The Canadian city of Vancouver has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions since 2007, while its economy and population both have grown significantly, according to a report released earlier this week.

Vancouver has achieved a 4-percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2007. the latest development brings the city one step closer to becoming the greenest city in the world by 2020, an ambitious goal adopted by the city in 2011 and outlined in its Greenest City Action Plan (GCAP), the report said.

"Cities around the world are grappling with the effects of climate change, and in Vancouver we're proving that you can have a strong, healthy economy while reducing carbon pollution," said Vancouver City Mayor Gregor Robertson.

According to the 2013 GCAP report, an update on the implementations of goals outlined in the plan, Vancouver has shown reduction of total solid waste going to the landfill or incinerator by 11 percent since 2008.

Other progress contained growth in transportation mode share by walk, bike and transit since 2007 from 40 percent to 44 percent of all trips, and reduction in overall water consumption by 16 percent from 2006 levels.

Despite the progress, the mayor said there is still much more to be done.

"The costly impacts of climate change require us to continue working hard and strengthening our partnerships with other levels of government, business and labor communities, and our neighborhoods and residents," Robertson said.

Earlier this year, the city stood out of 66 cities and was awarded Global Earth Hour Capital 2013 by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for its efforts to address climate change. Endi