With climate change, local governments across Canada face growing risks to critical infrastructure, affecting their ability to deliver sustainable community services. Climate change is also negatively impacting communities’ health, well-being, and socio-cultural networks. Deeply committed to serving municipal governments and their communities, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) recognizes the profound inequities that exist in climate action spaces and environmental protection efforts. We recognize that equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) practices are integral to our ongoing learning process.
How can professional planners act on climate change, address vulnerable infrastructure, and provide equitable solutions? FCM’s Municipal Asset Management Program team has convened a panel of planners, asset management practitioners, and municipal staff to present their perspectives and lessons learned on “operationalizing” sustainability. We will explore the concepts of integrating climate change into asset management and how/where it intersects with equity, diversity, and inclusion. We will hear from planners who are leading the charge on climate change and asset management, as well as professionals applying those best practices within their organizations. Attendees will be invited to share their experiences and perspectives through facilitated discussion as we continue to translate concepts into lessons and actions to guide future development.