Toronto is welcoming more than 100 environmental innovators and leaders from around the world this week for the 20th annual CitiesAlive conference on green infrastructure.
The City of Toronto is a co-host of this year’s gathering. Already, Toronto is renowned for being on the leading edge of green roof policy, which sees roof space made to include vegetation.
The global conference advocates for innovations in green infrastructure, such as the development of more green roofs and the creation of "living walls," where vegetation is grown in, on and around buildings.
The conference explores research and policy changes needed to advance green infrastructure in major cities and make them more resilient to climate change, the City of Toronto said in a press release.
Green infrastructure and green spaces cool the city in summer, act like sponges to reduce flooding, support biodiversity and provide habitat for wildlife including vital pollinators, officials said.
Meanwhile, city reps reported buildings are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Toronto, and most other cities — primarily through natural gas heating in residential buildings. All in all, the city said buildings in Toronto account for more than 50 per cent of the city's total greenhouse gas emissions.
Introducing more green infrastructure to buildings can help offset emissions, the city said.
“Toronto was a trailblazer for green roofs and green infrastructure and continues to lead through innovation that will help make our city, and planet, more climate resilient," said University-Rosedale Councillor Dianne Saxe.
Mayor Olivia Chow will open the conference on Wednesday.
“Green infrastructure is an essential part of working towards building a more resilient and sustainable city," Mayor Chow said.
City staff members are expected to present on the Downsview redevelopment, the Port Lands flood protection project, the Toronto Green Standard, the green roof bylaw and the eco-roof incentive program.
Conference attendees in Toronto will be treated to master classes, keynote speakers, nature walks and tours throughout the city.
The CitiesAlive conference runs from Wednesday to Friday.
More info is available at https://citiesalive.org/agenda.
