BC Energy Step Code and Zero Carbon Step Code

A Best Practices Guide for Local Governments

British Columbia has set ambitious objectives to combat climate change in the construction sector. The province aims for all newly constructed buildings to have zero operational carbon emissions by 2030 and for all new structures to be ready for net-zero energy by 2032. The BC Energy Step Code and the Zero Carbon Step Code are instrumental in reaching these targets. Over the next ten years, the province will methodically integrate these step codes into the foundational BC Building Code, with transitional requirements anticipated in 2024, 2027, and 2030.

The updated BC Step Code Best Practices Guide for Local Governments is a comprehensive revision of the initial 2018 version. This guide has been enriched by contributions from key stakeholders in the building industry, including industry professionals, municipal authorities, utility companies, and housing agencies. It provides fresh insights on the Zero Carbon Step Code and refined best practices derived from extensive practical experience. Nevertheless, the core principles established by the Step Code Council during its initial launch remain relevant: providing early notification, implementing incremental changes, maintaining a clear schedule, and engaging in proactive dialogue and education are all essential for a successful and seamless transition in the market.

The State of Climate Action in Canadian Municipalities

A report and database from the Municipal Net-Zero Action Research Partnership (N-ZAP)

Municipalities in Canada are essential contributors to the nation’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving the objectives set at local, provincial, and national levels. Their role is crucial in the worldwide effort to cap the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C, a goal established by the 2015 Paris Agreement. The proactive participation of these municipalities in the design, execution, and tracking of climate-related measures is not only vital for cutting down local emissions but also for promoting a future that is both sustainable and low in carbon emissions.

The recent database and study released by the Municipal Net-Zero Action Research Partnership (N-ZAP) draw on survey responses from 256 Canadian municipalities spanning all 10 provinces, which together account for roughly 69.5 percent of the nation’s populace. These municipalities have provided key data concerning their strategies and actions for climate change, including greenhouse gas inventories, policy measures, and initiatives for engaging stakeholders.

The survey results reveal that municipal governments are actively taking significant steps to combat climate change. However, the report also points out that there is room for improvement. Enhancing the speed of interventions, setting more ambitious goals, and improving the effectiveness of local actions are necessary to bolster the nationwide efforts to address climate change.

Partners for Climate Protection Program

The Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program is a network of Canadian municipalities that have committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and acting on climate change. Delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the PCP program provides tools and resources to support municipalities in achieving their emissions reduction targets.

This insights report details real examples of how Canadian municipalities are leading the charge on climate action. Read on the discover how the PCP program is supporting innovative climate action initiatives in municipalities of all sizes.

National State of Professional Workforce Knowledge and Skills to Action Climate Change Adaptation Survey (2023) Final Report

Earnscliffe Strategy Group conducted research for Natural Resources Canada to assess the preparedness of professionals in fields like engineering, planning, accounting, and landscape architecture to integrate climate change considerations into their work.

The National Adaptation Strategy emphasizes the importance of a skilled workforce in building climate-resilient communities and economies. The research aimed to identify gaps in knowledge and skills among these professionals, highlight training needs, and inform strategies for developing a skilled workforce.

The findings will help design climate change adaptation programs, understand the current labor market context, and target resources to create a diverse and inclusive workforce capable of addressing climate change across various sectors, including natural resources.

Promoting Cycling for Everyone as a Daily Transport Mode

PRESTO was a project of the EU’s Intelligent Energy Europe Programme funded through the Executive Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (EACI) to promote cycling for everyone as a daily transport mode. PRESTO
activities ran from May 2009 to January 2012 and focused on the three pillars:

  1. Improved infrastructure planning
  2. Targeted promotion to encourage the use of bicycles
  3. Pedelecs

Banking on Green A Look at How Green Infrastructure Can Save Municipalities Money and Provide Economic Benefits Community-wide.

The Banking on Green report focuses on the economic impacts caused by polluted urban runoff, also known as “stormwater,” and the co-benefits of energy reduction, flood mitigation, and improved public health outcomes. The report provides case studies and examples which highlight instances of how green infrastructure can provide cost-effective adaptation solutions. Green Infrastructure (GI) can help increase energy efficiency with green roofs and reduce heating and cooling costs. Additionally, GI practices that capture, infiltrate, and reuse rainwater can reduce the energy needed to pump and treat drinking water and wastewater.

Adapting to Urban Heat: A Tool Kit for Local Governments

Adapting to Urban Heat: A Tool Kit for Local Governments is designed to help local governments reduce the effects of increased heat on their communities and citizens.  The report provides an analytic tool for policy makers to consider a combination of four built-environment changes (cool roofs, green roofs, cool pavements, and urban forestry), providing clear criteria for selecting among these approaches. It also examines the roles government can play in pursuing these changes: shaping government’s own operations, mandating or providing incentives for private choices, and engaging in public education.

Partners for Climate Protection

The Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program is a network of more than 160 Canadian municipal governments that have committed to reducing greenhouse gases and acting on climate change.

PCP is a partnership between the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability. It is the Canadian component of the international Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) program. PCP receives financial support from FCM’s Green Municipal Fund (GMF), which is managed by the FCM Centre for Sustainable Community Development.

PCP offers:

  • A plan: PCP’s five-milestone framework is a proven municipal strategy to cut GHGs.
  • Resources: PCP members have access to useful resources and information, including case studies, templates, technical assistance and newsletters.
  • Networking: PCP offers valuable opportunities to share experiences with more than 150 participating municipalities, and with an international network of municipal governments.

Eligibility/Deadline:

  • Canadian municipal governments.
  • Join through a resolution at council.