Constructive Voices
Canada Built Environment
Canada Built Environment is a collection of articles and podcasts about the built environment and biodiversity in Canada.
Urban DesignVancouver’s Urban Forest: Integrating Nature into City Life
Vancouver’s Urban Forest Strategy provides tools for growing and maintaining a healthy, resilient urban forest for future generations1. The city’s approach integrates nature into everyday life, creating thriving natural areas. Vancouver residents can witness the magic of seeing salmon in local streams, whales in the harbour, and eagles overhead. The urban forest comprises all trees […]
Jackie De Burca · 11/20/2024
Urban DesignThe Rise of Vancouverism: A Model for Sustainable Urban Design
Vancouverism has emerged as a unique urban strategy, captivating the global stage as a model for sustainable development. This hybrid approach, blending influences from metropolises like New York and Hong Kong, has rewritten the narrative of urban planning1. With over thirty years of civic service experience, including fifteen years as co-chief planner in Vancouver, Larry […]
Jackie De Burca · 11/20/2024
Urban DesignVancouver’s Walkable Wonders: Urban Design Secrets Behind a Pedestrian Paradise
Vancouver’s Walkable Wonders: Urban Design Secrets Behind a Pedestrian Paradise Vancouver, the crown jewel of Canada’s Pacific Northwest, has transformed itself into a veritable pedestrian paradise, captivating visitors and residents alike with its meticulously planned urban design. The city’s walkable neighbourhoods, seamlessly integrated with natural wonders, paint a vibrant tapestry of cultural riches and sustainable […]
Jackie De Burca · 10/20/2024
Urban DesignDensity Done Right: What Vancouver Can Teach Other Cities About Urban Living
Density Done Right: What Vancouver Can Teach Other Cities About Urban Living As cities around the world grapple with the challenges of urban sprawl and its detrimental impacts, Vancouver has emerged as a global model for successful high-density development. This coastal Canadian city has demonstrated that it is possible to double urban density while maintaining […]
Jackie De Burca · 10/20/2024
BiodiversityCanada Sacred Natural Sites and Biodiversity
Canada Sacred Natural Sites and Biodiversity Did you know that Canada is home to a remarkable network of sacred natural sites (SNS) that protect not only the nation’s cultural heritage but also its unique biodiversity? These sacred lands, recognized for their spiritual significance, have become biocultural hotspots attracting increasing attention in academic, management, and political […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/14/2024
Canada Built EnvironmentCanada Green Building History
Canada Green Building History In recent years, there has been a growing focus on sustainable construction practices, environmentally-friendly architecture, and sustainable development in Canada. However, the roots of this movement can be traced back several decades, to when the country first began experimenting with green building concepts. Canada Green Building History: A Rich Tapestry Canada’s […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
BiodiversityCanada Biodiversity and the Built Environment
In today’s rapidly developing world, finding a balance between conservation and sustainable development is crucial. The relationship between urban environments and biodiversity preservation has become a hot topic, particularly in Canada. The country’s commitment to protecting its rich natural heritage by integrating conservation strategies into urban planning, environmental impact assessments, and habitat restoration is commendable. […]
Jackie De Burca · 2/29/2024