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January 30.2026

2 Minutes Read

Vancouver Mayoral Candidate Amanda Burrows Proposes Right to Cool Plan for Homes

Vancouver mayoral candidate smiling by waterfront discussing housing plan.

Introducing a Plan for Cooler Homes in Vancouver

As the temperature continues to rise in Vancouver, mayoral candidate Amanda Burrows is putting forth an innovative retrofit initiative that seeks to keep low-rise apartments, co-ops, and non-market housing comfortably cool. Her approach hinges on upgrading aging buildings that currently depend on outdated gas boilers, which offer inadequate cooling and expose residents to extreme heat conditions and wildfire smoke.

The Right to Cool

With the ambitious goal of achieving what she calls the "right to cool," Burrows advocates for maintaining indoor temperatures below 26°C. This threshold is critical as temperatures exceeding this limit significantly elevate the risk of heat-related illnesses, a concern underscored by the devastating heat dome in 2021 that claimed 619 lives in British Columbia, most occurring indoors.

Addressing Vulnerabilities with Action

The situation is dire for many, especially those with specific vulnerabilities, including seniors and individuals living in socio-economic challenges. Burrows emphasizes that climate change is not a distant threat but an immediate crisis facing many residents today. Her plan envisions collaboration with BC Hydro, provincial and federal agencies, focusing on developing cost-effective solutions to enhance energy efficiency while preserving affordable housing, thus preventing displacement.

A Tipping Point for Affordable Housing

Burrows acknowledges that older, low-rise buildings form the core of Vancouver’s affordable housing landscape and, therefore, must be updated to meet modern climate challenges. “Climate action has to make life safer and more affordable,” she asserts, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in housing policies amidst escalating environmental impacts.

Context of the Current Election Climate

As the Vancouver mayoral race intensifies, Burrows faces competition from fellow OneCity candidate William Azaroff, as well as former ABC councillor Rebecca Bligh. With the election scheduled for October 17, 2026, candidates are pressured to articulate their visions for the city's future and grapple with pressing issues such as housing, climate change, and public safety.

Burrows aims to set herself apart by tackling these critical environmental and social issues directly, making a compelling case that aligns with many residents' desire for affordable housing that is liveable and safe amidst changing climatic conditions.

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01.31.2026

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