The A-C-T in HalifACT stands for Acting on Climate Together, which we all need to do in new and creative ways. We need to shift how we use energy, how we move people and goods, and how we build for the future. It’s going to take all of us, taking action to meet our collective goals. That’s where this list comes in: the most important thing you can do is act.
Using Energy
● Check out the latest programs and rebates for your home to use energy wisely and save money. Efficiency NS is Nova Scotia’s energy efficiency utility working with all Nova Scotians to make homes and businesses across the province more energy efficient. They offer a wide range of programs at no cost to you, like the free installation of energy efficient products in your home, free pickups of freezers and fridges, and more.
● Don’t forget the small things you can do like wash clothes in cold water, hang-dry clothes, and unplug electronics when not in use.
Moving People and Goods
● Imagine roads that are quiet, safe, and free of air pollution. By switching to an electric vehicle (EV), you can reduce emissions and save money on maintenance. Nova Scotia is currently the only province to offer a rebate for e-bikes as well as used and new EVs. Discover all the ways you can skip the gas station and reduce your emissions at EV Assist Nova Scotia.
● Choosing a green commute makes you healthier, happier, and saves money. The transportation sector made up 19% of Halifax’s GHG emissions in 2016. Choose an alternative transportation option such as walking, cycling, taking public transit, or carpooling at least once a week. Check if you are eligible for Halifax Transit’s SmartTrip program through your employer.
● Buy local. Support local businesses that prioritize sustainable options like low emission delivery vehicles and compostable take-out containers and cutlery.
● Make your meals more climate-friendly by purchasing organic and local produce, growing your own food and avoiding food waste as much as possible. Learn how to garden by joining a community garden.
Building for the Future
● Whenever renovating your home, be sure to make investments in residential energy upgrades that lower monthly costs, increase property values and improve the environment.
● The municipality of Halifax offers the Solar City program to access and finance innovative solar energy options for your home.
● Consider how your investments are contributing to a low carbon future. Speak to your financial advisor about socially responsible investments.
● Know what to do in the event of an extreme weather emergency. You can also review and contribute to the adaptation survey for your community. Consider volunteering for the Joint Emergency Management Teams in your region to help respond to a wide range of climate emergencies.
● The Climate Atlas of Canada is an educational resource to inspire Canadians to move towards resilience as well as inform about climate change through science, mapping, and storytelling.
● Use your voting power. Be sure to register to vote and inform yourself about the environmental policies of the candidates and parties. Ask climate-related questions of the candidates to let them know that addressing climate change is important to voters.
● Talk to your family and friends about climate change. Learn how to talk to people about climate change through CliMate, a fun and interactive chatbot using Facebook Messenger, to find empathy and common ground amongst people with varying viewpoints. Engage kids in conversation about climate change. A few places to start include the National Geographic’s changing climate resource library or a family guide to beginning a climate conversation.
● Focus on simple pleasures such as exploring nature and with your loved ones which can provide you with purpose, belonging and happiness. Think about how you consume. Start with sharing, making, fixing, upcycling, repurposing, and composting.
Do you have any other tips we could post here? Please email us.