Climate Justice in Urban Climate Policies in Canada and the United States

Throughout the United States (US) and Canada, the effects of climate change have become apparent through rising temperatures, extreme precipitation, inland flooding, rising sea levels, air pollution, and the increased frequency and intensity of extreme heat. In the face of increasing challenges to health and security, cities in the US and Canada have begun to take action to combat climate change, including through urban design. This paper provides insight into how each country has approached climate justice in urban design through an in-depth analysis of the most recent climate action plans from major urban areas in each country. I explore differences in climate hazards and responses, as well as the communities or groups included or targeted in the planning process. The analysis reveals a concerning variation in the explicit mentions of vulnerable communities and groups among cities in the US and Canada, showing a lack of coordination within and between the two countries. It is also noted that more references are made to marginalized communities in climate action plans in the US than in Canada.