On July 23rd, a shocking last-minute decision was made by City Council to reverse Vancouver’s climate progress and allow for an increase in pollution from new buildings.
While Vancouver’s building bylaws are backed by climate science, this dangerous new rollback is driven by pressure from the gas industry.
The amendment was brought forward by City Councillor Brian Montague – yes, the very same Councillor that was recently caught meeting with a FortisBC lobbyist.
This abrupt move to relax the rules around heating sources in new buildings rescinds decades of essential progress in a city that’s known for its climate leadership. Vancouver would also be the first city in Canada to voluntarily re-introduce a known pollutant back into people’s homes, setting a dangerous precedent.
Gas burned in buildings is responsible for close to 60% of Vancouver’s climate pollution, whereas electric power from heat pumps leads to 16 times less pollution. It's clear electricity is far more efficient, and more affordable.
Luckily, this is not a done deal and another vote has been set for November 26th. If enough of us raise our voice by calling on Vancouver City Council to immediately reverse this short-sighted move, we can defend this climate bylaw from gas industry lobbyists – and prevent pollution on a massive scale.
Will you send a letter to Vancouver City Council telling them to reverse this amendment that weakens climate rules for new buildings?
