Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante is pleased with the inauguration of the sixth United Nations office in the city, highlighting the alignment of the UN’s goals with her environmental and housing initiatives during her tenure.
After nearly three years since its announcement, the UN Human Settlements Programme, UN-Habitat, has established its project office in Montreal. With a starting team of nine members, the office aims to promote the development of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban areas and human settlements.
Valérie Plante, who will not be seeking re-election in November, expressed her excitement about the opening of the office before the end of her term. She emphasized the significance of this event as a recognition of Montreal’s dedication to environmental issues and sustainable development.
As the first female mayor of Montreal elected in 2017, Plante prioritized enhancing public transportation, reducing traffic congestion, increasing green spaces, and advancing social housing initiatives. While implementing various environmental policies, such as protecting pollinators and creating innovative parks to combat climate change, she also faced criticism regarding her focus on bike lanes and social housing effectiveness.
Plante believes that the establishment of the UN office validates her administration’s commitment to integrating climate change considerations in all city projects, emphasizing the importance of continuing environmental efforts for the well-being of Montreal residents.
