Foundation’s Butterflyway Project, which aims to Nutrifor Landscaping Soil, made with biosolids develop a Canada-wide network of habitat for recovered from advanced wastewater treatment, bees, butterflies and other insects. was used to create a butterflyway garden at Annacis Research Centre. The garden was created
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Climate Action Committee Strategy 3.2 Build a broad base of understanding and support for ecological health
• Continue to provide interpretive, educational, and stewardship programs, teacher workshops, forums, and youth leadership opportunities to enhance public understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment within our regional parks, conservation reserves, greenways, and watersheds.
Regional Parks Public Interpretation and Volunteers spent over 15,000 hours conducting Stewardship Programs (Regional Parks) stewardship activities in Regional Parks in 2019. In 2019, Regional Park’s staff provided 782 Stewardship activities included native planting, interpretive programs and events to 47,222 invasive species removal, monitoring and habitat participants, helping to deepen understanding maintenance. and appreciation of nature in regional parks. This includes group programs, public programs, Watershed Education Program (Water Services) events, education blitz, and contact with the Water Services offers curriculum-connected public at nature houses. Community-based Park programs for K-12 audiences that introduce Associations also continued to support Regional students to the source of their drinking water Parks by providing educational programs and while emphasizing conservation of this essential events. These Park Associations engaged 10,457 resource and the importance of ecologically participants in 207 events and programs in 2019. resilient watersheds. In 2019, 120 classes participated in these programs with over 3,400 The development of a Public Programming students. These programs include a full-day tour Strategy will help Regional Parks meet its of the watershed as well as pre- and post- objectives to ‘protect’ and ‘connect’ through the program activities for teachers to incorporate into provision of programming and interpretation that their classroom learning. will deepen public understanding, appreciation and protection of the natural environment. These Water Services staff also led family and special programs are typically listed in Regional Parks' interest group tours in the Lower Seymour Check it Out! Nature Program Guide. The strategy Conservation Reserve, Coquitlam and Capilano was developed in 2019 and will be completed in watersheds. In 2019, over 2,400 people learned 2020. about our watersheds via public tours.
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Climate Action Committee • Increase public awareness about the value of healthy ecosystems and ways residents can enhance ecological health.
Behaviour Change Campaigns (External that highlighted the connections between air Relations, Solid Waste Services, Liquid Waste emissions and ecological health: Services, Water Services) - ‘Mimicking Nature to Reduce Waste’ is about In 2019, Metro Vancouver ran several major the National Industrial Symbiosis Program, public behaviour change campaigns that which is based on the idea that in nature, one benefited ecological health directly or indirectly: organism’s waste can be another organism’s - ‘Hey! Food scraps aren’t garbage’ encourages resource. the diversion of food waste from disposal in - ‘Reducing the Risks of Wildfire Smoke in support of the regional organics disposal ban; Metro Vancouver’ outlines how we can - ‘Put waste in its place’ discourages illegal prevent wildfires by managing our dumping and abandonment of wastes; watersheds and regional parks. - ‘Think Thrice’ encourages the reuse and repair of clothing, and the prevention of In addition to these two articles, content about clothing waste through better purchasing climate change and the Clean Air Plan refer to the decisions; impacts of climate change on our ecosystems. - ‘Create memories, not garbage’ encourages the giving of long-lasting and/or waste-free Rental Tenant Programs (Regional Planning & gifts during the holiday season; Housing Services) - ‘More than meets the eye’ encourages Metro Vancouver Housing owns and operates 49 recycling of electronic items to keep harmful affordable rental housing sites across the region, chemicals out of our environment; providing 3,400 units of low end of market and - ‘The Unflushables’ educates residents about subsidized housing for more than 9,400 people. In the proper disposal of ‘unflushables’ such as 2019, Metro Vancouver helped rental tenants wipes (baby wipes, personal hygiene wipes enhance ecological health by: and cleaning wipes), paper towels, - Expanding a free perishable food program medications, hair, tampons + applicators, that ensures good food is removed from the floss and condoms; waste stream and offered to low income - ‘Wipe it, green bin it’ asks residents to put residents. This program resulted in small amounts of grease in their green bins, measurable benefits by reducing residents’ instead of down their sinks; and grocery bills and food waste. - ‘We love water’ educates residents about - Engaging residents from selected housing where their water comes from, why it’s sites in an Energy Competition to reduce their important to conserve, and provides easy tips energy consumption, in partnership with to use a little less around the home. Fortis BC. Creating awareness is the first step in changing behaviour and our ecological Caring for the Air Report (Air Quality & Climate footprint. Change) - Assisting Greystone Village residents to work Metro Vancouver Air Quality & Climate Change with Eagle Creek Stream Keepers Society and publishes a plain-language report called Caring organize a clean-up of the salmon bearing for the Air each year to highlight Metro creek that borders the housing site. Residents Vancouver’s air quality and climate change and the surrounding community came programs. The 2019 edition included two articles together to help protect this ecologically sensitive area.
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Climate Action Committee • Develop a common lexicon, training modules, and materials to increase staff and member support for environmental protection and enhancement projects.
