What's New
Your source for new events and information on climate change and energy efficiency.
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What's New
Your source for new events and information on climate change and energy efficiency.
I’m Dreaming of a “Low-Carbon” Christmas! | December 15, 2017
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There are many ways to make your holiday season more environmentally friendly this year. Holiday activities such as travel, gift giving, hosting parties and decorating can contribute to our carbon footprint (i.e. the greenhouse gas emissions associated with daily activities), but there are many actions you can take at home to enjoy the holidays and reduce your impact on the environment. We have provided some tips on ways you can make your holiday a bit greener, but be creative and come up with others of your own. Share ideas with your friends and family on how to celebrate a sustainable and low-carbon Christmas!
Oh Christmas Tree!
Consider a real tree this Christmas. Whether to celebrating Christmas with a real or artificial tree is a big choice over the holidays. In addition to smelling and looking nice, real trees are often the most sustainable option. While they grow, trees absorb carbon dioxide and emit fresh oxygen. They are a renewable resource and if grown locally, they help support the local economy.
If you have an artificial tree, use it as many times as possible. If you are replacing it, consider donating it to a local charity or another family looking for a second-hand tree. When it starts to look a bit shabby, you can also reuse the branches to make wreaths and garlands to decorate your front door, mantel and banisters.
Deck the Halls!
To reduce waste when decorating, use decorations that can be reused each year. You can also be creative and make your own decorations from tree bows, recycled materials, or plants and flowers that can be repotted and enjoyed all year.
Merry and Bright!
Consider using LED holiday lights, which use 90 percent less energy than traditional incandescent lights. When less energy is consumed, less greenhouse gas emissions are produced, and this can also create savings on your electricity bill. Putting your lights on timers can also save electricity over the holidays
Seasons’ Greetings!
Christmas cards are wonderful to give and receive, but can end up in the trash after the holidays. Consider sending e-cards to family and friends this year or if you still enjoy the tradition of real cards, look to buy or make cards from recycled materials. Make sure that after the holidays are over, you divert as much of your waste as possible by recycling what you can.
Shop ‘til you drop!
Shopping can be a big part of the holidays. All of that time running around is hard on your gas tank and also on the environment. Combining shopping trips and errands can save both time and money. Several short trips taken from a cold start can use up to twice as much fuel (and produce more greenhouse gas) than a longer multi-store run over the same distance. Another option is to carpool, use public transit, or walk when you go shopping or visiting over the holidays. This can save some money on fuel costs, and help take the hassle out of finding a parking space. When you are shopping, don’t forget your reusable bags! Not only are they great for hiding what stores you’ve shopped at, but using them will help reduce your carbon footprint and keep plastic bags out of our landfills.
My Gift to You!
If you need batteries for any toys you are giving or receiving this Christmas, use rechargeable batteries. If you do give a battery operated gift this year, consider giving a battery charger too!
Christmas seems to be the time to get that new electronic device you had your eye on, but what happens to the device you currently have? Rather than throw it out, check your local municipality for electronic recycling programs. If your old device is still in working order, consider donating it to someone who can make good use of it. Did you receive a gift you don’t particularly love or you already have? If so, consider donating it to a local second-hand shop or a charity for those who are more in need.
Wrap it up!
Unfortunately most traditional gift wrap is not recyclable, this can result in a lot of trash each year. Rather than using traditional wrapping paper for your Christmas gifts, think outside the box! Use brown paper, newspaper or colorful, patterned pages from old magazines. If you do buy paper, look to make sure it is recyclable. An attractive scarf is great for wrapping smaller items and it can be incorporated as part of the present. If you give or receive bows or ribbons, consider extending the life of these items by saving them and reusing them again. Do you have left over Christmas wrapping paper from last year? Consider transforming it into reusable gift bags. You can also reuse old Christmas cards to make customized gift tags.
Party Time!
Are you hosting a holiday party this year? There can be a lot of food leftover after a holiday parties, so this year, why not reduce the amount of food you prepare or purchase or send leftover treats home with your guests. Skip the single-use products and opt to use your own reusable plates, cups and cutlery that can be washed and used again. Choose products with less packaging and set up clearly marked recycle bins at your party to make it easier for guests and to make clean up quicker. These options can reduce your waste, and also save money over the holidays.
Recycle your tree
Trees are biodegradable and can be easily reused for mulch and other purposes. Many communities across the Province offer Christmas tree recycling programs. Check with your local municipality to see if they are offering or aware of any tree recycling programs this year.
Green Resolution
Are you planning to make a New Year’s Resolution this year? If so, try considering something green. Changing your habits can have a bit impact on yourself and the planet. The New Year is an excellent time to reflect on ways to improve your carbon footprint. New Year’s resolutions could include reducing your household waste, making energy efficiency upgrades to your home or spending less time in your car. Be creative, and explore ways you can reduce your impact on the environment.
First Progress Report on the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change Released | December 13, 2017
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In December 2016, the Federal Government and eleven provinces and territories, including Newfoundland and Labrador, signed the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), a landmark national commitment to tackle climate change and grow the clean economy. The PCF includes specific federal-provincial-territorial (FPT) actions that will be implemented in an effort to meet Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target, enhance resilience to climate change impacts, and create jobs.
As part of the PCF, First Ministers (i.e. the Prime Minister and Premiers) also agreed to report annually on progress towards achieving objectives. On December 9, 2017, the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment marked the one-year anniversary of the signing of the PCF by releasing the first annual progress report on PCF implementation. The report was developed by the CCME with input from other ministerial tables (e.g., Transportation), and was submitted to First Ministers.
This report highlights national progress on achieving objectives for the four pillars of the PCF, including carbon pricing, supporting actions to reduce GHG emissions, adaptation and resilience, and clean technology, innovation and jobs. At the national level, selected year-one achievements outlined in the report include:
- Progress towards implementation of carbon pricing in all Canadian provinces and territories;
- Enabling work on phasing out coal-fired power generation, reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, and the development of a Canadian clean fuel standard;
- Development and deployment of funding programs and services to improve climate adaptation resources and infrastructure resilience, such as the Canadian Centre for Climate Services; and
- FPT actions to improve the sustainability of government operations.
With respect to Newfoundland and Labrador, a range of measures are underway to meet PCF commitments, such as:
- Implementation of GHG reporting regulations under the Management of Greenhouse Gas Act;
- Updating climate change projections for the Province using the latest climate science; and
- The development of a new Provincial Climate Change Action Plan.
If you are interested in learning more, a copy of the report is available here.
You can also check out the Federal Government’s news release at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/news/2017/12/governments_publishprogressreportonfirstanniversaryofmade-in-can.html
A copy of the PCF is available here.
Canada in a Changing Climate: A New National Knowledge Assessment on Climate Impacts and Adaptation | December 8, 2017
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The Government of Canada has recently launched their national assessment of how Canada’s climate is changing, the impacts of these changes and how we are adapting to reduce risk.
The assessment, named Canada in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action, is an ongoing collaborative effort. Over the next four years, subject experts will produce a range of authoritative science and knowledge products such as reports and outreach products. These will be based on scientific and technical literature, Indigenous knowledge and practitioner experiences and aim to enhance understanding of the impacts of climate change and ways to improve resilience.
As part of the process, the Government of Canada is seeking your input. There are a range of ways that you can contribute to this process, including:
- Completing a survey to share your input on climate change impacts and adaptation in Canada.
- Submitting documents (peer-reviewed and grey literature, case studies, reports, etc.) that you think should be considered in the assessment process.
- Sharing your expertise in this area by registering as an expert reviewer.
To participate in and find out more about this process, visit the assessment website: Canada in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action.
Low Carbon Economy Workshop for Manufacturers to be Held in St. John’s on December 13 | December 7, 2017
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On December 13, 2017, the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters – Newfoundland and Labrador (CME-NL) is hosting “Preparing to Compete and Win in a Low Carbon Economy”, a workshop designed to help manufacturers prepare for and succeed in the low carbon economy. The workshop will be held from 9:00am to 1:00pm at the Capital Hotel in St. John’s. Representatives from the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) will also be on hand to deliver remarks.
CME-NL indicates that the workshop is targeted at executives, plant and operations managers, financial officers, procurement managers and other staff from manufacturing organizations. Specifically, the workshop will explore topics such as:
- The federal approach to carbon pricing in Canada;
- The various types of carbon pricing mechanisms;
- Key concepts and terms as they relate to carbon pricing;
- The financial impacts associated with carbon pricing and ways to reduce these impacts;
- Understanding what a carbon footprint is and how it relates to carbon pricing;
- Approaches to effectively compete and succeed in the low carbon economy; and
- The resources, such as programs, tools and resources, available to support manufacturers in these areas.
The cost of attending the workshop is $50.00 for Fluent & Network Members, $100 for CME Members and $200 for Non-Members. Interested participants who are not a member of the NEIA can register for the event at: https://nl.cmemec.ca/mpower/event/loadevent.action?e=394
NEIA members can register for the workshop by contacting Kieran Hanley at kieran@neia.org prior to December 7, 2017.
More information on the workshop is available at: http://neia.org/workshop-preparing-compete-win-low-carbon-economy/
The David Suzuki Fellowship Program | November 15, 2017
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David Suzuki is an environmental activist who has spent most of his life helping the general public understand the complexities of science and our interdependence with nature. He has inspired millions of people to take meaningful action against climate change and to protect our planet. In 1990, he co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation. One of the priorities of the Foundation is climate change and clean energy.
The David Suzuki Fellowship program was established to help the next generation of leaders tackle complex environmental problems. There are three fellowships available in three areas of climate change:
- Climate change communications;
- Indigenous knowledge and climate change; and
- Climate change adaptation and cities.
Each fellowship is one year in length and will include a $50,000 stipend; up to $5,000 for travel and other professional expenses; mentorship from David Suzuki Foundation senior staff; and access to office space at any Foundation office. Fellows of the program will divide their time equally between academia (completing a one-year research project) and learning communication and public engagement strategies (professional development within the Foundation).
