New Westminster Environmental Almanac (2917 ... - Douglas College

Smart Growth BC
City of New Westminster Initiatives
66). This service has been expanded in 2002 to include the multi-family
sector. In 2003 full implementation of this program will be in effect and
over 16 600 multi-family residences will be participating in the program.
With the expansion of the recycling program, it has been determined that
the city will exceed the mandate set out in the GVRD Solid Waste
Management Plan, which has established a commitment to reduce the
amount of solid waste disposed to 50% of 1995 levels.
Additionally, the city operates a recycling depot for the collection
of all items accepted in the blue box program as well as automotive
batteries, oil and filters, white goods and “clean green” yard
waste (see page 67).
Smart Growth BC is a provincial non-governmental agency that
advocates urban development strategies that reduce urban sprawl by
planning more “complete” communities. This includes more compact
developments, development patterns that encourage the use of nonmotorized
transport and transit, and the preservation and creation of
parks and recreation areas. New Westminster is one of three local
municipalities that have joined Smart Growth’s Community Assistance
Program (CAP). As a member of the CAP, New Westminster will receive
research and support services on “smart growth” practices, policies,
tools, and standards.
In January 2002, Smart Growth released a BC Sprawl Report that looked
at the growth patterns of 26 municipalities throughout BC. The report
identified that New Westminster is already applying many of the Smart
Growth strategies. In comparison to the other municipalities supporting
Smart Growth, New Westminster was highly ranked in a number of
categories pertaining to efficient land use, transportation and liveability.
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