Environmental Awareness Training (Water Watershed Protection Protocol Education and Services, Liquid Waste Services) Enforcement Liquid Waste Services and Water Services staff Watershed Environmental Management staff developed several e-Learning training modules to continue to make contractors and consultants increase staff and contractor environmental aware of our established watershed entry awareness on: restrictions and equipment cleaning protocols. - ‘Environmental Awareness for Water and Watershed staff enforce protocols at entrance Liquid Waste Field Work’ describes why gates by inspecting all vehicles and equipment Metro Vancouver needs to manage that enter the watersheds and Lower Seymour environmental risk, how typical field work Conservation Reserve for mud, oil, grease, activities can impact the environment, and invasive plant parts, zebra or quagga mussels, or what measures should be taken to prevent other contaminants. Equipment or vehicles that and mitigate potential impacts from field do not meet guidelines are either turned away or work activities. required to undergo decontamination cleaning - ‘Liquid Waste Services Routine Operational prior to entry. Equipment decontamination Discharges’ describes what routine stations are set up and maintained at each gate. operational discharges are; how Liquid Waste Services monitors, models and assesses their Regional Parks Advisory Committee (Regional interaction with the environment; and how Parks) the assessments inform planning and The Regional Parks Advisory Group facilitates decisions. communication and information sharing between - ‘Invasive Species in Metro Vancouver’ Regional and Municipal Park staff on matters provides information about invasive species relating to regional parks program delivery. found in Metro Vancouver, impacts, policies, Topics discussed in 2019 included natural capital regulations, prevention, reporting for Water assets, natural resource management, managing Services and Regional Parks staff, contractors, invasive European chafer beetle, and nature and volunteers. houses in Regional Parks. - ‘Watershed Protection – Watershed Orientation’ provides information to staff, Stormwater Inter-agency Liaison Group (Liquid contractors, and consultants entering Waste Services) Capilano, Seymour, or Coquitlam Watersheds In 2019, the Stormwater Inter-agency Liaison on environmental protection measures, such Group continued to meet on a bimonthly basis to as regulations, sanitary guidelines, and share information and best practices, and to materials importation guidelines. identify areas for collaboration. Topics included: source control verification standards, training and Water Services’ in-house subject matter experts certification programs; operations and also provided training sessions to staff within the maintenance strategies and new technologies; utility on a variety of environment-related topics, groundwater impacts due to urbanization; including environmental incident response and erosion and sediment control issues and best reporting, wildlife protection and reporting, and practices; and Monitoring and Adaptive water quality sampling and measurement. Management Framework data sharing and interpretation.
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Climate Action Committee Regional Planning Advisory Committee - Regional Engineers Advisory Committee - Environment Subcommittee (Regional Planning Climate Protection Subcommittee (Air Quality & & Housing Services) Climate Change) Since 2016, Regional Planning has been Composed primarily of municipal energy convening an Environment Subcommittee of the managers or sustainability staff, the Climate Regional Planning Advisory Committee (RPAC- Protection Subcommittee of the Regional ENV). Membership on the Subcommittee includes Engineers Advisory Committee (REAC-CPS) municipal environmental, parks and planning meetings monthly to discuss climate-related staff member jurisdictions across the region and matters of importance to member municipalities. both health authorities. The RPAC-ENV meets In 2019, the REAC-CPS discussed greenhouse gas quarterly and to explore ideas, contribute input reduction topics (including clean vehicle and advice, collectively implement priority standards, electric vehicle promotion and initiatives, provide feedback on research, and infrastructure, greenhouse gas modelling and share technical and policy information on issues targets, organics recycling credits, the provincial related to invasive species. Topics of interest in Clean BC plan, and the Clean Air Plan), Climate 2019 included the Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory, Emergency Declaration responses, and the a green infrastructure network, international update to Metro 2040. Staff also co-hosted a green city initiatives, eagle and heron nest session on climate adaptation topics (low carbon management, natural capital assets inventory and resilience, risk assessments, coastal flooding, valuation, riparian area encroachment, regional healthy design guidelines, natural capital, and greenways plan, urban forest climate adaptation, agricultural adaptation) in collaboration with the and Metro 2040 environmental land use policies. RPAC-Environment Subcommittee.
CONCLUSION Metro Vancouver is clearly committed to ecological health. In 2019, the organization advanced over 100 initiatives that support ecological health by improving environmental performance in its services and functions, collecting and analyzing regional environmental data to inform decision making, designing new facilities with a vision to reduce impacts and enhance ecosystem function, and fostering public education about the value of natural areas. Progress was also made on conserving habitat for species and ecosystems, increasing green spaces within communities, and enhancing the ecosystem services, such as clean water, clean air, and carbon storage, that are vital for both human and ecological health.
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39177980 Climate Action Committee 5.7
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Laurie Bates-Frymel, Senior Planner Regional Planning and Housing Services Department
Date: May 22, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris
RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board: a) receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris”; and b) direct staff to forward the Best Management Practices to member jurisdictions for information.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Building on an existing library of technical guidance for eleven priority invasive species, Metro Vancouver has again worked with the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver, member jurisdictions and other local experts to produce a set of additional best management practices – this time for purple loosestrife, reed canarygrass, wild chervil, and yellow flag iris. These documents provide information about how to identify, track, report, dispose, prevent further spread and effectively control these species, as well as regulatory requirements, monitoring and restoration tips, references and additional resources. New this year, each best management practice guide also describes how each of these invasive species may adapt as our climate changes.
PURPOSE To provide the Climate Action Committee and the MVRD Board with four new invasive species best management practices documents for information.
BACKGROUND In 2018 and 2019, the Climate Action Committee received reports regarding best management practices for knotweed species, giant hogweed, European fire ant, European chafer beetle, Himalayan blackberry, Scotch broom, English holly, English and Irish ivies, yellow archangel, Himalayan balsam, and parrot’s feather. Those reports also identified the next set of species for which locally-tested best management practices would be most valuable, based on input from member jurisdictions on the Regional Planning Advisory Committee – Invasive Species Subcommittee: purple loosestrife, reed canarygrass, wild chervil, and yellow flag iris. This report presents the best management practices that have been developed for those four species.
Invasive species best management practices are a Climate Action Committee Work Plan item for the second quarter of 2020.
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Climate Action Committee Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 4
THE NEED FOR AND DEVELOPMENT OF REGIONAL BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES Invasive species are non-native flora or fauna that out-compete native species and can be highly destructive and difficult to control. They can threaten property and recreational values, infrastructure, agriculture, public health and safety, as well as ecological health. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, invasive species are one of the biggest causes of biodiversity loss and species extinctions, and are also a global threat to food security and livelihoods.
