Vigorous Decarbonization
If you are 60 and asking “climate action, what’s in it for me?” the truth is, of course, very little. You will probably be dead before the worst hits.
But, many who are 60 and up believe that we must pay it forward. We inherited gifts from our families and communities and we must give to the future. By our actions, we can make future generations more prosperous and safe.
The most important action at the city level is to reduce natural gas and gasoline use. Toronto’s emissions are split almost 50/50 between these two uses.
What can Toronto City council do?
Direct Toronto Hydro to prepare for 100% electrification
Convert gas furnaces and gas hot water tanks to heat pump versions. Coordinate incentives and prohibit new hook-ups as the existing stock wears out.
Integrate electric vehicles into our congestion plans by supporting electric bikes and scooters, and requiring all new parking spots to have charge capability.
Phase out the Portland gas plant through the installation of an inlake transmission line from Pickering.
Combating climate change is a huge task! But it must be done. We should choose the cheapest, effective solutions. Doing only what is familiar is not going to get us there.
