A drawing of housing and assorted urban environments forming the letters 'HABITAT'
Illustration by Simone Williamson

Habitat

This series explores how communities are navigating the housing and climate change crises at the same time

In the grips of housing shortages in British Columbia, big questions arise: how do we ensure new homes can withstand a warming climate? What can we do to protect biodiversity amid rapid development? How do we address both the housing and environment crises simultaneously?

Our series, Habitat, is searching for answers. Rooted in place, our reporters are seeking real-world examples to highlight the links between housing policy and environmental protection. From saving species from urban sprawl in the Okanagan, to climate-smart social housing in Victoria and Vancouver, to First Nations-led innovations in healthy energy homes that prioritize cultural wellbeing and climate resilience — we’re exploring what’s working well and what still needs a renovation for the future.

Habitat is made possible with support from the Real Estate Foundation of BC. As per The Narwhal’s editorial independence policy, no foundation or outside organization has editorial input into our stories.

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