In 2016, the Regional Planning Advisory Committee-Invasive Species Subcommittee raised concern about inconsistent invasive species management practices across the region, and the need for locally- tested, practitioner-focussed guidance. They requested the development of regionally-appropriate best management practices for priority invasive species. In October 2018, the MVRD Board adopted the Ecological Health Framework, which illustrates Metro Vancouver's role in protecting and enhancing ecological health as it relates to its services and functions, and supporting regional efforts. The Framework commits Metro Vancouver to “develop and employ best practices in the management of invasive species on Metro Vancouver lands and promote their use region-wide”.
Metro Vancouver retained the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV) to create the best management practice documents. The target audiences are local government staff, crews, project managers, contractors, consultants, developers, stewardship groups, and others who have a role in invasive species management. The best management practices include technical guidance about identification, tracking, reporting, effective prevention and control strategies, regulatory requirements, disposal, monitoring and restoration, as well as references and additional resources. This guidance is based on the best available scientific expertise and local experience.
OVERVIEW OF LATEST FOUR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (REFERENCES 1-4) The best management practices for purple loosestrife (Reference 1), reed canarygrass (Reference 2), wild chervil (Reference 3), and yellow flag iris (Reference 4) have been reviewed by members of the RPAC-Invasive Species Subcommittee and additional local experts. An overview of each document is provided below.
Purple Loosestrife A serious wetland invader, purple loosestrife was first introduced to North America in the 1800s and has spread across the continent. It reproduces prolifically by root fragments and seeds; in fact, a single mature plant can produce more than two million seeds each year. Provincial legislation requires purple loosestrife control. If left uncontrolled, this plant will spread rapidly, outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity, trapping sediments, and potentially impeding drainage.
Neogalerucella beetles, purple loosestrife’s natural predator in Europe, have been approved for use on purple loosestrife in BC, but efficacy varies with environmental conditions. It is possible to manually remove newly established infestations by pulling or digging.
Reed Canarygrass Although there is some debate about the origins of reed canarygrass in BC, local research suggests that cultivars were introduced from Europe and Asia to support agricultural conversion of wetlands
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in the early 1900s. This plant reproduces by seed and vegetatively, forming dense, persistent monocultures in wetlands, ditches, floodplains, and wet meadows.
Control of reed canarygrass is challenging, especially considering it is often found in sensitive ecosystems. Most experts agree that the best long term strategy is to plant a diversity of native species in the area that will block sunlight since reed canarygrass is shade intolerant. Some success may be possible for dense patches by covering with a material that suppresses growth such as cardboard, mulch or geotextile. Small patches can be manually removed with a shovel.
Wild Chervil Native to Europe, wild chervil spreads rapidly by both seed and plant fragments. It can outcompete native BC plants, pasture and hay crops, and is particularly damaging in riparian habitats. Wild chervil may also play a role in spreading a virus that can kill edible crops such as carrots and celery.
Pulling or digging out the entire taproot can be effective for small patches prior to flowering. Gloves should be worn during removal since wild chervil may cause skin irritation. For larger infestations, tilling or herbicide application can be effective, but both require trained staff. Care must be taken to minimize damage to the surrounding environment and all relevant laws must be followed, including municipal pesticide bylaws that may prohibit the use of certain herbicides.
Yellow Flag Iris This plant was introduced to North America from the temperate regions of Eurasia as an ornamental wetland garden plant in the early 1900s. It spreads by seed and rhizome fragmentation, tolerates freshwater, brackish, and saline environments and can withstand extended periods of drought. It has been known to outcompete native cattails, sedges, and rushes, reducing habitat for birds, fish, and amphibian species. Provincial legislation requires yellow flag iris control.
Small patches of yellow flag iris can be removed by hand and cutting works in some aquatic sites. Covering the plants with a barrier/matting has also provided effective control in several cases.
Prevention and Disposal As with all invasive species, prevention (e.g., using invasive species-free soil, planting non-invasive plants, cleaning vehicles and equipment) is the most economical and effective way to reduce the risk of spread over the long term. These best management practice guides provide a link to a list of possible disposal facilities, but practitioners should always contact the disposal facilities beforehand to confirm the facility will accept the material. Invasive plants should not be placed in backyard composters as the temperature may not become hot enough to destroy the seeds and roots.
Climate Adaptation This set of best management practice documents features a new section on ‘Climate Adaptation’ that describes how each species may adapt as our climate changes based on their ability to withstand warmer temperatures, summer drought, warmer wetter winters, and an extended growing season.
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NEXT STEPS To increase awareness of these best practices, staff recommends circulation to member jurisdictions, as per Alternative 1.
ALTERNATIVES 1. That the MVRD Board: a) receive for information the report dated May 22, 2020, titled “Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris”; and b) direct staff to forward the Best Management Practices to member jurisdictions for information.
2. That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 22, 2022, titled “Best Management Practices for Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife, Reed Canarygrass, Wild Chervil, and Yellow Flag Iris”, and provide alternate direction to staff.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The 2019 MVRD Board-approved Regional Planning budget included $20,000 for best management practices presented in this report. Under both Alternative 1 and 2, best management practices documents have been prepared within approved budgets. Under Alternative 1, these documents will be shared with member jurisdictions.
CONCLUSION A Climate Action Committee work plan item for the second quarter of 2020, best management practices have been compiled for four additional invasive species found within the Metro Vancouver region: purple loosestrife, reed canarygrass, wild chervil, and yellow flag iris. These documents provide locally-tested technical guidance about identification, tracking, reporting, climate adaptation, effective prevention and control strategies, regulatory requirements, disposal, monitoring and restoration, as well as references and additional resources. Staff recommend Alternative 1, that the Board receive the latest invasive species best management practices documents for information, and direct staff to forward them to member jurisdictions.
