Low Carbon Colwood
Colwood is taking action to address and protect the community from the risks of climate change. In 2019 Council declared a Climate Emergency in response to the urgent need to reduce global warming and adapt to a changing climate. See below for information about climate action in Colwood.
Colwood recently finalized the Climate Action Plan, taking an integrated approach to:
- climate mitigation (reducing emissions)
- adaptation (adapting to thrive in a changing climate)
- community co-benefits
Climate Action Pathways
The following are key pathways of climate action for Colwood. Learn more about what Colwood is doing, how you can be involved, and priority climate actions for Colwood residents.
Municipal Leadership
Colwood continues to take leadership action to reduce emissions and adapt to the changing climate. Visit our Municipal Climate Leadership webpage for more information about corporate initiatives and climate support for the community. Read more about Municipal Leadership
Sustainable Transportation
Transportation is the largest source of GHG emissions in Colwood. This is one of our highest priority areas for climate action. Find out more on the Sustainable Transportation webpage, including Colwood investments and initiatives for active transportation, electrifying the Colwood fleet, and information for residents on electric vehicles (including resources, rebates and charging stations).Read more about Sustainable Transportation
Sustainable Buildings & Infrastructure
Colwood is working to support climate action through sustainable new buildings and retrofitting existing buildings for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources (e.g. heat pumps). Find out more on the Sustainable Buildings & Infrastructure webpage, including new requirements under the BC Energy Step Code, the Home Energy Navigator Program, and Solar Colwood. Read more about Sustainable Buildings & Infrastructure
Biodiversity & Nature-Based Solutions
Biodiversity loss and climate change are interconnected crises. Learn more about biodiversity in Colwood and nature-based solutions for climate action and other co-benefits on this new webpage. Current initiatives include an Urban Forest Strategy, Natural Asset inventory, and waterfront adaptation/ stewardship planning. Read more about Biodiversity & Nature-based Solutions
Food & Zero Waste
Colwood is working to reduce the impacts of waste through reduced consumption, zero waste, and supporting a circular economy. Working with partners to divert compostable organic waste and paper from the landfill, reduce emissions from waste, and increase locally grown and consumed foods are a few objectives Colwood is striving for. Learn about the Community Garden, Colwood's Branch Drop Off, and waste options for our region.
Community Well Being & Eco-Innovation
Colwood is a community of climate champions.
- Check out the Colwood Good Neighbours program to find out how you can lead or support climate action in your neighbourhood
- Learn more about Royal Roads University climate action
- More community climate action to come!