Evaluating the impact of future housing development in the City of Vernon by modeling Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

The City of Vernons Climate Action Plan (CAP) aligns with British Columbias CleanBC Roadmap 2030, aiming for significant GHG reductions by the year 2050. With an expected population increase of 20,000 by 2045, Vernons updated Housing Action Plan (HAP) must analyze the GHG impacts of new housing developments to meet CAP targets while balancing affordability. This research aims to develop a framework to assess GHG emissions from future housing developments in Vernon using a life cycle thinking approach. The objectives include conducting a literature review, mapping future scenarios, evaluating environmental and financial impacts, and providing a comparative analysis to guide sustainable and affordable housing development. The methodology involves a comprehensive literature review, scenario development, environmental impact analysis using life cycle assessment (LCA), and a comparative evaluation of different development scenarios. This research will inform Vernons strategic planning to mitigate climate change impacts, advance the BC Step Code commitments, and create resilient communities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rehan Sadiq;Kasun Hewage

Student:

Partner:

The City of Vernon

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Public administration

University:

The University of British Columbia - Okanagan

Program: