Whistler2020: Whistler’s plan to achieve sustainability
Rooted in our values and a science-based approach to sustainability, Whistler2020 is long-term, comprehensive, community-developed, community-implemented, and action-focused.
Photo Credit: Bob Brett
What is Whistler2020?
Whistler2020 is our community's shared vision and plan for continued success to the year 2020 - and an ambitious step on a longer journey to a sustainable future. Rooted in our values and a science-based approach to sustainability, Whistler2020 is long-term, comprehensive, community-developed, community-implemented, and action-focused.
A new way of planning is required that focuses on building a forward-looking and adaptable resort community. This 'comprehensive sustainability' approach to planning must integrate innovative solutions to address local and global challenges and employ an upstream and systems-based perspective at all levels (i.e. focus on root causes, not symptoms).
An upstream approach to planning avoids problems before they occur, as opposed to a ‘downstream’ approach where resources are used to deal with the results of the problems. A system is made up of many different parts that work together and share a basic set of principles. Identifying and avoiding problems upstream requires an integrated systems approach, which involves understanding the connections and relationships among different parts of the entire system rather than only looking at individual parts.
Whistler2020 Descriptions of Success - Natural Environment
To move us to place we wish to be, The forward-looking Natural Environment Whistler2020 Descriptions of Success were developed and guide our decision making:
- An ecologically functioning and viable network of natural areas is protected and restored where gaps occur.
- Degradation of critical natural areas is avoided.
- Indigenous biodiversity is maintained.
- The protected natural areas throughout the Corridor include a full spectrum of locally representative ecosystems.
- Backcountry areas are protected from overuse and degradation.
- Community members and visitors are educated about the natural environment and act as stewards.
- Continual learning about natural areas and species informs appropriate restoration and protection efforts.
- Corridor partners adopt Natural Areas Strategies consistent with the intent of this document.
- Natural systems guide management approaches.
- Strategies for restoring degraded ecosystems are identified and implemented.
- The existence of invasive species in Whistler is eliminated and prevented.
