Communities across the country are making strides to save energy in their daily operations in their quest to meet our national target of reaching net zero by 2050.
And because of these efforts, Canadians are discovering how to live a greener life, from solar-powered homes to green public transit infrastructures. Below we will take a closer look at some of the top energy-saving cities in Canada.
Vancouver
Vancouver is leading the charge with its sustainable initiatives and green infrastructure. It’s home to forward-thinking initiatives such its Zero Waste 2040 waste management program, its eco-buildings and its green roofs, including the world’s largest living roof.
It also publicly funds projects that retrofit existing buildings to be more efficient. This city is a prime example of how to reduce our carbon footprint in a high-impact way. It has also planted 122,000 trees in the city since 2010. With a target of 150,000 trees, this city is a real-life example of going green.
Victoria
The capital of British Columbia, Victoria, is a beautiful city full of scenic views and stunning architecture. It’s also making great strides in energy efficiency.
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The region has adopted several green initiatives, such as incentivizing solar panel installation, introducing composting programs and encouraging sustainable transportation options like electric vehicles to reduce its carbon footprint.
Victoria’s citizens are devoted cycle commuters, and there’s plenty of infrastructure in place to support it. The city is equipped with hundreds of biking paths and miles of bike lanes spanning its municipality, providing a safe and convenient way for locals to get around.
From scenic trails like the Galloping Goose Regional Trail to quick transport for locals getting to work, this cycling capital shows that cities can be sustainable in more ways than one.
Oshawa
With a strategic location just 60 kilometers from Toronto, Oshawa is the perfect place for those seeking a well-rounded balance of urban appeal with suburban tranquility.
With its award-winning “Oshawa Energy Solutions Program,” this city aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement renewable energy initiatives such as solar power and wind turbines. This is great if you wish to cut your electricity bill while experiencing smaller city life.
For those wanting to get out of the big city, moving to Oshawa is easy, as there are reliable removal carriers that can help you get there. With public transit options increasing all the time, you can still get in and out of Toronto easily while keeping your car off the road.
Québec City
Québec City is frequently named one of the top energy-saving cities in Canada and has been recognized on multiple occasions for its eco-friendly initiatives.
To reach this title, it has implemented measures such as retrofitting buildings with more efficient technology and providing subsidies to citizens who wish to install solar panels or other renewable energy sources on their property.
Additionally, it has developed an advanced public transit system with new electric buses and electric scooters that are available for rent in the city. This is just one of many initiatives implemented by Québec City to become a greener place to live and work.
Calgary
Calgary has become a major player in reducing its environmental impact by focusing on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.
The city is actively working to reduce emissions from buildings and transportation while encouraging residents to adopt green lifestyles through initiatives like green roofs, net-zero housing and low-carbon transportation.
Halifax
Halifax is leading the way in green projects with its commitment to reducing energy usage and emissions through local green businesses and sustainable living principles.
The city has a variety of programs, such as Halifax Solar City, which offers incentives for homeowners who install solar panels on their houses, and the Halifax Green Network Plan, which outlines strategies to manage open spaces.
In addition, Halifax has implemented a ban on single-use plastic bags, which came into effect in 2020, showing the city’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Kelowna
Kelowna has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon production, initiatives such as green building standards and a sixty-one electric vehicle charging network.
In addition, Kelowna has a wealth of green businesses committed to sustainable practices, including renewable energy sources, recycling programs and eco-friendly products.
Kelowna has also prioritized creating green spaces for its residents. Kelowna residents work toward conserving and restoring the natural environment to provide a natural habitat for all people and animals.
Kelowna boasts a lake, almost 200 wetlands and 27 creeks, connecting people to nature through hiking and outdoor experiences.
Prince Albert
The city is home to the largest solar farm in Saskatchewan, which helps power much of the city’s needs. Prince Albert also offers an array of eco-friendly programs such as a waste diversion program that encourages residents to reduce waste and energy consumption.
Prince Albert is also vested in promoting green living through its Eco-City initiative, which aims to create an environmentally sustainable city. Through this program, the City of Prince Albert is working to promote renewable energy sources such as geothermal, solar and wind power and encourage citizens to adopt green practices.
Toronto
Toronto is aiming to be one of the most eco-friendly cities in Canada, with numerous initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. For example, Toronto has many green buildings and businesses committed to sustainable practices like energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.
The city also has bike lanes for those who wish to cycle instead of using cars, which helps reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted from vehicles.
Additionally, Toronto has a net-zero initiative that sets energy efficiency standards for buildings and encourages green roofs, as well as an extensive waste management system with composting sites to help reduce the amount of trash sent to landfills.
Edmonton
Edmonton is making a concerted effort to reduce its environmental impact and become more eco-friendly. The city has implemented several initiatives, such as the Green Building Strategy, which aims to reduce buildings’ greenhouse gas emissions, save money and increase energy efficiency.
Edmonton also makes use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and geothermal. In addition to these initiatives, Edmonton offers several programs and incentives for homeowners committed to sustainability, including the Sustainable Energy Loans Program and the Commercial Solar Rebate Program.
These programs, and standards including BUILT GREEN® CANADA, reflect Edmonton’s drive to build comfortable, beautiful, sustainable and environmentally friendly homes.
Energy-saving cities across the country are taking steps to reduce emissions and energy consumption and promote sustainable living. From solar farms and electric vehicle charging networks to green businesses and waste diversion programs, these efforts are helping to move Canada towards a more environmentally friendly future.
Feature image: Adi K; Image 1: Lisa Bourgeault
