While the international climate conference (COP27) in Egypt ended with mixed results, the world is already turning to Montreal, where we will gather in December to agree on a new framework on the protection of biodiversity at the UN conference (COP15). To accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gases and the protection of nature, we call to put municipalities at the heart of the solutions!
The two most important environmental crises of our time, climate change and the erosion of biodiversity, are interrelated. It is therefore necessary to act on these two fronts to obtain satisfactory results. Land use planning is one of the main levers to achieve this.
Consider the integration of natural infrastructure, which contributes in particular to coping with floods and heat islands, in addition to purifying air and water. Consider the consolidation of existing neighborhoods to provide housing without encroaching on natural environments and agricultural land. On a large scale, nature-based solutions can also help mitigate GHG emissions.
All that is land use planning and concrete solutions to major environmental crises.
It must be recognized that the way in which our cities have developed in recent decades is one of the causes of environmental degradation. In Quebec, as elsewhere, urban sprawl is a scourge for natural environments, in addition to condemning households to energy-intensive modes of travel.
The accelerator role of municipalities
Last spring, a report by international experts on the climate (IPCC) put forward that the transformation of cities is a priority, in particular to meet the objectives of reducing polluting emissions from buildings and transport. Then, during COP27, three summary reports1 addressed to “urban decision-makers” have been made public. It asserts that it is imperative to mobilize local actors to accelerate climate action.
The ability of municipalities to innovate is undeniable. In Quebec, there are many municipal initiatives in terms of sustainable mobility, decarbonization of buildings, management of residual materials, production of renewable energy and conservation of natural environments.
By daring to act, cities arouse emulation and can greatly contribute to changing the legal and regulatory framework of higher levels.
In order to have free rein to protect natural environments, we will benefit from transforming municipal taxation, as was once again raised during the last Quebec election campaign. It is also a priority to invest in public and active transportation infrastructure in all regions, since their use is closely linked to the achievement of greenhouse gas reduction targets.
Emulation can also be seen in different forms internationally. For example, as part of COP15, municipalities around the world will be able to subscribe to the Montreal Commitment2 aimed at protecting biodiversity.
For land use planning that respects ecosystems
It remains essential to act beyond municipal borders. Last June, the Quebec government adopted the strategic vision of the National Policy on Architecture and Land Use Planning (PNAAT). For several years, several towns and villages, with the support of civil society, have been calling for a reform of the planning framework so that, in particular, territorial development takes place with respect for ecosystems.
An implementation plan is planned for the winter of 2023. This plan will aim in particular to “support the creation of quality, complete and sustainable living environments, strengthen the preservation of natural environments and agricultural land as well as the fight against climatic changes “. Major investments in support of the municipal sector will be necessary to change course and create sustainable living environments, while respecting the capacity of ecosystems throughout Quebec. In the medium term, the contribution of the federal government will also be welcome.
As COP15 approaches on biological diversity, we reiterate that the solution to the climate and biodiversity crises depends in large part on the transformation of municipalities. Let’s make it a priority!
Co-signatories: Doreen Assaad, Mayor of Brossard; Évelyne Beaudin, Mayor of Sherbrooke; France Bélisle, Mayor of Gatineau; Julie Bourdon, Mayor of Granby; Marc Bourcier, Mayor of Saint-Jérôme; Stéphane Boyer, Mayor of Laval; Guy Caron, Mayor of Rimouski; Sébastien Couture, Mayor of Stoneham; Geneviève Dubois, Mayor of Nicolet; Catherine Fournier, Mayor of Longueuil; Philippe Guilbert, Mayor of Trois-Pistoles; Alexandra Labbé, Mayor of Chambly; Stéphanie Lacoste, Mayor of Drummondville; Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Quebec; Sébastien Marcil, mayor of Saint-Roch-de-l’Achigan; Philippe Pagé, mayor of Saint-Camille; Isabelle Perreault, Mayor of Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez; Mathieu Traversy, Mayor of Terrebonne