For full background visit the Vancouver EcoDensity Planning Initiative online consultation site.
What is EcoDensity
EcoDensity is a concept currently being discussed with the Vancouver community. In brief, EcoDensity is an acknowledgement that high quality and strategically located density can make Vancouver more sustainable, livable and affordable. (more)
Essentially, it is the most effective step a city can take to reduce the human footprint upon the environment.
EcoDensity: What is Next?
On November 27, 2007, Council received a staff report, “Next Stage of EcoDensity Public Consultation: Draft Charter and Draft Initial Actions.”
Council referred the draft EcoDensity Charter and draft Initial Actions, plus five additional items to further consultation. A number of community workshops are being held in January and February 2008 where you can:
- Learn more about the draft Charter and draft Initial Actions
- Hear what others are thinking
- Submit your comments to City Council through a feedback form
NEW PDF Download the Guide to EcoDensity Draft Charter & Draft Initial Actions (327 kb)
Visit City of Vancouver, EcoDensity: What’s Next? for workshop dates and more detailed information.
What are we hearing?
Starting in Fall 2006, the City sought input on EcoDensity in one of our boldest consultation processes to date. Over 3,000 ideas, comments and suggestions were collected at events such as the EcoDensity Fair, the Community Conversation and the EcoDensity Forum. Below is a sample of what we’ve heard.
EcoDensity Top 10 Things We’ve Heard
- The environment is important – many people are optimistic about how density can help improve the environment.
- There is a wide interest in new housing types and locations (e.g. infill cottages in backyards; housing around Neighbourhood Centres; etc)
- There needs to be ample community involvement in detailed decision-making.
- The City should allow more green technology, or even require it.
- The City should reduce barriers and create incentives for more sustainable development.
- Amenities must accompany density in order to ensure Vancouver is accessible and liveable.
- More and better sustainable transportation options are needed (transit, cycling and walking opportunities).
- Development cannot just be for developers’ benefit.
- Affordability must be planned to match EcoDensity, and many people are still not sure how EcoDensity can help improve affordability.
- The City should show leadership and courage in its actions.