The deadline for applications is January 15, 2018. For more information, please visit http://fellowships.davidsuzuki.org/.
Electrifying News from Loblaw | Nov 14, 2017
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Loblaw, one of Canada’s largest retailers, announced an electrifying initiative in advance of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment conference held in Vancouver on November 3, 2017.
Ahead of the event, Loblaw announced its intention to transition its entire corporately-owned trucking fleet to electric vehicles over the coming years. As a first step, Loblaw unveiled a 53-foot, fully-electric truck capable of making commercial grocery deliveries with zero carbon emission, which Loblaw indicates is the first-of-its kind in North America. Officials from Loblaw were joined at the announcement by the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.
The announcement is part of Loblaw’s corporate action plan to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which was released in December 2016. In this plan, Loblaw committed to reduce GHG emissions attributable to its operations by 20 per below 2011 levels by 2020, and 30 per cent below 2011 levels by 2030.
Specific 2030 goals outlined in the plan include:
- Reducing emissions associated with electricity consumption by 35 per cent;
- Reducing transportation emissions by 25 per cent;
- Reducing refrigerant emissions by 50 per cent; and
- Improving waste diversion to 80 per cent in stores and 95 per cent in distribution centres.
If you are interested in learning more about this announcement, visit: http://media.loblaw.ca/English/media-centre/press-releases/press-release-details/2017/Loblaw-unveils-first-fully-electric-Class-8-truck-setting-the-stage-for-zero-carbon-commercial-grocery-deliveries-in-Canada/default.aspx
You can also check out Loblaw’s action plan.
Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Meeting in Vancouver | Nov 10, 2017
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The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment met in Vancouver on November 3, 2017, to discuss climate change and air quality. Newfoundland and Labrador was represented at the event by the Honourable Colin Holloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment.
With respect to climate change, ministers reviewed progress on the implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change adopted by First Ministers in December 2016, and discussed national work on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventories and carbon offsets.
Ministers agreed to work towards achieving greater consistency in the way in which GHG emissions are tracked and reported on by provinces and territories and the federal government, and to continue work on the development of a Canada-wide framework for carbon offsets.
What are GHG inventories and why are they important?
Each province and territory, as well as the federal government of Canada, have committed to reducing GHG emissions below certain levels within certain timeframes. For example, Newfoundland and Labrador’s targets are to reduce GHG emissions by 10 per cent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 75-80 per cent below 2001 levels by 2050.
Each province and territory maintains inventories of where their GHG emissions come from. These inventories allow governments to monitor progress towards their GHG reduction targets, and help inform Canada’s GHG reporting on national and international stages. It is therefore important that Canadian governments work to ensure that these inventories are developed consistently across provinces and territories, and are based on the best available data.
What are carbon offsets and why are they important?
Carbon offsets are credits for GHG reductions achieved by one entity that can be purchased by another entity. In some Canadian provinces, such as Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, carbon offsets can be used by companies that are legally required to reduce their GHG emissions, but that may have difficultly achieving GHG reductions at their facility.
For example, if a company cannot achieve enough GHG reductions at its facility, it can purchase carbon offset credits generated by third parties to comply with legal requirements. Carbon offsets are commonly generated from sectors that are not required to reduce their GHG emissions, such as agriculture and forestry. In Canadian provinces, the exchange between these parties is typically governed by defined rules that set out how a carbon offset can be generated.
The development of a national carbon offset framework could provide guidance to provinces and territories, such as Newfoundland and Labrador, that wish to develop their own offset systems, and could also serve to ensure consistency in systems across Canada.
If you are interested in learning more, check out the communique from the event at: http://www.ccme.ca/en/whats_new/article.html?id=82
November Webinar Series on Solutions to Municipal Sustainability Challenges | Nov 10, 2017
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The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has launched a free webinar series this November, exploring solutions to municipality sustainability challenges. The webinars aim to help municipalities identify creative solutions to improve their sustainability, and are intended for municipal staff and elected officials.
As part of this series, the following webinars will be offered:
Retrofitting car-dependent communities: On November 21st, from 3:00-4:30 NST, John Henderson is offering a webinar on retrofitting car-dependent communities. This webinar looks at how you can adapt existing infrastructure to enable alternative and active transportation, and will help you identify what types of sustainable transportation will best meet the needs of your community. John Henderson is a Registered Professional Planner and the Housing Programs Administration with the City of Kingston, ON.
Asset management for sustainability experts: On November 27, from 3:00-4:30 NST, Angela Danyluk, Karina Richters and Kim Fowler are offering a webinar on asset management. This webinar will provide an overview of asset management approaches being used across the country that integrate climate change considerations, and will help you learn about practices that will better prepare your community to withstand future impacts of climate change. Angela Danyluk is the Sustainability Specialist with the City of Vancouver, BC; Karina Richters is a Supervisor in Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change with the City of Windsor, ON; and Kim Fowler is a Registered Professional Planner with Sustainability Makes Cents Consulting.
For more information on these webinars, and to register, visit: https://fcm.ca/home/events/upcoming-events/sustainability-webinar-series-2017.htm
International Climate Change Negotiations Underway in Germany | Nov 7, 2017
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The 23rd Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP23) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is being held in Bonn, Germany from November 6-17, 2017. About 25,000 delegates, including climate change negotiators, observers, researchers and media representatives, are expected to attend.
COP 23 will focus on developing the mechanisms, procedures and guidelines to operationalize the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change so that they can be finalized at COP 24 in Poland in 2018.
COP 23 will also include, among other items, identifying actions for the 2017-2020 period to implement the Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action which was adopted at COP22 in Morocco. This Partnership is focusing on “acting further, faster and together” towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and outlines priorities for cooperation between countries, organizations, initiatives and coalitions on both climate action and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
The Canadian delegation will be led by the Honourable Catherina McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
Daily briefings and updates related to COP 23 can be found here.
Provincial Government Launches the Energy Efficiency Loan Program | Oct 31, 2017
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On October 30, 2017, the Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador officially launched the Energy Efficiency Loan Program (EELP) at an event held at the headquarters of the Canadian Homebuilders’ Association – Newfoundland and Labrador (CHBA-NL). Premier Ball was joined by the Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment and Jocelyn Perry, who was representing the delivery partner, takeCHARGE - a joint energy efficiency initiative of Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro.
What is the EELP?
EELP is a low-interest, energy efficiency financing program designed to increase the affordability of energy efficiency measures, including heat pumps, basement and attic insulation, and home energy assessments. EELP is fully funded by the Provincial Government, and is to be delivered in partnership with Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro over three years.
EELP was initially announced as part of the Provincial Government’s Budget 2017. Budget 2017 earmarked $1 million in 2017-18 for the program, rising to $1.5 million in each of 2018-19 and 2019-20.
Through EELP, eligible applicants can receive low-interest financing of Prime plus 1.5 per cent to conduct energy efficiency upgrades. At current rates, this equates to a total interest rate of 4.7 per cent.
Approved applicants can receive low-interest financing for:
- Up to $10,000 over a maximum of five years towards the purchase and installation of heat pumps and basement and attic insulation; and
- Up to $750 over a maximum of three years to have a home energy assessment completed by a qualified assessor.
Approved applicants will repay the loans through monthly payments on their electricity bill.
Who is eligible for assistance?
Eligible applicants are defined as those who own existing homes that use electricity as their primary heating source, and in which the home has one year of history with the utility. As with any financing program, a credit check may be required prior to approval.
How can I apply?
If you are a customer of Newfoundland Power, you can submit an application for the EELP at:
http://www.newfoundlandpower.com/customerrelations/financingprogram/default.aspx
If you are a customer of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, you can complete an application by speaking to a representative at: 1-888-737-1296.
How can I find more information?
Information on the EELP, such as eligibility requirements, qualifying technologies and contact information for each utility is available at the following link:
https://takechargenl.ca/resources/tips-products/residential/energy-efficiency-loan-program/
If you are interested in learning more, you can also check out the following Provincial Government news release: http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2017/exec/1030n01.aspx
Climate Change Challenge Trivia Contest! | October 23, 2017
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Enter to win a Climate Action Prize Pack by testing your climate change and energy efficiency knowledge. All the answers can be easily found on www.turnbackthetide.ca.
Contest Details
There will be five questions over 5 days with grand prize draw on November 6, 2017, for a Climate Action Prize Pack which includes:
- Programmable thermostat
- Energy monitor & energy efficiency kit
- LED lightbulb
- Low-flow showerhead and faucet aerators
- Hat, mugs, pens, pencils, USB charger, nightlight & outlet protectors
- Reusable lunch bags & tote bags
Prizes have been provided courtesy of takeCHARGE and the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board.
To enter, visit www.facebook.com/turnbackthetide and:
- Like our page
- Comment on each question with your answer
- Share the question with your friends
For the complete set of contest rules, see: Climate Change Challenge Contest Rules
Waste Reduction Week In Canada | October 16-22, 2017
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Waste Reduction Week in Canada takes place the third week in October. It is a national program led by the Recycling Council of Ontario with support from a coalition of non-profit environmental groups and governments from each of the provinces and territories across Canada. The primary purpose of this program is to celebrate achievements and encourage new ideas in the area of responsible consumption and waste diversion.
This year, each day of Waste Reduction Week has a specific theme:
- Monday October 16th: Circular Economy
- Tuesday October 17th: Textiles
- Wednesday October 18th: Champions and Innovators
- Thursday October 19th: Plastics
- Friday October 20th: Food Waste
- Saturday October 21st and Sunday October 22nd: Swap, Share and Repair
For more information about Waste Reduction Week in Canada, please visit: www.wrwcanada.com.
The Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB) of Newfoundland and Labrador is a provincial partner of the Waste Reduction Week in Canada campaign. To learn more about the MMSB and how you can manage your waste production, please visit: www.mmsb.nl.ca or www.rethingwastenl.ca.
