The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has outlined ways in which temperature rise on the earth can be reduced. Much of the action takes place at the local level, in cities and municipalities.

The program outlined here focuses on existing residential homes and personal vehicles. In Burlington, the building sector is responsible for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. 27% is from the residential sector. Reductions of 2 to 4 tonnes annually of equivalent carbon dioxide per home are achievable. This represents 50% to 85% of the household emissions produced from heating and cooling in Ontario. Vehicles account for another 40% and switching from a gasoline car to an electric or plug-in hybrid can save…….continue reading