Reflections from 2023 Climate Caucus Summit
SSG (Sustainability Solutions Group)
Decarbonized, equitable, healthy communities for everyone.
We continue on a roll of inspiration as we tumble into February. Margaret Mead’s often quoted turn of phrase about the change that can be wrought by a “small group of thoughtful, committed citizens” was evident at the 2023 Climate Caucus Summit held on February 6 in Richmond, BC.?
Started by a handful of Canadian councillors struggling with heavy questions on making climate action a reality for their municipalities and regional districts, the network now brings together over 600 local elected officials from across Canada. It has also? created a database of grants and other supports, a policy and resources library to assist in drafting and implementing climate action, and an “Ask Anything” service to help elected officials navigate tools for climate action.?
Throughout #Summit23, we were heartened by the conversations around tough challenges including how to incentivize building retrofits, transitioning to active modes of transportation and more.?
One key takeaway: climate action must be communicated in a way that resonates with peoples’ values. According to keynote speaker Andrea Reimer–a former City of Vancouver councillor who spearheaded efforts that helped Vancouver become one of the greenest cities in the world—connecting climate action with peoples’ values to create change.?
Another key takeaway came from former Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson, who delivered a keynote about his work on climate adaptation at the Co-operators, which has named climate resilience as a top strategic priority. He explained how climate adaptation projects can increase financial security for Canadians by reducing the chances their homes and communities will be affected by hazards like floods and wildfires. He has been inspired to take up this work, in part, because of his own experiences watching floods and wildfires wreak havoc in Alberta.?
The talks, as well as discussions with other attendees, were reenergizing and inspiring. We’re looking forward to applying the insights to our work in 2023.