Choices: How you can help

1. Energy Conservation

• Switch to green energy providers offering renewable sources like wind, hydro, and solar power.
• Install energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting at home.
• Insulate homes to reduce heating and cooling energy consumption.
• Use programmable thermostats to minimize energy waste.
• Participate in provincial or federal rebate programs for energy-saving upgrades.

2. Sustainable Transportation

• Use public transportation systems like buses, trains, and subways, which are well-developed in Canadian cities.
• Walk or bike for short distances using Canada’s expanding network of bike paths.
• Opt for electric or hybrid vehicles and take advantage of EV incentives.
• Join carpooling programs or use ride-sharing apps with green initiatives.
• Choose trains over short flights where possible, such as on VIA Rail routes.

3. Waste Reduction

• Separate waste into compostables, recyclables, and garbage following local guidelines.
• Participate in municipal composting programs or compost at home.
• Avoid single-use plastics by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
• Support local zero-waste stores for groceries and household products.
• Donate or sell unwanted items instead of discarding them.

4. Water Conservation

• Fix leaks promptly and install water-efficient devices like low-flow showerheads and faucets.
• Harvest rainwater for gardening or outdoor cleaning.
• Avoid overwatering lawns and gardens; use native plants that require less water.
• Support local watershed conservation efforts or community cleanup projects.
• Use eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce water pollution.

5. Sustainable Food Choices

• Buy local and seasonal produce to support Canadian farmers and reduce food transportation emissions.
• Reduce meat and dairy consumption and incorporate plant-based meals.
• Shop at farmers' markets or join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program.
• Avoid food waste by meal planning and preserving leftovers.
• Grow your own vegetables or herbs in a backyard garden or community plot.

6. Biodiversity and Green Spaces

• Participate in tree-planting events or support reforestation projects like Tree Canada.
• Create pollinator-friendly gardens with native plants to support bees and butterflies.
• Volunteer for local wildlife conservation programs or habitat restoration projects.
• Avoid using pesticides and herbicides in your garden.
• Explore and respect Canada’s national parks while leaving no trace.

7. Shopping and Consumption

• Support Canadian brands with sustainable and ethical practices.
• Shop second-hand or rent items instead of buying new.
• Choose products certified as environmentally friendly (e.g., FSC, Fair Trade).
• Avoid fast fashion and invest in durable, high-quality clothing.
• Use refillable and reusable options for household products.

8. Advocacy and Community Engagement

• Join environmental organizations like the David Suzuki Foundation or the Sierra Club Canada Foundation.
• Advocate for stronger climate policies and support local government sustainability initiatives.
• Participate in community clean-ups or events like Earth Day Canada.
• Support Indigenous-led conservation efforts to protect land and water.
• Host or attend workshops on sustainability and conservation.

9. Reduce Carbon Footprint

• Offset emissions from travel by purchasing carbon credits through programs like Less Emissions.
• Reduce air travel by choosing virtual meetings or exploring local destinations.
• Insulate homes and upgrade windows to reduce heating energy use in winter.
• Use electric or solar-powered water heaters.
• Participate in carbon reduction initiatives in your community.

10. Digital Footprint

• Use green search engines like Ecosia that plant trees with ad revenue.
• Delete unnecessary files and emails to reduce data storage energy consumption.
• Support websites and platforms that use eco-friendly hosting services.

11. Sustainable Tourism

• Choose eco-friendly accommodations certified by Green Key or similar programs.
• Support local businesses, artisans, and Indigenous tourism initiatives.
• Avoid using plastic or leaving waste in natural areas when exploring Canada’s national parks.
• Participate in wildlife conservation volunteer programs during your travels.

12. Support Regional and National Initiatives

• Participate in federal programs like Canada’s Net-Zero Emissions Initiative.
• Support reforestation efforts under programs like Growing Canada’s Forests.
• Join movements like Fridays for Future Canada to advocate for climate action.
• Contribute to local conservation groups protecting Canada’s rich ecosystems.

13. Technology and Innovation

• Use smart home technologies to conserve energy and water.
• Adopt solar panels and energy storage systems where feasible.
• Explore electric or hybrid lawn tools to reduce emissions.
• Support Canadian startups working on clean energy and sustainable technologies.