References 1. Best Management Practices for Purple Loosestrife in the Metro Vancouver Region - June 2020 2. Best Management Practices for Reed Canarygrass in the Metro Vancouver Region - June 2020 3. Best Management Practices for Wild Chervil in the Metro Vancouver Region - June 2020 4. Best Management Practices for Yellow Flag Iris in the Metro Vancouver Region - June 2020
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Climate Action Committee 5.8
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Kathy Preston, Program Manager, Enforcement and Regulation Parks and Environment Department
Date: May 15, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Board Appointment of Enforcement Officer
RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board: a) pursuant to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008 and the Environmental Management Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn as an officer; and b) pursuant to section 28 of the Offence Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn for the purpose of serving summons under section 28 of the Offence Act for alleged violations under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Recent changes in staff have resulted in a need to update staff appointments as MVRD Board- designated officers under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008, the Environmental Management Act and the Offence Act. Staff recommend that the MVRD Board appoint staff accordingly.
PURPOSE To appoint a Metro Vancouver employee as a Board-designated officer.
BACKGROUND Employment status changes for Metro Vancouver environmental regulatory staff have resulted in a need to update staff appointments to ensure appropriate authority to advance air quality management goals. Section 31 of the Environmental Management Act and the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 grant authority to Board-designated officers.
ROLE OF PERMITTING AND ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Regulatory Program supports the goals of the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan by promoting compliance with air quality management bylaws and regulating the discharge of air contaminants.
Officers may enter property, inspect works, and obtain records and other information to promote compliance with the Environmental Management Act and MVRD air quality management bylaws.
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Climate Action Committee Board Appointment of Enforcement Officer Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: June 19, 2020 Page 2 of 2
The Offence Act allows regional districts to appoint bylaw enforcement officers for the purpose of serving summons for bylaw violations. Officers, if appointed for that purpose, may serve a summons in respect of alleged offences under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008.
ALTERNATIVES 1. That the MVRD Board: a) pursuant to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008 and the Environmental Management Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn as an officer; and b) pursuant to section 28 of the Offence Act: i. appoint Metro Vancouver employee Ana Nic Lochlainn for the purpose of serving summons under section 28 of the Offence Act for alleged violations under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008.
2. That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated May 15, 2020, titled “Board Appointment of Enforcement Officer” and provide alternate direction to staff.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There are no additional financial implications for expenditures as the MVRD appointee is already on staff.
CONCLUSION Recent changes in staff have resulted in a need to update staff appointments as MVRD Board- designated officers under the Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008, the Environmental Management Act and the Offence Act. Staff recommend that the MVRD Board adopt Alternative 1.
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Climate Action Committee 5.9
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Roger Quan, Director, Air Quality and Climate Change Parks and Environment Department
Date: May 20, 2020 Meeting Date: June 19, 2020
Subject: Manager’s Report
RECOMMENDATION That the Climate Action Committee receive for information the report dated May 20, 2020, titled “Manager’s Report”.
Climate Action Committee 2020 Work Plan The attachment to this report sets out the Committee’s Work Plan for 2020. The status of work program elements is indicated as pending, in progress, or complete. The listing is updated as needed to include new issues that arise, items requested by the Committee, and changes to the schedule.
Metro Vancouver’s Climate Action and Carbon Neutral Progress in 2019 As a signatory to BC’s Climate Action Charter and participant in the Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP), Metro Vancouver submitted its annual climate action report to the Province in accordance with its June 1, 2020 deadline. This report summarizes actions Metro Vancouver has taken over the past year to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapt to climate change, and quantifies Metro Vancouver’s net GHG footprint.
In 2019, Metro Vancouver achieved carbon neutrality, which is the second time the organization has done so since CARIP reporting began in 2012 (the first time was in 2015). Metro Vancouver’s net carbon footprint consists of core emissions from direct fuel use and emissions from contracted services (16,645 tonnes CO2-equivalent), which was entirely balanced by credits from projects that reduce or avoid GHG emissions. Metro Vancouver’s carbon neutral status can be attributed to a variety of GHG reduction projects from across the organization, including several avoided forest conversion projects, the use of trenchless technology for sewer pipe installation, and the ecological restoration of Burns Bog (a joint effort with the City of Delta). A significant amount of credits from the Burns Bog restoration were generated between 2012-2016, and claimed as credits on the 2019 CARIP report after they were calculated and verified earlier this year.
Metro Vancouver’s GHG reduction projects resulted in 43,986 tonnes of credits available for 2019 reporting. Metro Vancouver will be carrying forward the excess credits to the following reporting year, which is expected to help Metro Vancouver maintain carbon neutrality for the 2020 reporting year, and possibly beyond. Although Metro Vancouver achieved carbon neutrality in 2019, emissions from corporate fuel use in 2019 remain steady compared to 2018. To reduce these emissions, Metro Vancouver will continue to pursue ways to shift towards low-carbon energy sources and reduce fuel consumption.
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Metro Vancouver aims to continue to maintain its carbon neutral status, consistent with the goals set out in the Board Strategic Plan and Climate 2050, through projects to reduce corporate GHG emissions, switch to low carbon energy sources, generate renewable energy from our utility operations, and protect green spaces. Staff will bring a more detailed information report on Metro Vancouver’s climate actions and achievement of carbon neutrality to the Climate Action Committee in July 2020.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Estimate for the New Iona Island WWTP Concept At the May 15 meeting, the Climate Action Committee received a staff presentation on the concept design that has been developed for the new Iona Island wastewater treatment plant. This item provides additional information on greenhouse gas emissions and reductions associated with the new plant. The concept includes a tertiary level of liquid treatment, and is proposing to use the existing digesters for the biosolids processing. Due to the higher level of wastewater treatment compared to the current plant, more biosolids will be produced. The existing digesters will process approximately 60% of the biosolids onsite, and the remaining material will be transported offsite for further processing. Emissions associated with energy use at the new plant are expected to be approximately 8,600 tonnes of CO2-equivalent per year, from the use of natural gas and electricity to operate the plant, as well as transportation fuel associated with biosolids hauling.
