“Asset management usually commences after something is built. The challenge is to think about what asset management entails BEFORE the asset is built. Cost-avoidance is a driver for this ‘new business as usual’. This paradigm-shift starts with land use and watershed-based planning, to determine what services can be provided affordably,” states Glen Brown.
“The workshop provided a timely opportunity to preview several new modules, in particular the Climate Change Module. In doing so, the audience reaction served as a good litmus test of how others are likely to respond in the coming weeks and months as we ramp up our rollout,” stated Ted van der Gulik.
“Embedded in the tool is a Level-of-Service methodology. This provides the means to quickly and efficiently identify weak links in a drainage system. The methodology evaluates the impacts of a changing climate, as well as changes in land development density,” explains Jim Dumont.
“A threshold may already have been crossed, so that major floods in the Midwest perhaps now should no longer be considered purely natural disasters but instead mixed natural/unnatural disasters. And if emissions keep going up, the forecast is for more extreme storms in the region,” stated Stephen Saunders.
“The Green City Clean Waters Plan is our proposal to revitalize our rivers and streams by managing stormwater in a way that provides multiple benefits. It will result in clean and beautiful waterways, a healthier environment and increased community value,” said Mayor Michale Nutter.
“Green infrastructure practices offers a potential strategy for reducing the flood impacts of climate change. Green infrastructure relies on runoff management measures that seek to control rainwater volume at the source by reducing imperviousness and retaining, infiltrating and reusing rainwater,” states Chris Jensen.
In 2008, the Province amended the Local Government Act to include three DPA purposes for climate action. According to Ida Chong, the Guide was created to help local governments make strategic choices about how to effectively use DPAs to promote energy conservation, water conservation, and GHG emissions reduction. The Guide describes the legislative authority for DPAs for climate action. It identifies considerations for local governments that are undertaking a DPA for climate action; and presents examples of DPA strategies.
“With the findings of this report in mind, the Royal Horticultural Society will continue to work closely with gardeners, horticultural trade and horticultural researchers to minimise potential negative impacts and ensure that gardeners get the most out of their gardens without ‘costing the Earth’,” stated Dr. Tijana Blanusa.
