A unique approach to providing municipal services in the Town of Gibsons has earned recognition by the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
According to a report, Gibsons approach to providing municipal services combining built assets including roads and pipes with natural assets such as ponds and aquifers has helped the community reduce costs.
The report also says the model set forward by the small Sunshine Coast municipality can serve as a stepping stone for other communities in BC.
“Gibsons staff believe that to replicate this initiative, political leadership that recognizes the value of natural assets as part of a municipality’s total infrastructure system is necessary,” the report says. “They found it invaluable to build community awareness and professional awareness among staff about the importance of protecting natural assets.”
Examples of the model include the White Tower stormwater ponds and the foreshore sea walk, and the report says it not only manages stormwater but also protects the shoreline, provides recreational areas, and supports the environment.