As part of Waste Reduction Week in Canada, the City of St. John’s is hosting a Waste Reduction Fair on Saturday October 21st from 10:00am to 4:00pm at the Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) Botanical Garden. Government and community organizations will have booths set up for the public to visit and learn about ways to reduce the amount of waste produced at home, work and in the classroom. Information booths will include the City of St. John’s, MUN Botanical Garden, St. John’s Tool Library, Boomerang Bags, Green Rock, Product Care (paint recycling), Electronics Producers Recycling Association NL, Clean St. John’s, and Island Composting. For more information, please visit: http://www.stjohns.ca/event/waste-reduction-fair.
In addition to the fair, the City of St. John’s has teamed up with the MUN Botanical Garden and the MMSB to offer sessions on backyard composting. The next session is Saturday October 21st from 10:30am to 11:45am. This is a free session open to residents of St. John’s and pre-registration is not required. For more information, please visit the Curb It website: http://www.curbitstjohns.ca/Default.aspx?Content=Residents%2FBackyard_Composting.
Sixth Annual Newleef Green Economy Conference to be Held in St. John’s | October 5, 2017
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The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association's (NEIA) sixth annual Newleef Conference is being held October 11-12 at the Holiday Inn in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Newleef is the province’s leading green economy conference, focusing on the products, services, technologies and policies that can help grow the provincial economy while helping the environment.
The Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation, will kick off the 2017 Newleef Conference with a breakfast keynote address. The conference’s agenda also includes presentations on a wide variety of issues related to climate change and the green economy, such as:
- A synopsis of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change and what it means for Newfoundland and Labrador;
- An overview of greenhouse gas reporting in Newfoundland and Labrador;
- The potential for an offshore wind power industry in Newfoundland and Labrador;
- Federal and Provincial Government procurement;
- Tackling the seven forms of green waste in the manufacturing sector;
- Diesel power generation in Newfoundland and Labrador’s remote communities; and
- Energy efficiency in buildings.
For more information on the 2017 NEIA Newleef Conference, visit: www.newleef.ca
NEIA is a non-profit environmental industry association with over 150 member firms and organizations that promotes the growth and development of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. To learn more about NEIA, visit neia.org.
Local Scientist Releases The Carbon Code, a Book to Empower Action on Climate Change | September 27, 2017
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Dr. Brett Favaro, a conservation biologist from Memorial University, published The Carbon Code earlier this spring. In addition to providing an overview of climate change, Dr. Favaro offers insight on carbon-friendly technologies and behaviours that can help individuals reduce their carbon footprint.
Described as a tool of empowerment, the Carbon Code of Conduct is provided as a framework for individuals to take action on climate change, and is based on what Favaro calls the four R’s: Reduce, Replace, Refine, and Rehabilitate. The book applies this framework to electricity use, transportation, diet, and long-range travel, demonstrating practical and simple strategies that individuals can integrate into their daily lives.
Provincial Government Launches Vehicle Efficiency and Cost Calculator (VECC) | September 15, 2017
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On August 14, 2017, the Provincial Government launched the Vehicle Efficiency and Cost Calculator (VECC) to inform consumers about the costs and benefits associated with purchasing a fuel efficient and alternatively powered vehicle. The VECC provides calculations for both electric vehicles (EVs) and those that run on gasoline or diesel.
The VECC allows users to compare different vehicles to estimate their costs of ownership and impact on the environment by inputting information such as the vehicle type, purchase price, repayment structure, fuel consumption rating and annual kilometers driven.
Once completed, the VECC calculates the total cost of vehicle purchase/lease and fuel consumed over the specified time period, as well as the projected greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with a vehicle’s operation, including those from electricity generation required to power the vehicle in the case of EVs. The VECC also allows users to compare projected GHG emissions from their selected vehicle with those of other commonly used vehicles.
The transportation sector is responsible for 36 per cent of Newfoundland and Labrador’s greenhouse gas emissions, the majority of which come from road transportation. Therefore, encouraging consumers to choose fuel efficient, less emitting vehicles is important to making progress to reducing provincial GHG emissions.
To find out more, see the following Provincial Government news release: http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2017/ma/0914n02.aspx
To try out the VECC for yourself, visit: http://www.turnbackthetide.ca/vehicle-efficiency-and-cost-calculator.html
2016 was the Warmest Year on Record | September 11, 2017
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In August, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its 27th annual State of Climate Report, providing a comprehensive overview of the Earth’s climate for 2016. NOAA is an American scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that focuses on the conditions of the oceans and the atmosphere. NOAA’s Report is a peer-reviewed publication that contains contributions from more than 450 scientists representing over 60 countries. It contains information on global climate indicators such as air and ocean temperatures, weather events, ocean salinity, sea level, sea ice and snow cover and, in addition to presenting a global overview, the Report provides regional breakdowns of the climate data.
The Report shows continued trends of a warming global climate. Sea surface and land temperatures, greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations and sea level have all set new record highs. Earth’s average surface temperature increased for the third consecutive year, and 2016 was the warmest in 137 years of recordkeeping. Mexico and India set record high annual temperatures, and several other countries experienced near-record highs. Further to this, GHG concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide were the highest on record. Over the last two decades, sea level has increased an average of 3.4mm/year, and 2016 was the sixth continuous year whereby sea level increased relative to the previous year.The regional climate overview shows that Canada experienced warmer than average temperatures in 2016. The national average was 2.1⁰C above the 1961-90 average, however winter temperatures were much higher, reaching 4⁰C above average and marking the second warmest winter on record. While winter was drier than average, spring, summer and fall were all wetter than average.
The State of Climate Report is available online in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society. Click here to read the report.
Dr. Gwynne Dyer to Talk Climate Change in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador | September 7, 2017
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The Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) – Newfoundland and Labrador has announced that it is hosting Dr. Gwynne Dyer – world renowned author, historian and independent journalist – to talk climate change. The event will be in the form of a luncheon in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on Monday, September 11, 2017. Mr. Dyer’s remarks are entitled “The Climate Horizon.”
The event will be held from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at the Comfort Inn adjacent to the St. John’s International Airport. Interested participants are encouraged to register online through the IPAC events calendar at www.ipac.ca by Friday, September 8. The cost to attend the event is as follows:
Category | Cost |
IPAC Members | $25 |
Non-IPAC Members | $40 |
New Professionals | $25 |
Dr. Dyer is a well-known international climate change commentator who has published numerous climate change-related materials such as his 2008 book Climate Wars: The Fight for Survival as the World Overheats.
If you are interested in learning more about the event, you can contact Michelle Snow at michelles@gov.nl.ca or 709-729-3126
New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers Adopt Resolutions Concerning Climate Change and Clean Growth | September 1, 2017
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From August 27-28, 2017, Premier Dwight Ball attended the annual conference of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG-ECP) in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The NEG-ECP was established in 1973 to recognize the special bond that exists between the New England states and Eastern Canadian provinces, and is comprised of governors from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont, and premiers from Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec. NEG-ECP meetings are held alternately in New England and Eastern Canada each year. At this year’s conference, Premiers and Governors adopted three Resolutions related to climate change and clean growth:
1. Resolution Concerning the Regional Climate Change Action Plan
At the 2015 conference held in St. John’s, Newfoundland, the NEG-ECP established a new target to reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions by 35-45 per cent below 1990 levels by 2030. This medium-term regional target was adopted to bridge the gap between existing shorter and longer term regional targets of cutting emissions to 10 per cent below 1990 levels by 2020, and 75-85 per cent below 2001 levels by 2050. At this time, Premiers and Governors also tasked their governments to review and update the Regional Climate Change Action Plan (RCCAP), originally released in 2001.
At this year’s conference, Premiers and Governors adopted the updated RCCAP. This plan outlines a framework of possible joint actions to advance the region’s goal to reduce regional GHG emissions and highlights the need for regional collaboration on adapting to climate change. Priority areas identified in the RCCAP include:
- Energy supply and transmission;
- End-use and distributed energy;
- Transportation;
- Natural resources;
- Cross-cutting issues; and
- Government leadership.
As part of the Resolution concerning the new RCCAP, Governors and Premiers also directed their governments to further advance regional discussions and collaboration on climate change adaptation.
2. Resolution Concerning Response to Emergencies in a Changing Climate
Premiers and Governors adopted the Resolution Concerning Response to Emergencies in a Changing Climate which sets out, among other initiatives, that governments of the region will ensure that information about climate-related risks, vulnerability and adaptation options, as well as emerging science in climate change, will be shared and incorporated into planning and decision making in key sectors.
3. Resolution Concerning Transportation
At the 37th NEG-ECP conference in 2013, Premiers and Governors adopted the Resolution Concerning Transportation, which set out, amongst other measures, a commitment to work collaboratively towards achieving a 5 per cent market penetration of Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) by 2020 and to deploy the necessary infrastructure needed to support AFVs, including electric vehicles (EVs).
At this year’s conference, Premiers and Governors approved another Resolution Concerning Transportation. This Resolution builds on the 2013 Resolution and is aimed at improving cross-border collaboration on the identification and development of corridors and networks for EVs to enable travel throughout the region by EV owners.
To read more about the NEG-ECP as well as the resolutions from this year’s conference, visit: http://www.scics.ca/en/conference/41st-conference-of-new-england-governors-and-eastern-canadian-premiers/
Five Buildings in Newfoundland and Labrador Achieve LEED Designation | August 30, 2017
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On August 17, 2017, the Provincial Government announced that, consistent with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Build Better Buildings (BBB) Policy, four schools have received certification under Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) sustainable building program. These are the first schools to achieve LEED certification in the province. This includes:
- Elizabeth Park Primary in Paradise (Certified);
- Holy Trinity Elementary in Torbay (Certified);
- Laval High in Placentia (Silver); and
- Paradise Elementary in Paradise (Certified).
