The District of Oak Bay is prioritizing Climate Action and the Environment as we grow.
The District has declared a climate emergency and is taking action to promote environmental sustainability in municipal operations and the community. Council has identified Climate Change & Environment as a priority area of action during the 2022-2026 term.
The District of Oak Bay is a signatory to the BC Climate Action Charter, a voluntary agreement between the B.C. government, Union of B.C. Municipalities and each local government signatory to take action on climate change.
District Climate Action Program
Learn more about Climate Action work underway
Climate Friendly Homes
Buildings, including residential buildings, are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Oak Bay, making up 43% of total emissions.
Explore how the District is advancing climate action in buildings below.
Home Energy Navigator: Thinking of a home energy retrofit? The Home Energy Navigator program offers free support to homeowners.
Energy Step Code & Zero Carbon Step Code: In 2024, the District adopted new standards for energy in buildings and is requiring new buildings be highly efficient with low carbon emissions. This helps to reduce community greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).
Best Practice Guide for Heat Pump Installation: The District supports the transition to low-carbon heating and cooling equipment. Learn about considerations for selecting and siting a heat pump on your property.
Oak Bay Coolkit
The Oak Bay Coolkit program engages residents in local climate action, with training and toolkits provided for taking practical action and working collectively to reduce carbon footprints and help create climate-proof, resilient neighbourhoods. Get involved with the Oak Bay Coolkit.
Sustainable Transportation
On-road transportation is the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Oak Bay, making up 38% of total emissions. The District of Oak Bay is working towards improving active transportation infrastructure in order to encourage more trips made by sustainable modes.
Learn more about cycling, taking transit, and public EV charging.
Current Projects
OCP Update
Read more about how we’re considering climate change and GHG emissions through the focused Official Community Plan Update.
Local Government Climate Action Program
The District of Oak Bay receives funding through the BC Local Government Climate Action Program to support timely local climate action. Learn more
Education
The Cool It! Climate Leadership Training program has been delivered by the BC Sustainable Energy Association to schools across BC since 2007. It supports teachers in engaging students on climate change and helps to develop and empower young sustainability champions. The District of Oak Bay partners with the Capital Regional District (CRD) to fund Cool It! workshops within Oak Bay Schools.
Upcoming
Climate Action Plan: In 2026, the District of Oak Bay will be launching a Climate Action Plan. To learn more about the climate action planning process, read the staff report and attached Council Project Sign-off.
Oak Bay Progress Reports
The District of Oak Bay reports annually on progress toward climate goals as a requirement of the Local Government Climate Action Program (LGCAP). Click below to view a history of reports.
Climate Action Reports
- LGCAP Survey Submission - 2023
- LGCAP Survey Submission - 2022
- LGCAP Survey Submission - 2021
- Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program Report - 2019
- CARIP Report - 2018
- CARIP Report - 2017
- CARIP Report - 2016
- CARIP Report - 2015
- CARIP Carbon Neutral Progress - 2014
- CARIP Report - 2014
- CARIP Report - 2013
