Energy and emissions reduction through local municipal planning tools in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe

Municipalities across Canada have declared climate emergencies but are they able to deliver solutions and make change in their communities? What is the role of municipal land use planning tools, such as zoning, green performance standards, and urban design guidelines? Which tools are poised to have the highest impact? Climate change policies related to energy and emissions reductions are now included in virtually all comprehensive municipal plans. The purpose of this research is to understand how policies set out in community climate action plans are going to be implemented. What is the role of municipal land use planning tools, such as official plans, zoning, green performance standards, and urban design guidelines? Which tools are poised to have the highest impact? This research will help Hemson Consulting Ltd. in providing the best support for Canadian municipalities in. Municipalities in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe will be used a case study of emerging planning tools delivering energy and emissions reductions to help mitigate climate change in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Laura Taylor

Student:

Chinoye Sunny

Partner:

Ontario Professional Planners Institute

Discipline:

Environmental sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

York University