The concept design will also result in substantial production of biomethane (renewable natural gas), which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the community. Biosolids digestion at the new plant will produce biogas, which will be cleaned and injected into the natural gas supply grid as biomethane. This biomethane will displace natural gas that would have been used for heating buildings, hot water supply and potentially vehicle fuel, all of which reduce greenhouse gases emissions. It is estimated that the new plant will provide a regional reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by about 9,800 tonnes CO2-equivalent per year, which is more than the 8,600 tonnes it emits. This is mainly due to the biomethane produced, but there is also a greenhouse gas reduction associated with land application of biosolids (which reduces fertilizer production). There may be additional opportunities to reduce emissions through using waste heat recovery for district heating opportunities. Overall, the new plan concept is estimated to provide a net regional greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 1,200 tonnes of CO2-equivalent per year.
Attachment Climate Action Committee 2020 Work Plan
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Climate Action Committee ATTACHMENT
Climate Action Committee 2020 Work Plan Report Date: May 20, 2020
Priorities 1st Quarter Status Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan Discussion Papers: In progress Nature and Ecosystems, Agriculture, and Waste Climate 2050 - managing Metro Vancouver’s corporate energy and GHG emissions In progress Air Quality – proposed bylaw for residential wood burning Complete Air Quality - initiate consultation on expansion of Non-Road Diesel Engine bylaw In progress SIF (Sustainability Innovation Fund) – 2020 proposals Complete SIF – results of Air Aware citizen science air quality monitoring In progress SIF – results of electric vehicle fast charger demonstration at Metro Tower III In progress Ecological Health – invasive species – outreach materials Complete Participate in environmental assessment processes as required Complete 2nd Quarter Climate 2050 – electric vehicle programs review and recommendations In progress Air Quality – 9th annual Caring for the Air report In progress Air Quality - monitoring network review and upgrades In progress Air Quality - initiate consultation on review of air quality regulatory fees In progress Air Quality – second phase of consultation on proposals for managing cannabis In progress production emissions SIF – status report on previously approved liquid waste projects In progress SIF – results of the Strata Energy Advisor pilot program and proposals for moving In progress forward SIF – design for public display of air quality monitoring data and outreach In progress strategy Ecological Health Framework – annual report In progress Ecological Health – invasive species – best management practices In progress Participate in environmental assessment processes as required In progress 3rd Quarter Climate 2050 Annual report – Metro Vancouver’s climate actions and carbon In progress neutral progress Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan – Phase I engagement results In progress Climate 2050 and Clean Air Plan – modelling to support a carbon neutral region In progress Air Quality - outreach on reducing residential wood-burning emissions In progress Air Quality – second phase of consultation on open-air burning bylaw Pending SIF – status report on previously approved regional district and water projects In progress Participate in environmental assessment processes as required Pending 4th Quarter Climate 2050 Roadmaps – Buildings, Industry, and Transportation In progress Climate 2050 – regional building emissions benchmarking program In progress Metro Vancouver’s Draft Clean Air Plan Pending
Climate Action Committee
Air Quality - initiate consultation on regulatory measures to meet ambient air Pending quality objectives for nitrogen dioxide SIF – Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Infrastructure and Buildings Policy Design In progress Guide Annual budget and 5 year financial plan Pending Ecological Health – regional ecosystem connectivity Pending Participate in environmental assessment processes as required Pending
Climate Action Committee 6.1
WE THE UNDERSIGNED DECLARE THAT:
The COVID-19 pandemic provides a once-in-a-lifetime responsibility to accelerate the change we require in Canadian cities. With a coordinated effort by the federal government, provinces, and cities, we can repair a half-century of unsustainable planning that has compromised our health, access to housing, the quality of our air, and the long-term financial viability of our cities. Within this short window, we can position Canadian cities to thrive as we embrace a “new normal” and a better “business-as-usual.” A greener, cleaner, decarbonized economy begins with our cities. To get there, we must change the way we plan and operate them. And it is within the power of our political leaders to do so.
To be clear, the measures outlined in the declaration should be considered a starting point for affecting the type of change we need in our cities, but are not a cure-all. Our current urban form has detrimental effects on new Canadians, Indigenous people, racialized populations, and lower-income workers. These groups have disproportionately suffered from the effects of homelessness and gentrification, growing racial- and class-based segregation of neighbourhoods within cities, the social and financial costs of long commutes, and disproportionate rates of working poverty in Canadian cities. To ensure that the structural trends afflicting our cities are not exacerbated or ignored, it will be critical to apply an equity lens throughout the planning and implementation of these measures and to employ population-specific interventions with more universal policy solutions.
We note also that cities are in a period of unprecedented financial uncertainty. While some of the commitments below will require a response from, and coordination with, provincial and federal governments for funding, the majority of these recommendations require a reallocation of resources and a reassessment of priorities -- away from unsustainable, inequitable, costly approaches that are not viable over the long-term -- toward sustainable, cost-efficient, future-oriented approaches. In most instances, the required policy changes can be initiated immediately by municipalities, though implementation periods will vary.
Ensuring the Responsible Use of Land: 1. Update zoning policies to allow more households to access existing neighbourhoods by permitting appropriately scaled multi-tenanted housing, co-housing, laneway housing, and other forms of “gentle density” to be built, as-of-right, alongside houses in low-rise residential neighbourhoods. 2. Commit to the creation of 15-minute neighbourhoods in which it is possible to live, work, and shop, by among other things permitting corner stores, local retail, and live-work housing, and by adding more local parks in all areas of cities. 3. Restrict short-term rentals to ensure that rental homes are not once again removed from the rental market post-COVID-19. 4. Remove all mandatory minimum parking requirements for any new building, to both signal a shift in mobility priorities, and to remove the costly burden of parking, on housing. 5. Prioritize the use of existing municipally-owned land for the creation of affordable housing that remains affordable in perpetuity, and for strategic public green space that supports increased density. 6. Enact stronger restrictions on urban sprawl, including moratoria limiting additional, auto- dependent, suburban sprawl developments.
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Climate Action Committee Accelerating the Decarbonization of our Transportation Systems: 7. Prioritize the immediate transformation of existing streets and roadways for active transportation -- both for the immediate, post-pandemic recovery period and as permanent measures -- by adding additional space for pedestrians and protected bike lanes in a contiguous ‘everywhere-to- everywhere’ network that makes cycling a safe mobility choice for every resident, in every neighbourhood. 8. Enhance bus service levels, recognizing that interim social distancing requirements will demand high levels of public transit service on existing routes, since passenger limits on buses will be required. 9. On major arterial roadways, transform curbside lanes to dedicated Bus Rapid Transit Priority Lanes, to offer a higher level of service and to incentivize public transit usage as economies transition to normal. 10. Enact an immediate and permanent moratorium on the construction and reconstruction of urban expressways, including those in process. 11. Enact congestion pricing policies, and dedicate 100% of the revenues to public transportation expansion. 12. Mandate a conversion timetable stipulating that 100% of taxi and ride-sharing vehicles will be electric. 13. Commit to fully electrify public bus fleets. 14. Require the full electrification of public sector vehicular fleets (this can be achieved through a mass joint Climate Mayors Purchasing Collective).
Embracing Sustainability in our Built and Natural Environments: 15. Require that all new government-owned buildings (federal, provincial, and municipal) be carbon neutral. 16. End the dumping of untreated sewage outflows into lakes, streams, and waterways. 17. Enact a funded, detailed plan to achieve a 40% urban tree canopy. 18. Ensure 100% of municipal operations are powered by clean energy sources. 19. Require every new building in Canada built using public dollars achieves LEED status. 20. Require all new large office buildings to be emissions-free.
We cannot return to the old normal, when we already faced massive challenges and urgent crises. This declaration should be considered a starting point: a series of clear and distinct actions that Canadian municipalities can take right now to address the sustainability, mobility, and equity issues that the pandemic has highlighted.
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39563445 Climate Action Committee 6.2
June 8, 2020
Ref: 253874
Sav Dhaliwal, Chair Metro Vancouver 4730 Kingsway Burnaby BC V5H 0C6
Dear Chair Dhaliwal:
Thank you for your letter and enclosed report regarding the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of buildings. I apologize for the delay in responding.
As a government, we know that buildings have a direct impact on our health and well-being, and that of our environment. That is why, through CleanBC, we are working to create lower polluting, warmer, more comfortable and healthier buildings. As part of this work, we have committed to reduce GHG emissions by 40 percent by 2030, through increasing energy efficiency requirements in the BC Building Code to net-zero energy by 2032 and developing an energy code for alterations to existing buildings by 2024.
I appreciate the leadership of local and regional governments in supporting climate action through policy, program and bylaws and agree that energy efficiency in the built environment is an area where we can continue to make important gains. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing staff are currently evaluating additional options to reduce GHG emissions related to new and existing buildings, including the recommended approaches in your letter. Metro Vancouver representatives will be invited to provide further input through the Energy Step Code Council and ministry staff will follow up directly with Erik Blair, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment Department, Metro Vancouver, as requested, to seek input from Metro Vancouver.
If you or your staff would like more information about the BC Energy Step Code and ministry work on GHG emissions please contact Andrew Pape-Salmon, Executive Director, Building and Safety Standards Branch, Office of Housing and Construction Standards, by email at: [email protected] or by telephone at: 250 387-3133.
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Ministry of Municipal Affairs Office of the Minister Mailing Address: Location: and Housing PO Box 9056 Stn Prov Govt Room 310 Victoria BC V8W 9E2 Parliament Buildings Phone: 250 387-2283 Victoria BC V8V 1X4 Fax: 250 387-4312 http://www.gov.bc.ca/mah Climate Action Committee Sav Dhaliwal, Chair Page 2
Thank you again for writing.
Sincerely,
Selina Robinson Minister pc: The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Natural Resources Honourable Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Honourable George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy Andrew Pape-Salmon, Executive Director, Building and Safety Standards Branch Erik Blair, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment Department, Metro Vancouver
Climate Action Committee metrovancouver a~ SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS FOR A LIVABLE REGION
Office of the Choir Tel. 604 432-6215 Fox 604 451-6614 April 21, 2020 File: CR-12-01 Ref: RD 2020 Mar 27
The Honourable Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing PO Box 9056 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC V8W 9E2 VIA EMAIL: [email protected]
Dear Minister Robinson:
Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code
At its March 27, 2020 regular meeting, the Board of Directors of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (Metro Vancouver) adopted the following resolutions:
That the MVRD Board write a letter to the provincial Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and other appropriate provincial government ministries requesting that the Province include: a) opt-in greenhouse gas intensity performance requirements for new construction in the British Columbia Building Code; b) an option to require zero emissions space heating and hot water; and c) complementary requirements in the proposed provincial "Retrofit Code" for existing buildings.
To meet Metro Vancouver's goal of becoming a carbon neutral region by 2050, there is an urgent need to accelerate the transition of all new and existing buildings to net zero emissions in their operation. Buildings account for one quarter of the region's greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and nine percent of all nitrogen oxide emissions. In BC, most reductions to building emissions will be due to the electrification of space heat and hot water systems, complemented by design and construction that achieves very high standards of energy efficiency.
Since its introduction in 2017, the BC Energy Step Code has provided local governments with a consistent and robust set of energy efficiency standards for new construction. While these requirements provide a pathway to achieve net-zero energy new buildings by 2032, the Step Code does not directly require GHG reductions. Without a change to the BC Building Code and Step Code, it is unclear how local governments will meet their GHG targets.
