Vancouver, BC. : Simon Fraser University has been selected by the federal government to establish an urban climate centre in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, through a $22-million federal investment.
Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, on behalf of the Seamus O’Regan Jr., Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, announced that Simon Fraser University’s Renewable Cities program will launch the Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3) Innovation Centre in Vancouver — one of seven centres across Canada that will help unlock the full emissions reduction potential of low-carbon innovations while improving public health and creating local jobs.
Natural Resrouces Canada said in a statement: “In communities across the country, Canadians are feeling the impacts of climate change. By investing in new technologies and projects that reduce pollution and make our communities more resilient to climate change, we can create good, middle-class jobs and help Canadian companies compete in the transition to a low-carbon economy. This commitment is more important than ever as we plan our recovery from the COVID-19 crisis”
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fundis serving as the national office for the LC3 centers. Announced in Budget 2019, LC3 is part of Canada’s $1.01-billion plan to make communities more energy-efficient.
This initiative is using federal investments in partnership with private investors, public agencies, utilities, non-profit organizations and other levels of government to build long-term, low-carbon solutions.
It is creating a network across Canada that supports local community action to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Canada’s energy efficiency sector accounted for more than 436,000 jobs in 2018, with an annual projected growth of eight percent. Investments like these are helping this sector grow faster, creating a better future for Canadians.
“The government continues to support smarter energy initiatives that build a healthier and cleaner future while also creating new jobs and economic growth for all Canadians, the Ministry statement added. Seamus O’Regan Jr. said: “An urban climate centre in Vancouver will support energy efficiency, grow our economy, help save Canadians money, and create jobs.”
Jonathan Wilkinson added: “Canadians want cleaner air and cleaner water for their children
and grandchildren. The research and collaboration that will take place at the Metro Vancouver LC3 Centre will help deliver just that while creating good jobs here in Vancouver, fighting climate change and protecting our planet.”
Catherine McKenna, Canada’s Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, said: “Cities play a key role in tackling climate change. The Government of Canada is helping to support urban climate solutions such as building retrofits and electric vehicles. Local solutions to local challenges will result in better jobs, more inclusive communities and practical solutions to climate change.”