Affordable. Efficient. Safe.
We can live and work in comfortable buildings powered by energy that's clean and safe.
We all want the same things: safe homes, affordable energy bills, clean air, and a community that cares for both its people and the planet while also being prepared for what’s ahead.
But too many new homes are being built with outdated systems that drive up energy bills and bring more pollution into our neighborhoods.
The Zero Carbon Step Code is a practical, high-impact solution that helps us prepare.
By choosing efficient electric heating and cooling from the start, we can build NEW homes right from the start, that stay comfortable year-round, cost less to run, and bring cleaner air into our communities.
Cities like Port Moody, Burnaby, and New Westminster are already leading the way. Now it’s Port Coquitlam’s turn to make sure we are building smart homes that protect our health, keep costs down, and meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.
Use your voice to add your name or ask city council to adopt the highest level of the Zero Carbon Step Code as soon as possible, so every new home is built to take care of the people who live in them.
I think NEW buildings in Port Coquitlam should be Affordable, Efficient, and Safe
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The Zero Carbon Step Code is specifically about making NEW buildings more efficient, affordable and comfortable for people to live in, in the face of the changing weather, for our communities.
It’s true that we can’t make the shift to all-electric overnight, but this policy is taking the first step to get us there. And we can use our voices as a community to come together and speak up for what we need.
These B.C. communities have adopted a strong Zero Carbon Step Code ahead of the province’s 2030 mandate because developers and homeowners get that NEW buildings need it now.
Burnaby
Central Saanich
Colwood
Cowichan
Cowichan Valley Regional District
Esquimalt
Nanaimo
New Westminster
North Cowichan
Oak Bay
Port Moody
Saanich
Squamish
Victoria
View Royal
Whistler
Please join our budding Nature Walk community!
It’s a monthly get-together featuring a relaxed walk where we’ll get some fresh air and enjoy nature. It’s also a space to build community, socialize, and talk with others who care about local climate action.
Our group is just starting out, so there is no pressure to be super involved or know anyone already, but we’d love to have you join us!
Here’s the event info for our next Nature Walk:
- Date: Saturday, September 12th
- Time: 11:00am
- Meet-Up Location: Meet in front of Munday Park Field House, 641 Hillcrest Street, Coquitlam
- Walk Info: Mundy Park
If you’d like to attend please RSVP, or feel free to just show up and say hi. If you have any questions you’re more than welcome to reach out to our organizer Dana (dana@neighboursunited.org)
Why Methane is Harmful and Unnecessary in British Columbia
“Natural gas,” also known as methane, is a potent greenhouse has, over 80 times more warming than carbon. It has an impact on our environment and our health.
In a province like British Columbia, a place with abundant hydroelectric power, continuing to rely on methane is unnecessary and works against to our goals to address climate change.
Methane in B.C. just doesn’t make sense. Here are some reasons why:
Health Concerns
When we cook for our families or heat our homes, we want to know that these actions aren’t harming us or are loved ones. But studies have linked methane gas exposure to increased risks of respiratory issues, cancer, and other health problems. Protecting our health means moving towards cleaner, renewable energy sources.
Energy Independence
Relying on methane ties us to volatile global energy markets, subjecting us to price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. Transitioning to local renewables offers energy independence, reducing vulnerability to external factors. Harnessing the power of our own resources like hydroelectricity and solar, ensures a stable, reliable energy supply for our communities.
Environmental Harm
Despite being a cleaner burning fuel than coal or oil, methane still releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants when burned. Its extraction, often through hydraulic fracturing (fracking), can contaminate water sources and disrupt ecosystems. Most British Columbians support investing in renewable energy alternatives and want to move away from fossil fuels altogether.
Transitioning Today
With British Columbia’s abundant renewable energy resources, such as hydroelectric power, we have the opportunity to transition to a more sustainable energy landscape. Embracing renewables and saying no to fossil fuels, isn’t only better for the planet and our health, but also creates jobs and means a healthier environment for our children and grandchildren.
Learn More
Want to know more? Explore the resources below to dive deeper into the impact of methane on our environment and health:
- What Science says about the health risks of cooking with gas stoves
- Watch this video on why we need to ditch natural gas now
- Poll: British Columbians overwhelmingly support $36B electricity grid expansion, renewables over LNG, and the need for an energy strategy
- Are gas stoves the new cigarette?
Join us in advocating for a cleaner, healthier British Columbia. Together, we can make a difference by choosing renewable energy over harmful fossil fuels like methane.