The types of sustainable measures implemented to achieve LEED certification in these schools include:
- Energy-efficient lighting;
- Occupancy-based heating and ventilation controls;
- Water conserving features such as low-flow faucets;
- Geothermal ground-source heat pump systems; and
- Interactive kiosks that display the school’s environmental and energy efficient features to students.
Additionally, a federal Department of National Defence building located in St. John’s, known as the Pleasantville Consolidation Facility, has also recently achieved Silver certification under LEED. To achieve this certification, a number of sustainable practices were implemented, including:
- Redeveloping a contaminated site;
- Utilizing 15 per cent recycled content;
- Achieving a 30 per cent water use reduction over a baseline building; and
- Using low volatile organic emitting compounds; and
What is LEED?
Recognized in over 160 countries, LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a building has been built to high-performing standards for sustainability. The LEED program assesses a buildings performance in relation to a number of criteria such as energy and water use, greenhouse gas emissions, indoor air quality and waste management. LEED is administered in Canada by the Canadian Green Building Council (CaGBC).
Under the LEED rating system, buildings are awarded points for sustainable building practices employed during the design and construction phases. The more sustainable practices that are implemented, the more points that are awarded and the higher the level of certification the building can achieve. There are four LEED certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum.
LEED in Newfoundland and Labrador
Since 2009, the Provincial Government has implemented a sustainable building policy for its funded and constructed buildings, known as the Build Better Buildings (BBB) Policy. This policy requires, amongst other criteria, that applicable buildings register with the CaGBC and strive to achieve LEED Silver certification.
Since the adoption of the BBB Policy, a number of public buildings in the province have achieved LEED designation, including, but not limited to:
- Corner Brook City Hall (Silver);
- Grenfell Campus Arts and Science Extension (Certified);
- Lewisporte Community Health Facility (Silver);
- Memorial University Faculty of Medicine Expansion and the Centre for Human Genetics (Silver);
- Paradise Double Ice Complex (Silver); and
- St. John’s and Corner Brook Long-Term Care Facilities (both Silver).
In addition to these facilities, several private sector buildings in the province have been recognized by LEED such as 351 Water Street - the province’s only LEED Gold facility at this time – and the Beclin Business Park buildings (Certified).
To find out more, see the following Provincial Government news release: http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2017/tw/0817n01.aspx
Vehicle Electrification Initiatives are on the Rise | August 21, 2017
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Electric vehicles are receiving increased attention worldwide, in line with efforts to take action on climate change. In early July, Volvo announced that all models launched after 2019 will be electric or hybrid, and increasingly vehicle manufacturers are offering more electric and hybrid options. New models are boasting improved ranges and more competitive prices to increase consumer uptake, which is being further support by investments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Following Volvo’s announcement, France committed to a complete ban on the sale of all new combustion engine cars by 2040, as part of an effort to fulfill commitments under the Paris Agreement. Britain followed by announcing a similar commitment with a view to help tackle climate change, improve air quality and address environmental and public health concerns. These commitments build upon global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation, including announcements by the Netherlands and Norway to ban sale of new combustion engine cars by 2025, as well as Germany and India by 2030.
Closer to home, Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments are taking strides to reduce GHG emissions from the transportation sector, which accounts for roughly 23 percent of Canada’s total emissions. For example, under the Pan Canadian Framework for Clean Growth and Climate Change there is a commitment to expand the number of zero-emission vehicles (e.g. battery electric and hydrogen fueled vehicles) and supporting infrastructure such as refueling and charging stations. Efforts in Canada vary by jurisdiction, but include subsidies for electric vehicles, targets for electric vehicle sales, and the installation of charging infrastructure. In Atlantic Canada, electrical utilities in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick recently announced the installation of a network of electric vehicle fast charging stations, and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is examining options for reducing GHG emissions from transportation as part of the development of a new climate change action plan, due to be released in 2017-18.
Electric Vehicles in Newfoundland and Labrador
As of December 2016, there were 43 registered battery electric vehicles (e.g. Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Spark) and 316 hybrids (e.g. plug-in electric and conventional hybrids such as Chevrolet Volt and Toyota Prius) in the province. It is estimated that there are as many as 70 electric vehicle charging stations available for public use in Newfoundland and Labrador, the majority of which are located on the Northeast Avalon. Charging stations have also been installed by Sun Country Highway along the Trans-Canada Highway in Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Deer Lake, Stephenville, Port aux Basques and Clarenville, and by the Town of Marystown on the Burin Peninsula.
Federal Government to Pursue BOMA BEST Certification for Buildings in Newfoundland and Labrador | August 11, 2017
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The Building Owners and Managers Association of Canada (BOMA Canada) has announced that the Federal government intends to certify eleven of its properties located in Newfoundland and Labrador under BOMA’s Building Environmental Standards Program, known as BOMA BEST, over the coming months.
This initiative is part of the Federal government’s broader commitment to improving the sustainability and energy performance of its building portfolio across the Atlantic region. Federal buildings in Newfoundland and Labrador that are proceeding with BOMA BEST certification include:
Location | Property Name |
Burgeo | Burgeo Government of Canada Building |
Corner Brook | Joseph R. Smallwood Building |
Fogo | Storage Facility for Fisheries and Oceans Canada |
Grand Bank | Grand Bank Government of Canada Building |
Mount Pearl | Donovans Government of Canada Building |
St. John’s | John Cabot Building Pleasantville Government of Canada Building RCMP Headquarters ‘B’ Division Sir Humphrey Gilbert Building Taxation Data Centre |
Witless Bay | Witless Bay Government of Canada Building |
What is BOMA BEST?BOMA BEST is a third-party certification program for buildings that is designed to assess environmental performance and management of existing buildings. BOMA BEST is offered in Canada by BOMA Canada, and delivered by local associations across the country. BOMA BEST helps assess how well buildings are performing and includes suggestions for tangible ways to improve the sustainability of a building. There are five possible levels of certification under BOMA BEST (Certified, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum) that are awarded based on the performance of the building measured against the program’s criteria, which include assessments of sustainability measures such as energy, water and waste management practices for the building. To date, over 5,000 buildings have been certified or recertified in Canada under BOMA BEST, several of which are located in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the Department of Natural Resources Building, the Sun Life Financial Building and the Avalon Mall. For more information on the BOMA BEST program, visit: http://bomacanada.ca/bomabest/ |
Newfoundland and Labrador included in Collaborative Climate Change Audit | July 28, 2017
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In June 2017, the Auditor General released an audit on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s 2011 Climate Change Action Plan. This five year plan committed to take steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (mitigation) and help adapt to unavoidable impacts of climate change (adaptation). The audit examined both actions related to adaptation and mitigation, and determined that the majority of action items have been implemented by the government department or agency responsible and government had reported publicly on progress. The report also concluded that the mitigation items outlined in the Plan were not sufficient to allow the Province to achieve the 2020 greenhouse gas reduction target of 10 percent below 1990 levels.
The Auditor-General’s Report provided two recommendations:
- Firstly, when designing a plan to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets, Government should ensure that sufficient actions are established to achieve the targets.
- Secondly, Government should consider whether additional action items could be designed that would result in measurable emissions reductions and contribute to the Province reaching its greenhouse gas reduction targets.
A full copy of the Auditor General Report, including the Government’s response to these recommendations, can be found here (see pages 97-112).
This audit is part of a collaborative national audit of climate change actions across the country. Auditors General from all Provinces, Territories and the Office of the Auditor General of Canada have joined forces to compile a single national report, which will review how various jurisdictions are doing in meeting their commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emission and adapt to climate change. The collaborative national audit, which will draw on the findings of audits completed by Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Auditors General, is expected to be complete in 2018.
Memorial University of Newfoundland Announces Energy Efficiency Initiative | July 5, 2017
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Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) is doing its part to help tackle climate change and improve the energy efficiency of its operations. Building on the first phase of an energy performance contract with Honeywell, which was first launched in 2008, on June 22, 2017, MUN launched phase two of the contract. The second phase is valued at $28.4 million and is fully guaranteed and funded by energy savings.
Phase two of the energy performance contract is targeted at 45 facilities on the St. John’s and Grenfell campuses, and focuses on energy efficiency upgrades designed to upgrade facilities, reduce operating costs, improve indoor air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key upgrades include:
- Installing high-efficiency lighting systems and controls;
- Upgrading heating, ventilation and cooling equipment;
- Upgrading and optimizing building system and equipment controls; and
- Sealing air gaps in windows and doors.
Along with reducing its energy costs, MUN estimates the upgrades will result in an estimated annual greenhouse gas reduction of 1,634 metric tonnes, which they indicate is equivalent to taking 547 cars off of the road.
To find out more about MUN’s efforts to improve the environmental sustainability of its operations, visit: https://gazette.mun.ca/campus-and-community/saving-energy-and-costs/
If you are interested in learning more about energy performance contracting, check out: http://www.turnbackthetide.ca/taking-action/businesses/energy-management/performance-contracting.shtml
Federal Government Announces Low Carbon Economy Fund | June 30, 2017
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On June 15, 2017, the Federal Government announced details of the $2 billion Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF), a key tool to support greenhouse gas reductions under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), which was adopted by Canadian First Ministers last December.
The LCEF will provide funding over the next five years to projects that will generate clean growth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The fund is divided into two parts: the Low-Carbon Economy Leadership Fund, and the Low-Carbon Economy Challenge.
Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund
The Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund offers $1.4 billion to provinces and territories that have adopted the PCF to help them deliver on leadership commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including those outlined in the PCF. This includes a $44.7 million dollar allocation for Newfoundland and Labrador.
Over the summer of 2017, the Federal Government will be engaging provinces and territories on their proposed projects under the Fund.
Low Carbon Economy Challenge Fund
The remaining $0.6 billion is allocated for the Low Carbon Economy Challenge, which will be open to provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous governments and organizations, businesses as well as not-for-profit and for-profit organizations for projects that best reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate clean growth. This program will be a competitive fujd and will be formally launched in fall 2017. Further details will be available at that time.
