Comox Valley Regional District has approved a new climate action strategy aimed at reducing emissions and preparing communities for the impacts of climate change.
The strategy was approved by the regional district board Jan. 27 and is intended to improve daily life while protecting places valued by residents of the Comox Valley.
“The Climate Action Strategy focuses on practical and structural actions to prepare residents for a changing climate, adapt our community to reduce risk from climate-related disasters, protect the places we love and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to make the Comox Valley a more sustainable and resilient place for residents and visitors alike,” board chair Will Cole-Hamilton said.
The strategy will guide regional district policies and actions related to climate change, focusing on mitigation, adaptation and resilience building.
The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while protecting essential services and maintaining parks, roads and community spaces as weather patterns change.
One project tied to the strategy is the Dyke Road Park Coastal Resiliency Project, which is intended to protect sensitive shoreline habitat while creating a safer and more accessible pathway for the community.
The regional district’s fire services will also purchase 160 WASP wildfire kits for residents in areas at high wildfire risk to provide additional protection for rural homes.
Officials said the strategy builds on existing projects and was developed over two years by local government staff, environmental groups, community partners and First Nations who were invited to provide input through focus sessions.
The strategy includes 70 actions and can be read here.
