Tsunami Relief Update 

The federal government has been committed to helping those in the tsunami stricken areas of South and South East Asia.  Canada was one of the first donor countries to respond to the disaster and is one of the most significant contributors of humanitarian assistance. 

The federal government has pledged its support for those affected by the tsunami by allocating $425 million over five years for humanitarian aid and rehabilitation, and will participate in the long-term reconstruction of the region.  Canada’s highly trained and equipped Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) was sent to Sri Lanka, one of the hardest hit countries, in order to provide fresh drinking water, medical assistance and small infrastructure re-build projects. 

Canadian’s public response to the crisis has been exemplary.  Individuals responded to the Government’s pledge of matching public donations until January 11, 2005, by donating $200 million to non-governmental organizations.  The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) will receive proposals in the coming weeks and months to determine how best to distribute the funds matched by the Government of Canada.  

For more information visit, http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/canadatsunami-e

Kingston Family Accomplishes the One-Tonne Challenge 

Pictured here is the Hon. Peter Milliken, M.P., presenting the One-Tonne Challenge award to Linda Johnson for reducing her family’s greenhouse gas consumption.

On February 23, Peter Milliken and Mayor Harvey Rosen were on hand to present local resident Linda Johnson with an award for accomplishing the One-Tonne Challenge, initiated by the Government of Canada.   

“Canada has signed the Kyoto protocol committing us to serious reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change," said Mr. Milliken. "People like the Johnsons are leading the way by showing the rest of us what can be done." 

The One-Tonne challenge was initiated in order to reduce individuals’ annual greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by one tonne.  The average Canadian produces five tonnes of GHGs each year, so one tonne is a reduction of about 20 per cent.  By using energy more efficiently in our daily activities, individuals will not only reduce GHG emissions, but also other emissions that contribute to air pollution and smog. We know that smog-causing pollutants are increasing health care costs, affecting productivity, and contributing to crop damage.  Individual efforts to reduce GHGs will give us cleaner air and healthier communities.

Kingston’s own Johnson family is an excellent example.  After having their home inspected by an EnerGuide technician they found that their home had many drafts and little insulation.  By renovating their home with more insulation and sealing cracks they continue to save money on heating  and energy costs.  Upon the second inspection of the home it was shown that the minor renovations helped reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 5.7 tonnes per year.  In addition, they also received a $1700 retrofit incentive from EnerGuide for making their home more energy efficient.   

Every Canadian can make a difference in climate change by reducing their greenhouse gas consumption. 

To learn more about the One-Tonne Challenge visit: http://www.climatechange.gc.ca/