To learn more about the LCEF, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/news/2017/06/low_carbon_economyfund.html
If you are interested in learning about Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitments under the PCF click here.
Canada’s First Zero Carbon Building Standard Launched | June 19, 2017
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The Canadian Green Building Council (CaGBC) has developed Canada's first Zero Carbon Building Standard. Launched in May 2017, the standard is designed to help the building industry contribute to Canada's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets by allowing accurate assessment of carbon impacts and helping to guide investments in energy efficiency, heating technologies, and renewable energy.
A ‘zero carbon building’ is defined in the standard as “one that is highly energy-efficient and produces onsite, or procures, carbon-free renewable energy in an amount sufficient to offset the annual carbon emissions associated with operations.” The standard accounts for not only energy performance within the building, but also the level of GHG emissions associated with the electricity and fuel used by the building. For example, electricity generated from diesel would have more GHG emissions than electricity generated by hydroelectric projects, even though the building uses the same amount of electricity. The standard can be used to assess GHG emissions in commercial, institutional, and multi-family buildings and is designed to allow owners of both new construction projects and existing buildings to apply for certification.
- Certifications for both new and existing buildings require an annual zero carbon balance, where any GHG emissions generated by the building must be offset by generating onsite or purchasing emissions credits for an equivalent amount of renewable energy (e.g., wind, solar
- New buildings must also provide a minimum of five percent onsite renewable energy and meet a minimum level of thermal energy demand performance which requires minimizing heat loss through walls and the roof and ventilation systems), based on climate zone location.
- Reporting requirements of the standard for both new and existing buildings include reporting of energy use intensity, annual peak energy demand, and ‘embodied carbon’ (emissions associated with the production, transportation, assembly, use and eventual decommissioning of materials used in a building’s construction).
The Zero Carbon Building Standard was developed by CaGBC and Integral Group, in consultation with industry organizations, utilities, governments and companies across Canada. To find out more, visit www.cagbc.org/zerocarbon.
College of the North Atlantic to Improve Energy Efficiency | June 14, 2017
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On May 26, 2017, the College of the North Atlantic (CNA) announced $6.8 million dollars in infrastructure investments focusing on energy conservation and building modernization. These investments are part of CNA's Modernization Plan 2019 and are funded by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada.
To increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption, improvements and upgrades will be made to building envelopes (the physical separators between the interior and exterior of a building, such as walls, floors, roofs, windows and doors), lighting systems and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. In addition to these improvements, the funding will also be used to modernize campus shops, labs and classrooms. This investment will not only support environmental sustainability, but also improve the student experience. Ten campuses will receive upgrades, including Bay St. George, Burin, Carbonear, Corner Brook, Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Prince Philip Drive (St. John’s), Ridge Road (St. John’s) and Seal Cove.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada are each providing approximately $3.4 million for these investments, with the federal funding coming from the $2 billion Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund, which supports climate change objectives by encouraging sustainable and green infrastructure projects.
This initiative is one of several infrastructure projects being undertaken to improve campus facilities, as detailed in the CNA Modernization Plan 2019, which includes the development of a Strategic Facility Modernization Plan. Future activities will include engagement with both levels of government to develop new energy conservation and demand management plans.
To find out more information on the infrastructure investments, visit:
http://www.cna.nl.ca/News/News-Article.aspx?MessageID=1134&newstype=REG
For more information on the CNA Modernization Plan 2019, visit: http://www.cna.nl.ca/about/pdfs/irp/Modernization-Plan-2019.pdf
Provincial Government Recognized Nationally for Promoting Sustainable Building Practices | June 8, 2017
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On May 31, 2017 the Provincial Government was awarded the Government Leadership Award by the Canadian Green Building Council (CaGBC) as part of its Building Lasting Change Conference held in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The CaGBC and LEED
The CaGBC is a not-for-profit, national organization that has been working since 2002 to advance green building and sustainable building practices in Canada. The Government Leadership Award acknowledges leadership in the public sector to effect change and improve performance in sustainable building practices, such as through the adoption of a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) policy for government buildings. Recognized in over 160 countries, LEED provides independent, third-party verification that a building has been built to high-performing standards for sustainability.
Sustainable Buildings in Newfoundland and Labrador
The Government Leadership Award recognizes the Provincial Government’s contributions to accelerating green building in Canada, including through the implementation of the province’s
Build Better Buildings (BBB) Policy, which requires government funded and constructed buildings to strive to achieve LEED Silver designation. Since the adoption of the
BBB Policy, a number of buildings in the province have achieved some level of LEED certification, including, but not limited to:
- Corner Brook City Hall;
- Grenfell Campus Arts and Science Extension;
- Lewisporte Community Health Facility
- Memorial University Faculty of Medicine Expansion and the Centre for Human Genetics
- St. John’s and Corner Brook Long-Term Care Facilities; and
- Paradise Double Ice Complex
The Award also highlights government’s broader work within the public sector to promote sustainable building practices, including the development of technical guides on constructing energy efficient homes, small buildings and larger commercial buildings, and education and outreach initiatives such as Turn Back the Tide and Hotshots.
To read more about provincial actions to encourage green building, check out the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's news release.
To find out more about the CaGBC Awards, visit: http://www.cagbc.org/News/EN/2017/20170601_News_Release.aspx
And if you are interested in learning about constructing energy efficient buildings, you can consult the Guide to Building Energy Efficiency Homes and Small Buildings or the Guide to Better Building Envelopes for Large Buildings.
What’s New: Celebrate Environment Week by Taking Climate Action and Getting Outside to Enjoy the Natural Environment | June 5, 2017
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June 5th is Word Environment Day, which marks the first day of Canadian Environment Week (June 5-11). Canada is the host for World Environment Day 2017, themed Connecting People to Nature, and is at the centre of these global celebrations (see: http://worldenvironmentday.global/en/about/connecting-people-nature). Our oceans, forests and soils absorb a tremendous amount of greenhouse gases emissions, thus reducing the amount that enters the atmosphere and helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. This year’s theme is an opportunity to reflect on the impact climate change is having on our natural environment, the services a healthy natural environment provide, and ways you can reduce your impact and take climate action.
Climate change is projected to bring warmer, wetter and stormier weather in Newfoundland and Labrador. The province is already about 1.1 degrees Celsius warmer than it was 50 years ago and by 2050, the province is projected to be warmer still. These changes in weather will result in increased coastal erosion, the introduction of new pests and invasive species, as well as permafrost and sea ice melt among other things.
World Environment Day and Canadian Environment Week provide a platform to showcase the importance of taking global action on climate change. For each day of Environment Week, the Turn Back The Tide Facebook page will share information about climate change in NL and suggestions of actions individuals can take to reduce their environmental footprint. Please follow our posts and explore the Turn Back the Tide website for more tips and resources on taking action.
Net Metering Provides New Opportunities for Small Scale Renewable Energy in Newfoundland and Labrador | May 30, 2017
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The Public Utilities Board (PUB) has approved a net metering program for the province, which will come into effect on July 1, 2017. Net metering will permit utility customers to generate electricity from small scale renewable sources such as solar or wind, and allow users to both feed electricity into the grid when they generate excess, and to draw electricity from the grid when their own generation does not meet their needs. The value of any excess electricity will be credited to the customer’s bill, based on the marginal cost.
Net metering originated in the 1980’s to encourage investment in renewable energy sources. While the parameters of net metering policies may vary across jurisdictions, their essence is the same. Net metering allows excess electricity generated by utility customers through small scale, on-site renewable energy, to be sent back to the electricity grid. ‘Net metering’ refers to the billing system that makes this transaction possible. Utility customers only pay for their ‘net’ consumption of electricity, i.e. the amount of electricity that is used, minus the electricity that is provided back to the grid.
When the program comes into effect on July 1, 2017, utility customers in the province will be permitted to install renewable energy systems, sized to their electricity load, up to a maximum of 100 kilowatts/year (the average homeowner uses between 10-15 kilowatts/year). Net metering will provide residents in the province with new opportunities to use renewable energy, reduce their electricity costs, and will also support growth in the renewable energy sector.
For more information on the Order of the PUB on net metering, please visit: http://www.pub.nf.ca/orders/order2017/pu/PU17-2017.PDF
New Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Installed at the Avalon Mall | May 15, 2017
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As of May 11, electric vehicle (EV) owners will be able to plug in their vehicle while visiting the Avalon Mall in St. John’s. Representatives from the Avalon Mall were joined by Green Rock Electric Vehicle Solutions and the Honourable Perry Trimper, Minister Responsible for the Office of Climate Change, to unveil two new Level Two EV charging stations located in the Mall’s underground parking garage.
The number of EV charging stations is continuing to grow in Newfoundland and Labrador. These two new stations join existing and planned installations across the province, including those located at 351 Water Street, the Beclin Business Park, the Janeway, and at various locations along the Trans-Canada Highway.
What are Level Two Charging Stations?
Level two chargers are considered one of the most practical ways to charge an EV. These stations can typically charge an EV in three to eight hours, and can add between 15 and 30 kilometres to its range per hour of charging.
If you are interested in learning more about EV’s, you can find a report developed by the Provincial Government on EV technology, infrastructure and market developments at: http://www.exec.gov.nl.ca/exec/occ/publications/electric_veh_report.pdf
New Report Highlights Canadians’ Awareness of Flood Risk | May 11, 2017
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A new Report released by the University of Waterloo Faculty of Environment found that, in general, Canadians are not aware of their flood risks and are unprepared for flooding events, even though the costs associated with flooding continue to rise and flood risk is increasing due to climate change.
