Simulating the impact of multi-level government policy mixes on Metro Vancouver greenhouse gas emissions

In light of failing global climate action, local governments have set their own greenhouse gas reduction targets and mitigation action plans. The Metro Vancouver regional district, its 21 municipalities and other local authorities have jointly adopted ambitious greenhouse gas targets including a carbon neutral target for 2050. I used CIMS-Urban, an energy-economy model linked to a GIS land use model, to explore the potential impact of multi-government policy mixes on Metro Vancouver’s greenhouse gas emissions until 2050. My research findings suggest that, while local level policies can achieve significant greenhouse gas reductions and offer other benefits, stringent senior government policies would be necessary to achieve Metro Vancouver’s greenhouse gas targets, unless the regional district successfully implements a policy that can decarbonize freight transportation and industry.