3.6%
Key Driver
6. Employ nature-based solutions
As Kelowna continues to grow and becomes more densely populated, the cooling benefits of urban trees, as well as parks and urban greenspaces will be amplified.
Contribution to 2030 Emissions Target
Equity Considerations
• Incorporate traditional knowledge in solutions/actions (e.g., through collaboration with traditional knowledge keepers/sylix nation)
• Ensuring that green infrastructure is not just concentrated in wealthier areas but is also present in underserved or marginalized communities to provide equal environmental and health benefits. For example, targeting tree canopy expansion to areas of low tree equity (areas with low tree canopy and higher social vulnerabilities) is one way to help populations who may be more susceptible to extreme heat.
• Green infrastructure should be accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or socio-economic status. This includes designing parks, green spaces, and walking trails that are wheelchair accessible and have amenities for various age groups and abilities.Co-Benefits
- Improved health
- Improved livability
- Improved air quality
- More trees and greenspace
- Enhanced natural areas
Climate Hazards Addressed
- Heat
- Cold
- Wildfire
- Flood
- Landslide
- Invasive species
Strategies
N1. Protect and restore natural systems providing ecosystem services to reduce climate hazard risk
Kelowna will continue to restore shorelines, including along the lake, and along streams, to reduce potential damages from flooding, and to ensure these systems are healthy enough to absorb floodwaters.
N2. Utilize green infrastructure to improve climate resilience
To increase the greenspace to help manage stormwater, overland flooding, and heat, and drought, green infrastructure networks will be encouraged on private properties, and where new development is happening.
N3. Inventory, assess and monitor ecosystems and green infrastructure
Evaluating and quantifying ecosystem services will allow the City to track their contribution to climate change management. Monitoring invasive species and sensitive ecosystems will help the City prioritize actions.