Researchers surveyed 2,300 Canadians from across the country that live in known flood risk areas. Amongst others, key findings revealed that:
- Only 6 per cent of respondents knew they resided in a flood-risk area;
- Less than 30 per cent of respondents are taking action to protect their property from flooding;
- 74 per cent of respondents did not think they are vulnerable to flooding, despite living in areas at a heightened risk of flooding; and
- Over 90 per cent of respondents believed that flood risk maps should be made publicly available, that sellers of property should disclose flood risk, and that property owners should be notified if their home falls within a flood risk area.
In light of these findings, the Report recommends that:
- Governments inform Canadians about what is expected of them, what could happen if a flood occurs, and which actions are best for their home;
- A national flood risk strategy be developed that encourages property-level flood protection by communicating the risks of flooding for homeowners though flood risk maps and disclosure during real estate transactions; and
- Governments, insurers and homeowners work together to develop policies that ensure insurance is available by sharing financial responsibility for flood damage in high risk areas.
To read the Report in its entirety, visit: https://uwaterloo.ca/partners-for-action/projects-and-programs/flood-risk-homeowner-awareness
Flood Risk Tools and Resources for Newfoundland and Labrador
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has developed tools and resources to assist decision-makers in preparing for flooding events in the province. These include:
- Flood risk maps for various locations throughout the province;
- Flood alert system updates to help communities prepare for storms;
- Intensity-Duration-Frequency Curves for use by engineers and planners in designing and managing infrastructure; and
- Climate projections that identify how the province’s climate is projected to change by mid-century.
If you are interested in learning more about these resources, visit: http://www.turnbackthetide.ca/tools-and-resources/climate-data-and-tools.shtml
Senate Committee Seeks Views on Climate Change in Newfoundland and Labrador | May 9, 2017
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Members of the Senate Standing Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources were in St. John’s on May 1, 2017 seeking views on the effects of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, as required to meet Canada’s 2030 target of a 30 per cent reduction below 2005 levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
In March 2016, the Committee was authorized to identify and report on the impacts of transitioning to a low-carbon economy across sectors, including households, business and large industry, and to provide recommendations to the federal government on how to achieve Canada’s GHG reduction target in the most sustainable and affordable manner.
Representatives from Fortis, Nalcor, the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association, the St. John’s Board of Trade and the provincial government met with the Committee to provide input into the review process. Feedback provided will be incorporated into a final report of the Committee, which is expected to be released by the end of 2017.
What is the Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources?
Committees are a central part of the Senate's work, and are often recognized for their contribution to federal legislation and public policy. The Committee is mandated to study issues related to energy and the environment, including mines, energy transportation and climate change.
Previously, the Committee has examined issues such as sustainable development, environmental protection, and implementation of the Kyoto Protocol.
To find out more about the Committee and its work, visit: https://sencanada.ca/en/committees/enev/41-1
Research Expedition Exploring Effects of Climate Change on the Northwest Atlantic Ocean | May 5, 2017
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A group of international scientists departed St. John’s on April 27th, on-board the Celtic Explorer, to conduct a month-long research expedition examining the impact of climate change on the Atlantic Ocean.
Climate change is caused by an increased accumulation of greenhouse gases, largely resulting from the burning of fossil fuels, which are trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere. The Atlantic Ocean absorbs a significant amount of the world’s carbon dioxide, acting as a carbon sink, and thus plays a crucial role in regulating our climate by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This not only helps control temperatures in Europe and Eastern Canada, but also supports aquatic ecosystems by delivering oxygen to the ocean interior. The absorption rate however is decreasing, and will likely pose impacts to both the ocean ecosystems and our climate.
The trans-Atlantic voyage from St. John’s to Galway, Ireland is part of a Global Ocean Ship-based Hydrographic Investigations Program (GO-SHIP) survey. Every 30 miles, the research vessel will collect water samples from the sea floor, offering a tremendous amount of data to help the research team study the present and future impacts of climate change, the movement of nutrients and oxygen by ocean currents, and acidification rates on the ocean’s ecosystem. This expedition is being led by the Marine Institute of Galway, Ireland - a partner of the newly formed Ocean Frontier Institute (OFI), which was co-founded by Memorial University, University of Prince Edward Island, and Dalhousie University.
This research expedition provides a unique opportunity for scientists across the globe to collaborate and share their technology, expertise and also results from the on-board measurements, ultimately improving our understanding of the impacts of climate change, and creating tangible outcomes.
Provincial Government Announces Two New Energy Efficiency Programs | April 27, 2017
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As part of Budget 2017, the Provincial Government announced $9 million in funding over three years for two new home-energy-efficiency programs: The Home Energy Savings Program (HESP) and the Home Energy Efficiency Program (HEELP). Together, these programs are intended to assist homeowners reliant on electric heat and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Energy efficiency improvements can reduce household energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Home Energy Savings Program (HESP)
The Home Energy Savings Program (HESP) is a provincial initiative designed to assist low-income households heating their home with electricity. HESP will be delivered over three years by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) and will provide non-repayable grants of up to $5,000 to assist eligible households in making energy efficiency upgrades to their homes, including insulation and air sealing.
To be eligible for HESP, households must satisfy the following criteria:
- The applicant must own the home in which the products will be installed
- The home must be an existing home;
- Applicants must have an annual household income of less than $32,500;
- The home must consume a minimum of 15,000 kWh of electricity annually or more; and
- Prior to receiving the grant, the applicant’s home must undergo a home energy assessment by an NLHC auditor.
The program will be open for applications on July 4, 2017. Applications and further program details can be obtained in July 2017, by visiting http://www.nlhc.nf.ca/programs/programs.html or calling NLHC at (709) 724-3000.
Home Energy Efficiency Loan Program (HEELP)
The Home Energy Efficiency Loan Program (HEELP) is a joint initiative between the Provincial Government’s Office of Climate Change and takeCHARGE, to be delivered in partnership with Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro over three years.
Through HEELP, eligible applicants can receive low-interest financing of Prime plus 1.5 per cent for up to $10,000 over five years towards the purchase and installation of heat pumps and insulation. Approved applicants will be required to repay the loan through their electricity bill.
To be eligible for HEELP, households must satisfy the following criteria:
- The applicant must own the home in which the products will be installed;
- The home must be an existing home;
- The home must consume a minimum of 15,000 kWh annually or more; and
- The applicant must pass a credit approval process.
The program will start expecting applications in October 2017. Applications and further program details can be obtained beginning in October 2017, by visiting https://takechargenl.ca/ or by phoning Newfoundland Power at 1-800-663-2802 or Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro at 1-888-737-1296.
Provincial Greenhouse Gas Emissions for 2015 | April 20, 2017
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The Government of Canada released its 2015 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions estimates, including detailed information for provinces and territories, on April 13, 2017. Newfoundland and Labrador emissions for 2015 were 10.3 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). This is 2.5 per cent lower than 2014. On a per capita basis, emissions also decreased from 2014 by 2.6 per cent to 19.5 tonnes per person.
Nearly half of all of the province’s GHG emissions in 2015 came from large onshore industry (namely, Iron Ore Company of Canada, North Atlantic Refining, Voisey’s Bay and the Long Harbour hydromet facility), the Holyrood Generating Station, and the three offshore oil platforms (Hibernia, Terra Nova, White Rose). Transportation is the second largest contributor followed by fuel use in buildings and waste .
In the Way Forward, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador committed to releasing a new Climate Change Action Plan in 2017/18.
For more detailed information, the full National Inventory Report 1990-2015: Greenhouse Gas Sources and Sinks in Canada and supporting documents can be found at:
http://www.ec.gc.ca/ges-ghg/default.asp?lang=En&n=662F9C56-1
BuildGreen Atlantic 2017 Being Held in St. John’s | April 5, 2017
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The annual BuildGreen Atlantic Conference is taking place at the Holiday Inn in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on April 6, 2017. This annual conference is hosted by the Canadian Green Building Council’s (CaGBC’s) Atlantic Chapter, and brings together a variety green building professionals, including architects, engineers, policymakers and individuals in the construction industry to network and share best practices.
The event will include a luncheon keynote address delivered by Dr. Drury Crawley, a Bentley Fellow and Director of Building Performance, with Bentley Systems Inc. who has over 35 years of experience in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability. Dr. Crawley will speak about getting from Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDGs) to Net-Zero Energy Buildings.
Among other events, BuildGreen Atlantic will include a workshop focused on how projects in Newfoundland and Labrador can qualify for recognition under the Leadership and Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification system, as well as a series of presentations on other topics such as:
- Energy benchmarking;
- Resilient design and achieving green building standards with air movement; and
- Available takeCHARGE rebates for commercial customers, including new lighting rebates.
To learn more about the BuildGreen Atlantic Conference or to register to attend, visit: http://www.cagbc.org/CAGBC/Chapters/Atlantic/BuildGreen_Atlantic.aspx
2017 Federal Budget Provides Funding for Climate Change and Clean Growth | March 28, 2017
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On March 22, the Federal Government’s 2017 budget was tabled in the House of Commons. The Budget reaffirms federal commitments to transition to a low-carbon economy, and includes a number of investments to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, spur clean technology growth, and help communities and individuals adapt to a changing climate. Highlights include:
Climate Change Infrastructure Investments
- $21.9 billion over 11 years to support green infrastructure and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. This includes:
- $9.2 billion to support priority provincial and territorial projects, including those that reduce GHG emissions, help adapt to climate change, and improve electricity systems;
- $5 billion for green infrastructure projects, including those that reduce GHG emissions, deliver clean air and safe water systems, and promote renewable energy; and
- $2.8 billion for a series of national programs, including:
- $2 billion for a Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund to support national, provincial and municipal infrastructure required to deal with the effects of a changing climate;
- $100 million to support smart grid, storage and clean electricity technology demonstration projects;
- $220 million to reduce the reliance on diesel fuel for rural and remote communities;
- $120 million for electric vehicle charging stations and demonstration projects; and
- $182 million to develop and implement building codes for retrofitting existing buildings and building new net-zero energy buildings.
Additional GHG Reduction Investments
- $11.4 million over four years to accelerate the phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation by 2030.
