New Westminster Environmental Partners is a group of New Westminster residents from all walks of life who believe in thinking globally and acting locally. We believe New Westminster has an incredible opportunity because of size and geography to become a leader in sustainability and want to work with residents, business and civic leaders to see that potential be realized. NWEP is non-partisan and we support sustainability being embraced by all political parties, organizations and individuals as “the right thing to do.”
Membership in NWEP is open to all residents and community stakeholders who support our mission and are willing to work with us in a cooperative, consensus based-decision making process to promote sustainability in the City.
Our Mission
New Westminster Environmental Partners will work with residents, businesses and government agencies within the city, to achieve environmental, social and economic sustainability in New Westminster through the identification of issues, education, public advocacy, the promotion of best practices and the implementation of effective projects.
Why is sustainability important?
It’s about supporting fundamental values that most of us hold. In general terms, sustainability means looking after our own needs in an environment of clean air, water and land without affecting the ability of future generations, that’s our children and grandchildren, to meet their own needs. Sustainability also means balancing social, environmental and economic needs; having a pristine environment is a good thing, but while achieving that goal, we also need to look after those who are less fortunate and try to provide decent and secure employment so people can make a living.
What influence does NWEP have at the local level?
Recent census data shows that 85% of British Columbians now live in urban areas such as New Westminster. Cities like New Westminster consume quantities of natural resources from the non-urban parts of the province and generate enormous wastes into the air, watercourse and landfills to sustain our urban lifestyles. It is also estimated that approximately half of all energy consumed and emissions can be influenced by local governments through land use patterns, transportation systems and building codes. While cities can lobby provincial and federal governments to introduce environmental legislation and standards, local government has a significant ability to influence overall sustainability and is the level of government closest to residents.
NWEP will also team where appropriate with like-minded groups to make positive changes for sustainability throughout the region, province and country.
