Publicly Available Specification - Equity Lens Infrastructure

The Standards Council of Canada issued solicitation number 2023-16 to secure a supplier for the development of a Publicly Available Specification (PAS) focused on equity lens infrastructure. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive framework and guidance for applying an equity lens to the design and portfolio management of disaster and climate resilient infrastructure. The primary objective is to assist municipalities and asset owners in improving decision-making and risk management by prioritizing construction, operation, and retrofitting based on the specific needs of users and those most disproportionately affected by climate impacts and natural hazards. While the project acknowledges broader benefits such as removing economic barriers and improving labor market access, the core focus remains on risk mitigation for vulnerable populations. This federal procurement process required bidders to submit both technical and financial proposals by the deadline of October 10, 2023. The resulting specification will provide the necessary tools to ensure that infrastructure adaptation strategies are inclusive and effectively address the needs of diverse groups facing climate-related risks across Canada.