Combining spatial innovation and Blue Green Infrastructure to build climate resilience in Vancouver
At a glance
Faced with aging infrastructure, ecosystem pressures and intensifying climate risks, the City of Vancouver recognized the importance of adopting a new approach to sewer system upgrades. GHD helped deliver an innovative solution by combining Infrastructure Development Geospatial Options (InDeGO) with Blue Green Infrastructure, supporting sustainable growth, resilience and water quality improvements.
The challenge
Our response
GHD partnered with the City on the Willow Trunk Feasibility Study to deliver a data-driven planning solution grounded in two key components: Infrastructure Development Geospatial Options (InDeGO) and Blue Green Infrastructure (Nature-based Solutions approach).
InDeGO is a multi-criteria analysis tool that supports complex infrastructure planning by integrating spatial data with structured decision-making frameworks. Used in Australia for more than 15 years, it enables planners to assess options based on a range of criteria. For the Willow Trunk project, InDeGo helped GHD optimize sewer alignments by analyzing factors such as land use, park proximity, infiltration potential, flood risks and other urban constraints - critical considerations in a densely built-up area anticipating future growth.
Blue Green Infrastructure principles complemented this planning approach. GHD’s team identified opportunities to incorporate green rainwater infrastructure and create new urban wetlands, helping to manage stormwater naturally, support biodiversity and enhance the liveability of densely populated areas.
While many municipalities have internal GIS capabilities, clients engage GHD for our integrated perspective. We combine geospatial analysis, water management expertise and sustainable design thinking to deliver more holistic and resilient outcomes.
This project also reflects GHD’s Future of Water approach, which drives investment in emerging ideas, technologies and approaches that advance sustainable water solutions across the globe.
The impact
Through the Willow Trunk Feasibility Study, GHD provided the City of Vancouver with a prioritized path for achieving its goals. The project outcomes include:
- Optimized sewer separation plans that balance technical, environmental and social considerations
- Increased growth capacity in an already developed urban area
- Reduced flood risk and stormwater impacts through sustainable infrastructure
- Enhanced water quality and support for local biodiversity
- A stronger foundation for adapting to future climate conditions, including sea level rise and extreme rainfall
By combining leading-edge spatial decision tools with Blue Green Infrastructure, GHD helped Vancouver advance its vision for a more resilient, sustainable city.