As early as 1907, City pioneers were making efforts to plan the original townsite based on the belief that Burrard Inlet would evolve into a world class port, anchored by a working waterfront in Lower Lonsdale and enhanced by a bustling Central Lonsdale. A surrounding quadrangle of open space would create a "great artificial lung", sustaining City residents who were expected to be within a quarter mile of this vital green core.

The legacies of that original vision and early efforts continue on today. Locally, the City is working to provide as many community needs as is practical, thereby reducing demands on transportation and the environment. The City's Waterfront Project, Green Necklace and Library/Civic Centre Development represent our commitment to provide residents with all the conveniences of a vibrant, compact community.

Regionally and globally, the City is a team player. We support Metro Vancouver's regional growth strategies that emphasize environmental protection, green transportation and complete communities. We work with organizations such as TransLink to improve the regional transportation system. We participate in national environmental sustainability programs that, in turn, support global climate change policies such as the Kyoto Protocol.

The City chooses to lead by example and incorporate sound principles of sustainability and liveability. By establishing a working plan for environmental protection and encouraging residents and organizations to get involved, the City aims to achieve its vision for a green and sustainable community.