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4730 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, Canada VSH OC6 I 604-432-6200 I metrovancouver.org Metro Vancouver Regional District I Greater Vancouver Water District Greater Vancouver Sewerage and Drainage District I Metro Vancouver Housing Corporation Climate Action Committee The Honourable Selina Robinson, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code Page 2 of 3
Through its Clean, Efficient Buildings Intentions Paper, the Province has signaled a willingness to explore "developing voluntary codes and standards, similar to the BC Energy Step Code, to regulate GHG emissions directly in the BC Building Code". To date, this has not been explored with local governments.
The absence of a provincial requirement or clear local government authority to set greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) limits has led many local governments in Metro Vancouver to explore, and put in place, a variety of innovative approaches to reduce the GHGI of new buildings. It is likely that many other local governments will also pursue customized approaches in order to meet their ambitious community GHG targets. This patchwork of solutions is a departure from the work that the Province and many stakeholders have accomplished with the BC Energy Step Code to create a consistent and universal approach to energy efficiency requirements. Using the proven approach of GHGI performance requirements in buildings would begin to address this issue.
Through its Zero Emissions Building Plan, which sets GHGI limits for new buildings, the City of Vancouver has seen the completion of over 2,500 low-carbon housing units that have lower heating bills, increased comfort, and better indoor air quality. The associated growth in the green building sector shows that providing a clear market signal about future requirements gives the building industry certainty on which to plan for future growth.
Electrification is a clear pathway to achieve a zero-emissions building stock in BC. Switching to clean, renewable electricity for heating and hot water in buildings would virtually eliminate GHG emissions and completely eliminate common air contaminants. Existing energy efficiency standards in the BC Energy Step Code will support this by requiring more airtight building envelopes and higher insulation values which will lower energy costs, improve indoor comfort and air quality, and unlock additional electrical capacity at the local level to support other goals such as electric vehicle charging.
The Province is in a favourable position to be able to integrate GHGI limits into the existing BC Energy Step Code model. In addition, given that the vast majority of building emissions come from the existing building stock, the Province's forthcoming "Retrofit Code" for existing buildings also presents a critical opportunity to drive down GHG emissions.
Local governments in this region will continue to play a critical role in helping the Province to achieve its Clean BC target of 40% GHG reduction for buildings by 2030. As buildings can last 50 years or more, current codes and standards will lock in GHG emissions for decades to come and necessitate future retrofits to those buildings at greater difficulty and cost for building owners, occupants and taxpayers. Enabling local governments to effectively and efficiently decarbonize buildings through clear codes and standards is fundamental to achieving our shared climate goals.
Climate Action Committee The Honourable Selina Robinson, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code Page 3 of 3
The Metro Vancouver Board would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the Province to explore the development of GHGI limits for both new and existing buildings in the region. Should you require clarification on any of the above, please have your staff contact Erik Blair, Air Quality Planner, Parks and Environment by phone at 604-436-6747 or by email at [email protected].
Yours sincerely,
Sav Dhaliwal Chair, Metro Vancouver Board
SD/NC/Eb cc: Hon. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Hon. Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Natural Resources Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Hon. George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy Hon. Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
Encl: Report dated February 26, 2020 titled "Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Code" (Doc# 37455171)
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Climate Action Committee 5.2
To: Climate Action Committee
From: Erik Blair, Air Quality Planner Parks and Environment Department
Date: February 26, 2020 Meeting Date: March 13, 2020
Subject: Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code
RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board write a letter to the provincial Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and other appropriate provincial government ministries requesting that the Province include: a) opt-in greenhouse gas intensity performance requirements for new construction in the British Columbia Building Code; b) an option to require zero emissions space heating and hot water; and c) complementary requirements in the proposed provincial “Retrofit Code” for existing buildings.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Buildings account for one quarter of regional GHG emissions, primarily through burning natural gas for space and water heating. The BC Energy Step Code, adopted by many jurisdictions in the region and across BC, establishes energy efficiency targets, but does not directly address GHG emissions reductions in new construction. This will lead to many new buildings that will require significant retrofits to become carbon neutral in the future, costing building owners time and money.
In the absence of provincial requirements, many local governments in Metro Vancouver have developed innovative approaches to reduce the GHG intensity (GHGI) of new buildings. These solutions are a departure from the consistency that the BC Energy Step Code aims to achieve. Incorporating GHGI limits into the BC Building Code can directly reduce GHG emissions at point of construction. Port Moody City Council will be submitting a UBCM resolution that calls on the Province to include GHGI for new construction in the BC Building Code.
PURPOSE To provide the Climate Action Committee with an update on local government action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new construction in the absence of a consistent provincial framework, and to propose that the MVRD Board advocate to the Province to enact GHGI requirements for new construction and retrofits to existing buildings.
BACKGROUND Under Climate 2050, Metro Vancouver has identified the need to rapidly accelerate emission reductions from new and existing buildings across the region. Buildings account for 25% of the region’s GHG emissions, and 9% of all nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx). To meet the goal of becoming a carbon neutral region by 2050, all of our buildings must be net zero carbon in their operation. This can largely happen through the electrification of a building’s space heat and hot water systems, complemented by design and construction that achieves high standards of energy performance.
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Climate Action Committee Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: March 13, 2020 Page 2 of 4
The BC Energy Step Code (ESC) is a voluntary energy efficiency standard in the BC Building Code (BCBC). While it establishes increasingly stringent energy-efficiency requirements, it does not directly address GHG emissions reductions. As a result, many new buildings under construction will require significant retrofits to become carbon neutral. The cost and burden of these future retrofits can be reduced by the introduction of greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) requirements into the BCBC.
