XXXXXXXXXXX 1 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local

N TIO TO

VISION

FROM AC If this information is required in an accessible format, please contact 1-800-372-1102 ext. 2600. If this information is required in an accessible Region of Durham Region of Durham Change Community Climate Action Plan 2012 Local What is this document?

This document represents the results of a three-year process The Region of Durham developed this plan in two phases. to develop a Community Climate Change Local Action Plan This document combines Phase 1 and Phase 2 into a (LAP) for Durham. The Regional Municipality of Durham Community LAP that was approved and recommended by has led this process on behalf of the Durham community, the DRRCC and subsequently received by Regional Council under the direction of the Durham Region Roundtable on October 10, 2012. on Climate Change (DRRCC). The Region of Durham is That was the easy part. We must now move forward to a member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ further develop, approve and fully implement potential (FCM) Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program, programs identified in this plan. Only then will the Region and with this report has completed milestone three of the of Durham be achieving its vision of being a “carbon- five milestone PCP program—the production of a LAP on neutral, sustainable, prosperous and resilient community climate change. with a high quality of life.” Terms and acronyms Adaptation...... the ability of a system to adjust to GHG...... greenhouse gas climate change to moderate GJ ...... gigajoules potential damage IPCC...... Intergovernmental Panel on

CO2 ...... carbon dioxide Climate Change DPPG...... Durham Partners in Project Green ICI ...... industrial, commercial and DRRCC...... Durham Region Roundtable on institutional (sectors of the economy) Climate Change LAP...... Local Action Plan DSA...... Durham Sustain Ability MW ...... megawatt Durham Region/Region. . The Regional Municipality of Durham Mitigation...... actions to decrease the emissions Durham region/Durham . .the geographic area that cause climate change

eCO2 ...... equivalent carbon dioxide OPA...... Ontario Power Authority FCM...... Federation of Canadian ppm...... parts per million Municipalities PCP ...... Partners for Climate Protection FIT ...... Ontario Power Authority’s UOIT ...... University of Ontario Institute Feed-in-Tariff program of Technology

2 Table of contents

Table of contents

Forewords by the Regional Chair and Chief Executive Appendices Officer, and the Chair of the Durham Region Roundtable A. Membership of the Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change. on Climate Change...... 51 1. The need for community action on climate change . . 6 B. List of contributors to the LAP ...... 52 2. Context and background ...... 10 C. Climate change science and the IPCC . . . . . 55

3. Potential programs by theme/sector ...... 16

a. Built environment...... 18 b. Energy...... 21 c. Food system...... 23 d. Natural systems and resources...... 25 e. Transportation...... 26 f. Waste ...... 27 g. General...... 28 4. Impacts and co-benefits ...... 30

a. Environmental impacts...... 32 b. Economic impacts ...... 34 c. Social impacts ...... 35 5. LAP implementation strategies ...... 36

6. Adaptation to climate change ...... 42

7. Next steps ...... 46

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 3 Message from the Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

with direction “to position the Region The best way to tackle climate change of Durham as a leader in addressing is together. This plan recognizes that climate change issues by preparing local residents, businesses, institutions and recommending a comprehensive and municipalities all have a role to strategy with detailed actions that can play as we “think globally and act be undertaken across the region to locally” to protect our environment address climate change.” The roles and quality of life. of DRRCC include education about Yours truly, climate change, input to policy development, setting goals, overseeing Municipalities around the world are a corporate response, undertaking being affected by extreme weather outreach and advocacy, creating Roger Anderson and other challenges resulting from a community plan and working Regional Chair and climate change. As providers of collaboratively with area municipalities. Chief Executive Officer infrastructure, drinking water, emergency Over the past three years, the DRRCC services, snow ploughing and other has co-ordinated a process and community services, our facilities, consulted widely to create a practical, operations and budgets are directly community-supported, citizen-driven affected by these shifting patterns. action plan that is presented in this Durham recognized that it needed document. The DRRCC worked hard a plan to mitigate and adapt to the to advance a plan that is community- effects of climate change and extreme focused, and builds on activities and weather on our region. To this end, in efforts being undertaken by area 2009 The Regional Council of Durham municipalities and other community established the Durham Region partners. Roundtable on Climate Change (DRRCC)

4 Foreword 5 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local Don Mitchell Regional Councillor Chair of the Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change

Regional Council subsequently Regional Council targets the deep adopted as our gas emissions cuts in greenhouse community tells that the scientific to avoid runaway us are necessary climate change. that intellectual Acting locally means not awareness and agreement are must act and lead. all enough. We While local governments can influence we greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, need the commitment and contribution to of all residents and businesses achieve our DRRCC vision. Our children will thank us.

