Learn About the Big Disruptors

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Satellite photo of Metro Vancouver
Metro Vancouver Region: Credit "Inverse"

Learn about big disruptors that could reshape what the region looks like in the future.

We know that impacts of climate change are already here and intensifying. We also know that the region's place in the global economy could change. Combined with advances in technology, Metro Vancouver could look very different in 2050.

To learn more about potential futures we're thinking about, read our regional scenarios report. ( Download)

Climate Change



Metro Vancouver storm surge: Credit "CBC"

We are already experiencing climate change, by 2050 we will see more rain in the winter, drought and forest fires in the summer, and sea level rise. Will more frequent and intense rain impact the way you move?


Learn more:

  1. Climate change in B.C.: Here's how 2050 could look | CBC News, Jun 2017
  2. Climate change predicted to transform Vancouver into San Diego, but at a heavy cost | Vancouver Sun, Feb 2017.
  3. The Planet Can't Survive Our Transportation Habits | CityLab, Oct 2018
  4. Google’s New Tool to Fight Climate Change | The Atlantic, Sep 2018

Shifting Global Economy



With Canada’s largest port, Metro Vancouver is a transport hub that's important for the economy. Imagine the region if trade picks up. Imagine the region with a less global, more locally-focused economy.

Learn more:

  1. With automation threatening jobs, Canada needs to form an action plan |The Globe and Mail, Apr 2018
  2. The gig economy is here – and we aren’t ready | The Globe and Mail, Oct 2017
  3. What Should the ‘Sharing Economy’ Really Be Called? | The Atlantic, May 2016
  4. The Future of Work in Cities | National League of Cities, Jul 2017

New Technologies



New advances in robotics could change the kind of jobs humans do in the future. Virtual reality could make tele-commuting commonplace. What will the nature of work look like by 2050? Will you even need to commute?

Learn more:

  1. Can Silicon Valley Disrupt How We Build? | CityLab, Jun 2018
  2. Delivery robots: a revolutionary step or sidewalk-clogging nightmare? | The Guardian, Apr 2017
  3. Why People Still Don’t Buy Groceries Online | The Atlantic, Feb 2019
  4. Can Artificial Intelligence Be Smarter Than a Human Being? | Crazy/Genius Podcasts, The Atlantic, Sep 2018

For more information on how new technologies are affecting transportation, read about four trends reshaping how we move.

Categories: background, rts

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