- $21.4 million over four years to continue the Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity Program.
- $56.9 million over four years to develop GHG regulations in the marine, rail, aviation and vehicle sectors.
- $17.2 million over five years to develop and implement heavy-duty vehicle and off-road regulations, as well as a clean fuel standard.
- $67.5 over four years million to renew and continue existing energy efficiency programs.
Additional Adaptation Investments (Over 5 Years)
- $83.8 million to support climate change adaptation measures in Indigenous communities.
- $73.5 million to establish a new Canadian Centre for Climate Services to improve access to climate science and regional climate resilience centres.
- $47 million to develop a national action plan to respond to the health risks of climate change.
- $18 million to implement a climate change and health adaptation program for First Nations and Inuit communities.
Clean Technology Investments
- $1.4 billion over three years in new financing to help clean technology firms grow and expand.
- $75 million over two years to address challenges such as helping Canada’s rural and remote communities reduce their reliance on diesel as a power source.
To read more about the 2017 federal budget’s investments in clean growth and climate change, visit: http://www.budget.gc.ca/2017/home-accueil-en.html
WMO Releases 2016 “State of the Global Climate” Report | March 27, 2017
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On March 21, 2017, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released its annual State of the Global Climate report. The report presents a detailed analysis of global climate trends based on multiple datasets from climate research centres and institutes from around the world.
The report found that 2016 was the warmest year on record globally, and one in which carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere reached new highs while Arctic sea ice was at record lows for large parts of the year. Key findings from the WMO report include:
- Global temperatures in 2016 were 1.1 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial period, and 0.06 degrees Celcius above the previous record set in 2015;
- Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide – one of the main greenhouse gases causing climate change – reached new highs at 400 parts per million;
- Global sea ice extent dropped more than 4 million square kilometers below average;
- Global sea levels rose to new record highs in early 2016, during the 2015-16 El Niño;
- Global ocean temperatures were the second highest on record;
- Severe droughts and floods displaced hundreds of thousands of people;
The report notes that temperatures in 2016 were "substantially influenced" by a powerful El Niño year, which contributed an additional 0.1 to 0.2 degrees to the longer-term warming driven by greenhouse gas emissions. However, even without a strong El Niño this year, extreme weather events have continued in 2017, including the Polar equivalent of “heatwaves” in the Arctic and record lows in Antarctic sea ice.
While global temperatures have continued to rise, average temperatures in Newfoundland and Labrador have not experienced the same dramatic changes in recent years, although they have been higher than historical averages.
The full report is available online at http://library.wmo.int/opac/doc_num.php?explnum_id=3414
Participate in Earth Hour this Saturday March 25th at 8:30 p.m. | March 23, 2017
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On Saturday, March 25th, shine a light on climate action by switching off your lights and switching on your social power. At 8:30 p.m. (in your local time zone) individuals and organizations across the province are encouraged to participate in Earth Hour by turning off their lights for one hour to show a commitment to the cause of climate action.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Earth Hour, a worldwide movement to unite people to take action against climate change, one of the biggest environment challenges of our time. Since its inception in Sydney, Australia, in 2007, Earth Hour has engaged hundreds of millions of supporters in over 175 countries and territories worldwide.
The Earth Hour movement is an opportunity to raise awareness and take action against climate change.
Earth Hour traditionally involves turning off your lights as a symbolic gesture, from 8:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. but there are lots of ways you can participate. You could let your friends know about action you are taking to reduce your carbon footprint, coordinate an environmentally-themed event, or promote action through social media by donating your Facebook feed to Earth Hour or by using their logo on your website and social media platforms. Turning off the lights is just the beginning! For more information and resources on how to get involved, visit www.earthhour.org.
As the world stands at a climate crossroads, it is powerful yet humbling to think that our actions today will decide what tomorrow will look like for generations to come.
FCM Launches Two New Climate Change-Oriented Programs | March 8, 2017
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The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) has announced two new programs that will provide funding, training and learning opportunities to help municipalities across Canada take action on climate change and build their capacity for infrastructure planning and management. Both programs are funded by the Government of Canada.
Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program
This program will help municipalities adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as more extreme storms, rising temperatures and sea levels, coastal erosion, and flooding. It also provides supports for municipalities who are seeking to tackle climate change by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions.
The program offers funding and learning opportunities designed to enable municipalities to address challenges related to climate change, including:
- Plans and studies grants;
- FCM’s Climate and Asset Management Network;
- Regional and national-scale climate initiatives;
- Demonstration project grants; and
- Staff support grants
For more details on the Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program, see http://www.fcm.ca/home/programs/municipalities-for-climate-innovation-program/
Municipal Asset Management Program
This program is a five-year, $50-million program designed to help Canadian municipalities make better informed infrastructure investment decisions using sound asset management practices. It will help municipal decision-makers get the most out of their infrastructure investments, including supports for taking account of the impacts of climate change in the design and construction of assets such as roads, recreational facilities, and water and wastewater systems.
The program will be focused on initiatives in three key areas:
- Training opportunities delivered by FCM and partner organizations;
- Funding to help municipalities adopt asset management practices; and
- Knowledge sharing and networking
For more details on the Municipal Asset Management Program, see https://fcm.ca/home/programs/municipal-asset-management-program/
Questions?
To learn more about these funding and training opportunities, call or e-mail an FCM advisor at 1-877-997-9926 or
programs@fcm.ca
Join the Youth Innovation Challenge! | March 7, 2017
What is your idea to tackle environmental issues and spur environmentally sustainable economic growth?
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On February 21st the Commission for Environmental Cooperation launched the North American Youth Innovation Challenge. This is a call for youth to present their ideas on how to tackle key environmental issues in a way that can also grow the green economy.
More specifically, the challenge is seeking proposals related to any of the following:
- Reducing air emissions
- Reducing and diverting food waste
- Preventing and managing invasive species
- Reducing and managing marine litter
- Mitigating the impacts of ocean acidification
Submit your bold idea for the chance to receive $5,000 in seed funding and present your innovation to North America’s top environmental officials in Charlottetown, PEI. Youth aged 18-26 from across Canada, Mexico and the United States are encouraged to apply.
Details
The Youth Innovation Challenge has two key phases: the idea and proposal phase. In the idea phase, participants share their ideas in an online portal, which can be commented on and voted by other registered participants. These will be evaluated by a Joint Public Advisory Committee, who will then evaluate the ideas and select a limited number to advance to the proposal phase. Semifinalists are invited to build a proposal on the idea, which will be submitted to a panel of judges consisting of government officials from Canada, Mexico and the United States. Three proposals will be selected to present their proposal to North America’s top environmental officials at the Commission for Environmental Cooperation Council Session, scheduled for 27–28 June 2017, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Further to this, they will receive $5,000 in seed funding to get their initiative off the ground.
Important Dates
- Tuesday, February 21: Challenge begins
- Sunday, April 30: Last day to comment and submit ideas
- Friday, May 5: Top ideas selected for refinement
- Monday, May 22: Full proposals for the top 6-9 ideas are submitted to the judges
- Wednesday, June 7: Winning ideas announced
- Wednesday, June 28: Winning individuals or group leads present their ideas to top environmental officials in Charlottetown, Canada
For More information please visit: https://cec.ideascale.com/
Applications for ACOA’s Clean Technology Initiative due March 31 | March 3, 2017
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The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA’s) Clean Technology Initiative is currently accepting proposals from companies, communities and non-profit organizations across Atlantic Canada. This Call to Action is seeking innovative projects that accelerate clean growth and support the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable economy.
This initiative is part of the Atlantic Growth Strategy – a federal-provincial initiative announced in July 2016 that included Clean Growth and Climate Change as a key action area. ACOA has allocated $20 million for clean technology projects in 2016-17. Applications should be submitted on or before March 31, 2017.
Clean technology refers to products, processes and services that enhance environmental performance, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using energy more efficiently. Such technologies support sustainable development and foster new opportunities for innovation and economic diversification.
To find out more about ACOA’s Clean Technology Initiative and to seek funding for your project, visit http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/eng/ImLookingFor/ProgramInformation/Pages/Clean-Technology-Initiative.aspx
takeCHARGE Launches Initiatives Aimed at Electricity Customers and Municipalities | February 10, 2017
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Two initiatives were recently launched by takeCHARGE to help promote energy efficiency and conservation amongst municipalities and electricity customers across the province. The new MyHome tool helps customers understand and find ways to reduce their electricity costs, while the annual "takeCHARGE of Your Town" initiative is offering a grant to cities and towns for energy efficiency projects. Both initiatives are outlined below.
takeCHARGE is a collaboration of the province’s two electricity utilities – Newfoundland Power and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro – that raises awareness on energy efficiency and delivers rebate programs to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
New MyHome Tool
takeCHARGE’s new MyHome tool helps electricity customers understand and reduce their electricity use. It provides new insights into how a home uses electricity, how it compares to similar homes in a given area, and will offer users personalized energy-saving advice.
To learn more and sign up, visit https://takechargenl.ca/residential/rebate-programs/myhome-web-portal/. Complete your home profile by February 28, 2017 for a chance to WIN an iPad.
takeCHARGE of Your Town 2017
takeCHARGE of Your Town is aimed at encouraging residents and municipalities across Newfoundland and Labrador to reduce their electricity use. Over the past five years, this initiative has awarded more than $55,000 to successful cities and towns.
This year, a grant of $7,500 is available to be won, and takeCHARGE is inviting municipalities to submit proposals that promote energy conservation or energy efficiency. Eligible projects could include energy efficiency upgrades to a town hall or municipal building. Last year, two winners were selected:
Town of Bay Roberts/Bay Arena
- New LED light fixtures for the ice surface of the Bay Arena will provide higher-quality lighting for skaters, and save over 60 per cent in annual energy costs.
Town of Roddickton-Bide Arm
- The Town arena’s lighting will be upgraded to save energy, reduce operating and maintenance costs, and do a better job of lighting the rink.
