Gases in the atmosphere help to regulate the Earth's temperature. Like the glass of a greenhouse, they let sunlight in and keep heat from escaping. A certain amount of these gases is necessary to maintain the conditions for life as we know it. But, as the world has industrialized, human activities (especially the burning of fossil fuels for heat and electricity) have been releasing more greenhouse gases than ever before, warming the earth at an alarming rate.
Due to our reliance on coal and natural gas, and our energy (oil and gas) production intense economy, Saskatchewan has the highest per capita emissions rate of greenhouse gases of any province in Canada. Recently however SaskPower announced their new Boundary Dam Integrated Carbon Capture and Storage Demonstration Project expected to capturing one million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.
What does climate change mean for Saskatchewan?
The threats to our economy, environment and our overall quality of life are profound:
More frequent droughts, tornadoes, hailstorms, duststorms, insect infestations, forest fires and much slower forest regeneration
Lower water levels in our rivers and lakes, with more dangerous flooding in other areas
Rapidly changing ecosystems, with the loss of many plant and animal species
What can you do?
Lots! Government and industry are taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but, if we all do our part, as citizens we can make a meaningful difference:
Install an energy-efficient furnace, A/C, water heater and appliances and improve doors, windows, seals and insulation - you'll slash your greenhouse gas emissions and your monthly bills. And be sure to take advantage of the Saskatchewan Energuide for Housesprogram. You can get up to $5,000 back for improvements you make!
Use a programmable thermostat; lower the temperature at night or when you are away. And lower the temperature on your hot water heater.
You can recycle much more than paper, glass, tin and plastic. Paint, tires, oil, electronics, fluorescent bulbs, chemicals - Learn more here.
Did you know 40% of all electricity used to power electronics is consumed when the products are turned off? Unplug your cell and laptop chargers when you're not using them. Plug your computer, TV and home entertainment centre into a power bar you can time or switch off so they won't use power when you're sleeping or at work. (Find more ways to reduce "phantom power" at saskpower.com/eneraction).
Install dimmers (it's smart AND romantic) and remember to switch lights off when you're not in the room.
Don't idle your car while you're waiting to pick someone up or when you park to run an errand - or for more than a few minutes before you drive in the winter. A vehicle idling for 10 minutes a day uses more than 100 litres of fuel in a year. (Read about the province's Anti-idling Program here.)
Invest in a fuel-efficient car, keep your tire pressure up - better yet, drive less! Carpool, hop the bus, walk and bike more. - Learn more here.
Invite your family and friends to make these changes with you. It all adds up!
