The Town of Gibsons has extended the public engagement deadline for its Low Carbon Resilience Climate Action Plan, giving residents an additional week to share their input on a new approach to climate planning.
Originally set to close on May 30, the community survey at gibsons.ca/lcrcap will remain open until June 6, allowing more public participation in shaping the town's climate future.
The Low Carbon Resilience Climate Action Plan represents a shift in climate planning, integrating mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation strategies to help the community adjust to changing climate conditions, said a press release.
This approach, termed "Low Carbon Resilience" by Simon Fraser University's Action on Climate Team, goes beyond traditional climate plans that have typically focused primarily on emissions reduction, explained Michelle Lewis, natural asset technician.
"It's not just about greenhouse gas emissions reduction or building retrofits," Lewis told Coast Reporter. "We're looking at all the adaptation pieces—how we're going to adapt to sea level rise and other climate impacts while building community resilience."
The plan will encompass the entire watershed area, extending beyond Gibsons proper to include portions of the Regional District up to Mount Elphinstone, making it relevant to a broader community.
Developed in partnership with the Community Energy Association, the plan is being guided by a Low Carbon Resilience Advisory Team comprising representatives from diverse community groups, including youth, seniors, and the Squamish Nation.
"We've been going down this rabbit hole of what [engaging with equity-deserving groups] actually means," noted Lewis. "Are we actually doing that in our work, or are we just saying that we're doing it?"
Mayor Silas White emphasized the plan's significance in the release, stating that "Gibsons has long been recognized as a leader in climate action practices and planning. This Plan represents the next big step—integrating climate science, community input, and local leadership into a practical roadmap to build resilience for our town."
The strategy will address transportation, buildings, natural asset management, and risk reduction, while fostering equitable climate solutions, said the release.
Consultation is available for residents or groups interested in more detailed discussions about the plan. Lewis encourages anyone with questions or specific concerns to reach out directly.
Final recommendations from the Low Carbon Resilience Climate Action Plan will be presented to Gibsons council in late 2025, marking what aims to be a new chapter in the community's climate leadership.
Jordan Copp is the Coast Reporter’s civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
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