The application deadline is February 24, 2017 at 4:00pm, and successful proposals will be announced in spring 2017. To find out more or to submit a proposal, visit https://takechargenl.ca/news-events/town-challenge/.
New Climate Change Challenge Trivia Contest! | February 9, 2017
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Enter to win a Climate Action Prize Pack by testing your climate change and energy efficiency knowledge. All the answers can be easily found on www.turnbackthetide.ca.
Contest Details
There will be five questions over five days with grand prize draw on February 20, 2017, for a Climate Action Prize Pack which includes:
- Programmable thermostat
- Energy monitor
- LED lightbulbs
- Low-flow showerhead and faucet aerators
- Weather stripping
- Reusable lunch bag, tote bag and recycled pencils
Prizes have been provided courtesy of takeCHARGE and the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board.
To enter, visit www.facebook.com/turnbackthetide and:
- LIKE the trivia question posts (and follow us to keep up!)
- COMMENT with your answer each day
- MOST-LIKED COMMENTS will get a bonus entry – so share with your friends!
For the complete set of contest rules, see: Climate Change Challenge Trivia Contest Rules.
Western Health Completes Energy Efficiency Upgrades | February 6, 2017
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Western Health is doing its part to help tackle climate change and improve the energy efficiency of its operations. The regional health authority recently announced the completion of a $5.8 million energy-saving and facility renewal program with Honeywell spanning 12 buildings across the region. Facility upgrades and conservation measures completed include:
- Lighting upgrades;
- Building automation system recommissioning and expansion;
- Various mechanical equipment upgrades;
- Building envelope improvements; and
- Central plant upgrades including new steam boiler and chiller.
These improvements are expected to reduce Western Health’s utility bills by $374,000 per year, representing 10.3% of electricity and oil costs, and these savings are guaranteed through a 12-year performance contract with Honeywell. As a result of these energy savings, Western Health estimates that their greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by nearly 523 metric tons per year – which they indicate is equivalent to taking 175 medium-sized cars off the road.
Recognizing that energy-efficient buildings are also more comfortable for staff, clients, patients and residents, the health care sector is showing leadership on sustainable buildings in Newfoundland and Labrador. Long term care facilities in St. John’s and Corner Brook have achieved Silver status under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) rating program for sustainable buildings, and several other health care facilities across the province are actively seeking certification.
Commercial and institutional buildings, like those operated by Western Health, account for approximately 6 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions in Newfoundland and Labrador. In addition, the commercial and institutional sector accounts for approximately 10 per cent of the province’s total energy usage.
To learn more about how buildings and energy efficiency are being considered in the development of a new provincial climate change action plan, visit www.gov.nl.ca/TalkClimateChange.
Climate Change Consultations “What We Heard” Document Released | January 24, 2017
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The Provincial Government has released a “What We Heard” document summarizing the ideas and suggestions of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians on how to tackle climate change. The document outlines key issues and themes that emerged during public consultations to inform a provincial climate change action plan set for release in fall 2017.
The public consultations were held from June to September 2016 and included:
- 11 in-person and virtual sessions;
- Over 200 participants;
- 43 written and online submissions;
- 20 stakeholder meetings; and
- Over 1,000 comments received.
The “What We Heard” document is available online at www.gov.nl.ca/TalkClimateChange, along with all of the unedited comments that were recorded by note takers at the public consultation sessions, as well as all of the written and online submissions that were received.
For more information about the process and what comes next, see the Provincial Government news release.
CaGBC Launches 2017 Greenest School in Canada Competition | January 18, 2017
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The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and the Canada Coalition for Green Schools are looking for the greenest school in Canada, and your school could be it! This annual competition highlights K-12 schools across Canada that demonstrate how sustainability can be integrated into a school’s buildings, culture, and curriculum. Winning entries in previous years have included various climate change initiatives, such as awareness-raising events and campaigns, waste reduction and composting programs, and student-led renewable energy projects.
As shown by 2016’s winning school in Calgary, a green school is about more than just sustainable buildings and infrastructure. A truly green school considers the environment in many ways including: empowering educators to engage and inspire environmentally-literate students, creating healthier spaces for learning and playing, and working with communities to foster more sustainable neighbourhoods. So even if your school is in an older building, you can still compete.
Read on to learn more about what’s up for grabs, which schools are eligible to enter, judging criteria, and how to apply.
What Does the Greenest School in Canada Win?
- The winning school will receive $2,000 in prize money to put towards a green activity, as well as the prestigious title of Greenest School in Canada; and
- The winner will also be submitted as the official Canadian entry into the Greenest School on Earth competition, held by U.S. Green Building Council’s Center for Green Schools.
Which Schools are Eligible?
- All Canadian schools offering any grade from kindergarten to grade 12 are eligible for the Greenest School in Canada competition.
What are the Judging Criteria?
- Efficient use of resources and reduced environmental impact;
- Enhanced health and learning among students, teachers and staff; and
- Emphasis on sustainability and resource-conservation education.
How can I Apply?
- Get a school official, such as a teacher, principal, staff or member of a parent advisory council, to complete and submit the online application form. Applications are due by April 30, 2017.
For more information or to get started on your application, visit the CaGBC’s website. CaGBC is also offering a free “Tips and Tricks” webinar on January 25 for schools looking for extra help with their submission, hosted by two teachers from winning schools in previous years.
Post-Secondary Academic Institutions Combating Climate Change | January 17, 2017
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Through research, programming, and energy efficiency retrofits, post-secondary academic institutions across the country are working to tackle climate change, including here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Some highlights from Memorial University, Yukon College, and Thomson Rivers University in British Columbia include:
- A Memorial University waste audit revealed that 70 per cent of the main dining hall’s waste was organic food waste. Driven by student demand and supported by the university, a pilot project was launched to gather and transport all organic food waste from the dining hall to the nearby Botanical Garden for composting. Finished compost is then used for the community garden, reducing the need for added fertilizer which emits nitrous oxide – a potent greenhouse gas. The pilot’s success has led to the continuation and expansion of this initiative. For more information, see this article published in the university’s Gazette.
- Yukon College launched a new post-graduate degree in Climate Change Policy. The program combines theoretical and applied learning in a northern, Yukon-focused context. The certificate is an online, part-time program, offered largely through distance education with a two-week field school component in Yukon. The program is interdisciplinary, and will focus on climate change science and the associated impacts on socio-economic systems, particularly as it relates to policy. For more information, see the program description.
- Thomson Rivers University was recognized as an energy conservation leader by British Columbia Hydro. By identifying sustainability as one of its five strategic priorities, and establishing a five-year Campus Strategy Sustainability Plan with ambitious energy management goals, Thomson Rivers saved $500,000 in utility costs in 2016. These savings, as a percentage of total energy consumption, are higher than those achieved by any other post-secondary institution in British Columbia. For more information on this energy-saving initiative, as well as the Campus Strategy Sustainability Plan, see this article.
For more information on post-secondary sustainability programs and initiatives across North America, visit the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s website at http://www.aashe.org/
National Building Code Training to be Held in St. John’s | January 9, 2017
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The Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Newfoundland and Labrador (CHBA-NL), in partnership with the National Research Council of Canada, is offering training on the major technical changes to the 2015 edition of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at the Holiday Inn in St. John’s. This one-day seminar is designed to raise awareness of, and help code users better understand new features and technical updates to the NBC, including energy efficiency requirements. In 2013, the NBC was updated to include energy efficiency requirements. Legislation in Newfoundland and Labrador requires that municipalities adopt the NBC and any amendments, including energy efficiency provisions.
The intended audience for this session includes:
- Homebuilders;
- Building code officials and inspectors;
- Municipalities;
- Manufacturers;
- Architects and engineers; and
- Any others with an interest in construction codes.
Interested participants must register by January 23, 2017 by phoning (709) 753-2000, or by emailing admin@chbanl.ca
For more information on this session, visit: http://chbanl.ca/
Cold Weather Driving Tips to Get Through a Harsh Winter | January 5, 2017
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With winter setting in across Newfoundland and Labrador, vehicle fuel economy is starting to drop along with the temperatures. See the list below for some practical winter driving tips that can help save energy and reduce emissions across a variety of different vehicles.
All Vehicles
- Limit idling. Most cars need less than a minute to warm up the engine, and will start warming up the cabin faster when they are driven. Limiting idling time will help save fuel, reduce emissions, and warm up your car faster.
- Keep your tires properly inflated. Cold temperatures lead to lower tire pressures, which can lower your fuel economy. Check your tires against the recommended pressure posted on the inside of the driver's side door and in the owner's manual.
- Choose the most efficient winter tires. Make sure your tires are appropriately rated for conditions in your area, and if it's time to replace them, look for low-rolling resistance tires for improved fuel economy.
- Keep up with your maintenance and oil changes. Harsh winter conditions can make car appointments a real pain, but they can also really take their toll on a poorly maintained car. Regular maintenance can help boost fuel economy and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Electric Vehicles and Plug-in Hybrids
- Warm up the car while it's still plugged in. Pre-conditioning the cabin before you unplug your electric vehicle saves battery power, which can help extend your all-electric range and boost your overall fuel economy.
- Use heated seats instead of cabin heaters. Unlike a conventional car, most electric car heaters are battery-powered and can't recover waste heat from the engine. Heated seats are a more efficient way to keep warm while saving energy and improving range.
- Allow extra time to charge. Battery performance generally drops in colder temperatures, and that can increase the time it takes to charge. Where possible, plan ahead and make sure you have a topped-up battery before you leave.
- Park in a sheltered or sunlit area. Parking in a heated garage is ideal for battery charging and pre-conditioning the cabin, but if you don't have access to one, try parking in direct sunlight instead.
To learn more about cold weather driving and how it affects different types of vehicles, visit http://www.canadianfuels.ca/Blog/November-2016/Cold-weather-tips-for-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids/.