FCM and Federal Government Invest in Urban Sustainability

Across Canada, people are experiencing the impacts of climate change, from more frequent and severe heatwaves to more intense wildfires and flooding. That's why the Government of Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) are investing in smart and sustainable solutions to help local communities reduce emissions and build resilience.

On May 10th, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced more than $1.4 million through the Green Municipal Fund to support 16 local initiatives across Quebec. These projects will help municipalities reduce emissions and contribute to achieving Canada's goal of net-zero by 2050.

"By investing in low-carbon solutions in cities across Quebec, we’re giving communities the tools they need to fight climate change and build prosperous, sustainable economies. Our actions are inspiring communities to follow in our footsteps and join the movement to protect the environment. Urban renewable energy opportunities provide pathways for Canadian cities to follow for a net-zero emissions future," the federal Minister of Environment stated in a press release.

The funding will support a variety of projects aimed at increasing energy efficiency and sustainability in key areas such as housing, transportation, and municipal buildings and land use.

Scott Pearce, the current interim FCM President stated, "Whether big or small, communities in the Montreal region, in Quebec and beyond are at the heart of climate action, and they’re showing real leadership at a time when we need it the most.

"FCM’s Green Municipal Fund, together with municipalities, local partners and the federal government, is helping move the country toward Canada’s climate goals. We are on the path to net zero, and only together can we find smart and sustainable solutions," Pearce added.

Among the projects funded are studies to explore the feasibility of energy recovery loops and electrifying vehicle fleets, pilot projects to test electric vehicles and energy-efficient buildings, and ongoing work to rehabilitate heritage buildings while improving their energy efficiency.

The City of Candiac is receiving $254,750 for two studies. The first study will examine the feasibility of an energy recovery loop that could share heating and cooling between industrial buildings and municipal and residential buildings. The second study will explore several pathways to reduce greenhouse emissions at four municipal buildings.

The City of Varennes is receiving $255,000 for a pilot project to test the performance of electric pickup vehicles. The project builds on the city's efforts to decarbonize its transportation systems and reduce emissions from its fleet.

The YWCA of Montreal is receiving $175,000 to conduct a feasibility study for energy efficiency measures targeting a net-zero-energy-ready, 96-unit affordable housing building for women in need. The project aims to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while also providing safe, affordable housing for vulnerable women.

The City of Joliette is receiving $43,625 to examine the feasibility of a total or partial electrification of its fleet of approximately 60 vehicles and to develop an asset management strategy, policy, and governance framework. The project aims to reduce emissions from the city's fleet while also improving asset management practices.

The Center for Contemporary Arts of Quebec and the City of Sorel-Tracy are receiving $78,200 for ongoing work to rehabilitate two municipally owned buildings located along the Richelieu River. The projects will explore ways to decontaminate the site while also studying ways to improve the heritage buildings' energy efficiency.

The funding is part of the Green Municipal Fund (GMF), which is administered by FCM and funded through an endowment by the Government of Canada.

GMF helps local partners switch to sustainable practices more quickly by giving them the tools they need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build sustainable, prosperous communities.