The document focuses on 4 key issues: climate action, environmental protection and enhancement, demographic dynamics and a sustainable economy, and quality of life, equity and inclusion. 55 actions have been adopted to achieve 10 objectives based on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. "We are the only municipality in Quebec to implement them," says Luce-Ann Tremblay, Director of Communications and Sustainable Development.

Baie-Saint-Paul's climate action objectives include hiring a professional environmental resource and, by 2025, completing the immunization of flooded neighbourhoods and developing a shoreline protection plan.

Baie-Saint-Paul is also aiming to electrify 60% of its light municipal vehicles by 2030, and to install electric charging stations on municipal buildings and elsewhere in the city.

In terms of environmental protection and enhancement, there are plans to restore and enhance the René-Richard house and the Cimon estate. The city also intends to reduce drinking water consumption by 10%, from 240L/person/day to 220L/person/day, although this represents good progress since 20 years ago the figure was 600 liters. "The remaining 20 liters are the most difficult," says General Manager Gilles Gagnon.

The challenge of demographic change is to move towards sustainable tourism, encourage sustainable agriculture and support the development and vitality of small and medium-sized businesses. This last point includes adapting regulations to support the start-up of small businesses on the territory.

Finally, quality of life, equity and inclusion aims to diversify modes of transport and promote safety for all users, encourage access to leisure activities and inclusion for all, and support organizations working with people in vulnerable situations.

The construction of the multifunctional sports center, the only element of the 3rd sustainable development plan not to have been completed, is included in the 4th plan with a "long term" mention, equivalent to six years.

"These initiatives were suggested by our citizens during the co-creation workshops held last April, before the floods. At the time, we had no idea what would follow," says Michaël Pilote.

Baie-Saint-Paul was accompanied by Laval University's Institut Environnement, Développement et Société. By April 2022, the city had committed to carrying out an initial diagnosis in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

The event was followed by a screening of the film "Animal".

The sustainable development plan will be available on the Ville de Baie-Saint-Paul website.

Source: cihofm.com/news/