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WCEL
> Issues > Urban Growth and
Development
Smart growth. Easy to say, hard to achieve. With one of the highest growth rates in Canada, BC is an important
laboratory for sustainability and the impact of urban development on livability and our natural environment. Smart growth refers to urban development approaches that are environmentally, socially and fiscally responsible. It means less urban sprawl, more compact vibrant communities, more affordable housing, sustainable transportation systems, and protecting the natural systems that drain and filter urban run-off.
Green Bylaws
West Coast's innovative Sustainable Urban Land Use program is developing practical ways to change municipal regulation and foster sustainable communities. Working with municipal officials, citizens and business groups West Coast has developed a Smart Bylaws Guide that will help community groups and municipalities rewrite their bylaws and create greener, more liveable and more affordable communities. We are also working with local governments to reform their bylaws, and working with the Province to remove barriers to green buildings and green communities.
Publications
Wetland protection
Wetlands are often amongst the most environmentally significant endangered lands in urban areas. For example, the depletion of BC's coho salmon runs can be traced to habitat destruction in the Lower Mainland and on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island.
Because of the special importance of these lands, West Coast has paid extra attention to the laws and regulations that protect them, working hard to pass tough standards like those found in the Streamside Protection Regulations. West Coast also provides a guide to wetland protection for community groups and citizens.
Publications
Smart Growth Publications
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