THE CLEANBC PLAN AND BUILDING EMISSIONS The Province has committed to reducing GHG emissions by at least 40% below 2007 levels by 2030, 60% by 2040, and 80% by 2050. Released in 2018, the CleanBC Plan includes a target for GHG reduction for buildings of 40% by 2030, emphasizing the opportunity to transition buildings away from carbon-intensive fossil fuels. While the plan does not specifically outline a policy pathway to achieve the 40% target, the Province has, through its Clean, Efficient Buildings Intentions Paper signaled a willingness to explore “developing voluntary codes and standards, similar to the Energy Step Code, to regulate GHG emissions directly in the BC Building Code” [Reference 1]. To date, the Province has not explored this intent with additional stakeholder engagement, however it is clear that policies and programs that achieve GHG reductions and improve energy efficiency are consistent with commitments made by the Province and local governments.
THE BC ENERGY STEP CODE The BC Energy Step Code was introduced in April 2017 as a voluntary energy efficiency standard that local governments can adopt over and above the minimum energy performance requirements set out in the BCBC. The ESC establishes targets for increasing energy efficiency of new construction, but does not explicitly address GHG emissions reductions.
In order to better understand the potential for GHG emissions reductions from the Step Code, the Provincial Ministry of Housing and Affairs commissioned a study to explore the range of possible GHG emission reductions levels in new buildings at each step of the Step Code [Reference 2]. As demonstrated in the image above, a single family home constructed to Step 5 – the highest level of
Climate Action Committee Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: March 13, 2020 Page 3 of 4 the Step Code – that uses natural gas for heating, would achieve approximately a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a “baseline” Step 1 home heated by natural gas.
In contrast, by switching to electricity for heating, even a Step 1 home would achieve at least a 90% reduction in GHG emissions compared to the baseline, as well as eliminate common air contaminant emissions. Due to the broad availability of low carbon electricity in B.C., transitioning buildings to electric heating and hot water is a clear pathway to zero emissions homes that can be complemented by targeted incentive and rebate programs to lower any incremental costs to builders and consumers.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT APPROACHES TO REDUCE GHGs FROM BUILDINGS In the absence of a provincial requirement or clear local government authority to set GHGI limits, many local governments in Metro Vancouver have put in place a variety of innovative approaches to reduce the GHGI of new buildings. Some have adopted a “two tiered” approach where builders may voluntarily build to a lower step of the Step Code provided that they install a low carbon energy system (LCES) for heating and hot water. Other local governments are exploring the use of Development Permit Areas (DPA) as a way to introduce a LCES pathway. It is likely that many other local governments will begin to explore innovative ways to reduce GHG emissions from new buildings in order to meet their community GHG targets. This patchwork of solutions is a departure from the work that the Province and many stakeholders have done with the Step Code to create a consistent and universal approach to energy efficiency requirements. Using the proven approach of GHGI performance requirements in buildings would address this issue.
In 2016, the City of Vancouver adopted the Zero Emissions Building Plan which sets GHGI limits for new buildings. Vancouver establishes its own design and construction requirements through the Vancouver Building Bylaw, a unique authority provided under the Vancouver Charter. In four years, these GHGI requirements have led to the completion of over 2,500 low-carbon housing units in Vancouver that have lower heating bills, increased comfort, and better indoor air quality. Vancouver Council has also adopted a target to reduce the embodied carbon from new buildings by 40% by 2030.
Port Moody UCBM Resolution Supports GHGI in Buildings At its February 25, 2020, meeting, Port Moody Council adopted a UBCM resolution that calls on the Province to include GHG performance requirements for new construction in the BCBC, including a pathway to achieve carbon neutral buildings in a timeline commensurate with local and provincial government targets. In 2019, Port Moody Council submitted a similar resolution that was not endorsed by UBCM at that time due to concerns from some northern and rural communities in B.C. As a result, the revised 2020 resolution also asks the Province to liaise with communities in other regions of B.C. to ensure that the unique circumstances of northern and rural communities are understood. This resolution will be submitted to the Local Mainland Local Government Association to be included in the resolution session at their annual conference on May 6-8, 2020. The resolution, as passed by Port Moody Council, was not available at time of writing of this report, but will be provided to the Committee as an information item at a later date.
RETROFIT CODE FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS Action is currently focused largely on addressing GHG emissions for new buildings, however the vast majority of emissions reductions in the buildings sector will be through low carbon retrofits to existing
Climate Action Committee Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code Climate Action Committee Regular Meeting Date: March 13, 2020 Page 4 of 4
buildings. In response to this, the Province has started a process to develop and implement a retrofit code for existing buildings, which is scheduled to be completed by 2024. Similar to the Step Code, the retrofit code is a critical opportunity to drive greenhouse gas emission reductions in existing buildings through increased electrification of space and water heating. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has indicated that engagement on this new code will begin sometime in 2020.
ALTERNATIVES 1. That the MVRD Board write a letter to the provincial Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and other appropriate provincial government ministries requesting that the Province include: a) opt in greenhouse gas intensity performance requirements for new construction in the British Columbia Building Code; b) an option to require zero emissions space heating and hot water; and c) complementary requirements in the proposed provincial “Retrofit Code” for existing buildings.
2. That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated February 26, 2020, titled “Addressing the Greenhouse Gas Intensity of Buildings in the BC Building Code”.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There are no financial implications associated with Alternative 1 in this report.
CONCLUSION Metro Vancouver and a growing number of its member municipalities have committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, signaling the urgent need to drastically reduce emissions from new and existing buildings. While the Province has taken a leadership role in developing the BC Energy Step Code, it does not explicitly address GHG emissions. As buildings can last 50 years or more, and are the source of one quarter of our regional GHG emissions, failing to limit emissions from new construction will necessitate retrofits to those new buildings in the future at greater difficulty and cost for building owners, occupants, and taxpayers. Staff recommend Alternative 1, that the Board write to appropriate provincial ministries to request that an effective and consistent greenhouse gas intensity framework for new and existing buildings be put in place, in order for local and provincial governments to achieve our reduction targets.
References 1. Province of British Columbia, “Clean, Efficient Buildings Intentions Paper” 2. Province of British Columbia, “Implications of the BC Energy Step Code on GHG Emissions”
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