Inspiring initiatives: looking back on 10 years of green infrastructure in Langley, BC; a subwatershed plan for Georgina, Fox and Snake Island; a legal toolkit for local food policy; and private investment in a greener Detroit
Inspiring initiatives: looking back on 10 years of green infrastructure in Langley, BC; a subwatershed plan for Georgina, Fox and Snake Island; a legal toolkit for local food policy; and private investment in a greener Detroit

Inspiring initiatives: looking back on 10 years of green infrastructure in Langley, BC; a subwatershed plan for Georgina, Fox and Snake Island; a legal toolkit for local food policy; and private investment in a greener Detroit

A decade of green infrastructure in Langley, BC

In 2007 the Township of Langley held an event showcasing green infrastructure innovation. Since then, Langley has shown a commitment to green infrastructure by ensuring harmony and integration throughout the Township. Rain gardens are now standard practice and the commitment to designing with nature is evident – Langley even has its own Green Infrastructure Services Department. A recent report released by the partnership for water sustainability in BC shows an impressive amount of green infrastructure integration throughout the Township of Langley, with planners, engineers, environmental workers and asset managers all working toward a greener community. Read the full report here.

A subwatershed plan for Georgina, Fox and Snake Island          

The Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, in partnership with Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, have developed a subwatershed plan for Georgina, Fox and Snake Islands. This plan was requested by the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation to “help identify impacts on the islands’ natural features, ensure that the cultural values of the First Nation as being keepers of Mother Earth would be captured and integrated into the efforts put forth to restore and protect such for future generations, as well as to be consistent with the efforts that are on-going within the Lake Simcoe watershed.” Read the full plan here.

A Local Food Policy Legal Toolkit                                                                                                                          

The Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic released a new toolkit focusing on local food policy. This toolkit devotes a full section to urban agriculture, with useful information about zoning, economic incentives, land access and human health concerns. Get the full toolkit here.

Financial services firm investing in green infrastructure in Detroit

Green infrastructure project investments by private-sectors companies can provide high-value social and environmental returns. JPMorgan Chase & Co. is investing $900,000 for a more sustainable Detroit. The company plans to work with the Nature Conservancy and other partners to create a “Special Purpose District” that will provide cost effective stormwater management services. Read more here.