At the Foresight Future Economy Summit, we had the opportunity to have a fireside chat with Gregor Robertson (ex-mayor of Vancouver).
Gregor Robertson, the 39th mayor of Vancouver, served for an unprecedented ten consecutive years, making him one of the longest-serving mayors in the city's history. His tenure was notably marked by his leadership in the Greenest City 2020 Action Plan.
Before his political career, Robertson co-founded Happy Planet Foods, a company that rose to prominence as Canada's leading brand in fresh juices, smoothies, and soups. His entrepreneurial journey reflects his long-standing commitment to sustainability.
Currently, Robertson serves as a global ambassador for the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM), the largest global alliance dedicated to city-led climate change mitigation. Here, he leverages his extensive experience to foster international cooperation on climate initiatives.
Can you help us understand how government policies play a role in driving entrepreneurship, particularly within the clean economy sector?
Gregor Robertson highlights the critical role of government policies in fostering a framework for innovation, particularly in the clean economy sector. According to him, effective policies should integrate innovation seamlessly, providing robust support for universities, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers. He notes that while some governments, particularly in the European Union, are ahead of the curve, successful policy implementation often involves navigating complexities related to budgets, taxes, and resource distribution.
What significant opportunities do you see for Canada in the climate economy from a policy standpoint?
From a policy perspective, Robertson sees substantial opportunities for Canada in the climate economy. He emphasizes the importance of presenting clear, quantifiable impacts of policy measures and building strong cases for initiatives within the green sectors. Key areas of opportunity include decarbonizing buildings and shifting towards renewable energy sources, particularly given that a significant portion of building emissions in Canada stems from the combustion of natural gas. He advocates for a comprehensive governmental approach that encompasses all sectors to facilitate this transition.
In your role with the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, can you highlight some international policies Canada could take inspiration from or consider adopting?
In his role with the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, Robertson suggests that Canada could draw inspiration from international policies, especially those implemented in European cities. He points out that significant advancements in energy efficiency and sustainability often originate in urban settings, where the majority of energy consumption occurs. Programs aiming for 100 climate-neutral cities by 2030 in Europe exemplify initiatives that Canada might consider. Such efforts span multiple domains, including transportation and waste management, and highlight the importance of bridging gaps between federal and provincial government policies.
How should local governments approach adopting policies from other countries?
When adopting international policies, local governments must consider both structural and political factors. The outcome of elections greatly influences policy directions, underscoring the importance of leadership in policy adoption. Robertson stresses that politics play a vital role in collective decision-making processes and that effective policy adoption requires more than just voting—it demands active organizing and community involvement.
