Despite the controversy that surrounded Canada's dismal performance at last month's UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, it is important for all of us that greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction issues are kept in the forefront.
What can we do? Why should we? Will it make a difference? All of these are valid questions heard over and over and the answers will vary depending on whom you ask. However, one thing, which almost everyone can agree upon, is that any and all of the changes the climate change scientists urge us to make are ultimately beneficial to everyone and every living thing on this planet, regardless of the ongoing controversy. As such, it is only common sense that we strive to implement them. As individuals we can make a difference; by the choices we make in our day-to-day living, in our choice of purchases, by walking/cycling more and driving less, by reducing the amount of waste that goes to the landfill, by recycling and composting, by reducing energy usage, and complying with "no idling zones" for example.
The City of Thompson has recently been given a great opportunity not only to lead the way in environmental consciousness and GHG emission reductions but to also reap all the benefits of being proactive on this issue. Thompson has the honour of being selected as one of the 14 municipalities and community groups to take part in the Community Led Emission Reduction (CLER) pilot program, a provincial program supporting communities in their efforts to reduce their GHG emissions to meet Manitoba's Beyond Kyoto initiative. We are currently soliciting representation from within the community, both residents and businesses, to form a local advisory committee designed to guide, promote and implement the program. A series of workshops and two pubic consultation sessions are anticipated within the next four months.
A key part of the overall success of the CLER program is the involvement and input of the community, residents, businesses and local groups in the development of the local action plan. Funding in the form of grants will be available for projects and initiatives, which will reduce GHG emissions. The municipality has hired a local coordinator to work on the action plan and facilitate the implementation of the projects, which will help achieve the goal of a more sustainable community. Keep in mind that reduction in GHG emissions is the lens through which these projects will be screened.
By being proactive and taking such action, Thompson will benefit in many ways, including:
Improved health and safety: for example, an initiative that encourages people to walk or ride their bikes will encourage exercise and possibly reduce the use of motor vehicles, which improves air quality;
Cost savings; for instance, installing a solar panel in a swimming pool or a geothermal system will lower annual energy costs;
Protection of natural resources and habitat;
Local economic stability and development; and
Community resilience and adaptability.
For more information or details of the CLER program, to share ideas for projects or to get involved with the local advisory committee, please contact: Andrea Hatley, Thompson's climate change CLER co-ordinator by e-mail at: [email protected] or call 677-7766.
