Grant: Catalyst Grant: CPHO Report - General Pool

Edmonton has one of the highest per capita greenhouse gas emissions levels in the world (18 tonnes/person), with transportation accounting for 31% of these emissions. Additionally, Edmonton is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, with a population set to double in 30 years. Given this growth, interventions are necessary to mitigate climate change while densifying our city. Edmonton's Energy Transition Strategy states that building out the active transportation (AT) network is a key strategy to reduce emissions, and could support a 28% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Ultimately, more individuals engaging in AT means less cars on the road, improves air quality, congestion, and safety. Thus, AT builds a safer, healthier, more connected and vibrant community for all. Notably, in December 2022, Edmonton City Council approved an investment of $100M over a 4-year period (2023-26) towards the Bike Plan. This investment is one of the most significant climate change and population health interventions in the City's history, and positions Edmonton as a leader in prioritizing safe, active, liveable and more sustainable cities. If implemented successfully (defined as meeting Edmontonians' needs), the Bike Plan will lead to modal shift in which more individuals are utilizing AT, thus less vehicles are on the road. This will reduce climate change health impacts, improve overall health and wellbeing and reduce chronic disease burden. However, our team recognizes we need to understand 'how do we build it to ensure they will come? We acknowledge a $100M investment is substantial, and with robust implementation is a catalyzing opportunity. Our research aims to directly fill this gap. Our goal is to provide the necessary qualitative research to support and inform the $100M Bike Plan investment to ensure successful implementation of this climate change intervention.