Integrated Sustainability Plan for the Town of Shelburne

Type of initiative FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector Multi-sector (Plans)
Project value$38,648
Project Type Plan
Sub Sector Sustainable Communities
Grant amount$16,920
Program type GMF
Municipality Town of Shelburne (NS), NS
Status Fully Disbursed
Population 592
Project timeline 2009 - 2011
Project number 10169

Description

The Town of Shelburne developed an Integrated Sustainability Plan (ISP) built on an adaptive management framework. The plan identified short-, medium- and long-term goals for sustainability, emphasizing features that would enhance the quality of life for Shelburne’s citizens. It also identified opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve environmental stewardship, take advantage of the town’s unique location and natural assets, and address the town’s future financial, health, social, and cultural well-being. Sustainability was to be integrated across all departments and service areas. The town’s waterfront, which included heritage assets and key infrastructure, was an area of focus as the ISP explored environmental protection from climate change impacts such as rises in sea level, coastal erosion and salt-water intrusion. This environmental aspect was expected to be of interest to other coastal communities. Youth participation was an integral part of the consultation. Visioning aspects of the planning process and youth sessions were added to the local high school curriculum. The plan also included evaluation mechanisms and tools for monitoring each step.

Applicant

Town of Shelburne (NS), NS