City of Saskatoon Reports on 2023 Climate Action Progress

The City of Saskatoon released its 2023 Climate Action Progress Report, detailing strides and ongoing efforts in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and advancing climate mitigation, adaptation, and green network plans.

“We are encouraged to see the community emissions trending downward. Whether you are taking the bus or using active transportation, making home or business energy retrofits, or finding other ways to reduce your electricity consumption and tailpipe emissions, every little bit helps to keep moving us toward our larger goal of net-zero by 2050”, says Jeanna South, Director of Sustainability.

Emission Reduction Highlights

• Community GHG Emissions Reduction: Community-wide GHG emissions decreased by 12% relative to the 2014 baseline. Emissions were 3,371,700 tonnes CO₂e in 2023, down from 3,852,200 tonnes CO₂e in 2014. The largest reductions were seen in the Stationary Energy and Waste sectors.
• Corporate (City operations) GHG Emissions Reduction: Corporate GHG emissions decreased by 7% relative to the 2014 baseline. Emissions were 207,400 tonnes CO₂e in 2023, down from 222,200 tonnes CO₂e in 2014. The largest reductions were seen in the Streetlighting and Buildings sectors.
• Interim Targets: Despite these reductions, Saskatoon fell short of its 2023 interim targets. The City aimed for a community reduction of 15% below the 2014 baseline and a Corporate (City operations) reduction of 40% below the 2014 baseline. Updated interim targets based on remodeled projections toward the City’s 2050 net-zero emissions target will be included in the new Climate Action Plan, expected in 2025.

For the first time, this progress report includes information on the Green Network to recognize the importance of nature-based climate solutions in the City’s climate action planning.  While this reporting is at a starting point, nature-based climate solutions are key to achieving the net-zero emissions target of the new Climate Action Plan being detailed and delivered in 2025.

Progress on Key Plans

• Green Pathways: Progress includes the initiation of natural area management plans for the Small Swale and Richard St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, planning to install food forests in Leif Erickson Park and Boughton Park, and the incorporation of green network considerations into park upgrade designs for Parkridge Park, John Avant Park, Forestry Farm Linkage, Balsam Park, Parc Canada, Buena Vista Park, Robert Hunter West Park, and Weaver Park.
• Low Emissions Community (LEC) Plan: Highlights include completion of 100 residential home energy efficiency retrofits through the Home Energy Loan Program (HELP), construction of a BRT Pilot Station, a 33% waste diversion rate, and significant savings from park and sports field irrigation pilots.
• Corporate Climate Adaptation Strategy: Progress includes the establishment of the Climate Adaptation Program, implementation of weather-related procedures for outdoor staff, and completion of a Crisis Communications Plan.

Benefits 

Climate action not only addresses environmental concerns but also enhances health, quality of life, and economic stability. It offers long-term savings and reduces risks for the community.

The Green network supports biodiversity, mitigates extreme weather impacts, and improves storm water management, while promoting health and well-being through access to green spaces, recreational opportunities, and enhanced urban aesthetics. 

The City of Saskatoon remains committed to its sustainability goals and will continue to work towards a sustainable future.

Learn more about Saskatoon's climate action progress at saskatoon.ca/ClimateTargets or visit saskatoon.ca/ClimateDashboard for specific tracking on the Low Emissions Community Plan.