Joe Gowing
Regional Council · Region of Waterloo
Back to candidatesClimate & Sustainability
- Climate change is an urgent and defining crisis of our time; reducing greenhouse gas emissions should be a primary consideration across municipal decision-making
- Commitments passed by previous councils, like the 50x30 pledge or declarations of climate emergencies, should guide current council decision making, Our local and regional governments need to renew coordinated action towards implementing the Transform Waterloo Region strategy
- Where possible, require or incentivize energy efficiency standards in new development, beyond current provincial minimums, Create financial incentives for low-carbon construction (e.g. development charge reductions, expedited approvals, density bonuses), Require green infrastructure as part of development approvals (e.g. stormwater management, tree canopy, permeable surfaces)
- Require climate risk and lifecycle cost analysis in major capital decisions
- Require an assessment of impacts on aquifer recharge
- Align municipal operations (fleet, facilities, procurement) with regional climate commitments
Describe one concrete policy, incentive, or decision you would prioritize to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Where possible, explain how it balances environmental goals with fiscal responsibility.candidate's own words
I would incorporate energy-performance and lifecycle-cost analysis into the Facilities Strategic Plan that I brought forward and Regional Council approved. The Region needs a complete understanding of the condition, operating costs and future needs of its buildings before making major investments. Energy improvements should be prioritized when equipment reaches the end of its useful life or when reduced energy consumption can recover the investment through lower operating costs. This approach lowers emissions and utility expenses without prematurely replacing usable assets or placing unnecessary costs on taxpayers. Similar performance standards should be considered for new Region-owned and Region-funded affordable housing.
Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on sustainability?candidate's own words
Sustainability has already been an important part of my work on Regional Council. I brought forward the Facilities Strategic Plan to improve long-term planning for Region-owned buildings. I also moved the motion that received unanimous Council support requesting a pause on new and expanded private water-taking permits in the Mannheim Service Area while the Water Supply Strategy is updated. I have advanced work on a larger residential greywater and rainwater-reuse pilot and pressed for measurable results from the Region’s expanded water-conservation programs. I have also consistently emphasized groundwater monitoring, aquifer recharge and the effects of growth on our long-term water supply. My approach is practical: protect essential natural resources, test new approaches through measurable pilots, consider the full lifecycle cost of infrastructure and prioritize investments that reduce both emissions and long-term operating expenses. Sustainability should be part of responsible asset management, not treated as a separate or symbolic spending exercise.