Scientific evidence overwhelmingly Scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the conclusion that human activities are fundamentally altering the conditions for life on earth. globalClimate change and associated as a severe is recognized warming threat to global systems with the potential for catastrophic outcomes.” 2009-J-37[Joint Committee Report ] “ Thinking globally means that we Thinking globally of the worldwide must be aware that are underway, changes in climate and indirect impacts and their direct 2009, Regional on Durham. In adopted the Council unanimously position that:

Message from the Chair of Chair from the Message the Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change on Climate Roundtable Region the Durham The need for community action on climate change

6 The need for community action on climate change

The climate is changing What is causing climate change? Weather records confirm that temperatures around the world, and here in Durham, are getting warmer. Scientific The greatest contributor to human-caused climate change sources state that the average global temperature has risen is carbon dioxide created by the burning of fossil fuels: almost 1°C over the last 50 years, and in Canada it has coal, oil and natural gas (source: Intergovernmental Panel risen 1.5°C over the last 64 years, with 2010 being 3°C on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report). Currently above normal (source: Environment Canada). fossil fuels constitute about 85% of energy supply worldwide While that may not seem like a big change given the daily (source: United States Energy Information Administration). and seasonal variations in weather, it is quite a significant Other gases, such as methane, water vapour, ozone, nitrous change in average temperature. Along with the increase oxide and chlorofluorocarbons, and other sources such in temperatures, we have seen changes in precipitation, as forest fires, deforestation, agricultural and industrial extreme weather, and more frequent and severe storms. practices also contribute to the increase of GHGs in the According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate atmosphere. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere Change (IPCC), climate change is predicted to accelerate through the Greenhouse Effect. due to the increasing concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Many scientists predict an average global temperature increase of 5 to 6°C in this century, which could cause significant damage to our environment, economy and society. The scientific community has established a goal of limiting global average CO2 and other gases in temperature rise to no more than 2°C, in order to prevent the atmosphere trap heat, the worst effects of climate change. Appendix C contains a keeping the earth warm. summary of climate science and the recommendations of Some sunlight that hits the IPCC that was endorsed by Durham Region Council on the earth is reflected. Sept. 23, 2009. Some becomes heat.

The Greenhouse Effect 7 What are the implications? What is the municipal role?

Most among us have enjoyed the recent mild winters in Cities, towns and regions in Canada have the jurisdiction Durham. Unfortunately, we don’t get to choose among to directly or indirectly influence activities accounting for the implications of climate change. It’s a package deal. 44% of GHG emissions in Canada, according to a study Together with the mild winters, we will have hotter, drier by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). This summers, droughts, extreme storms, more smog days, includes management of their own activities that produce health impacts, and all manner of economic, environmental GHGs (energy consumption, waste management, etc.) and social threats caused directly or indirectly by the global plus policy direction; influence and funding over issues like changes triggered by a warming climate. Many experts public transit, roads, urban design, economic development consider climate change the greatest threat to human and building design; and other factors that determine energy society in the 21st century—and solving it the greatest consumption and GHG emissions in the community. Cities economic opportunity of the century (The Stern Report). around the world, such as London, Chicago, Boston and Portland have been among the leaders in climate protection What can be done? and Vancouver and Toronto here in Canada have also been very dedicated. Departments in The Regional Municipality Federally, provincially and locally, we have to reduce of Durham have embedded climate considerations in their our GHG emissions by improving energy efficiency and business planning cycle. conservation measures, and investing in alternative forms of energy. Other measures such as reforming agricultural and land-use practices, increasing forestation to capture carbon and reinventing industrial processes are also important. There are economic instruments, such as carbon charges and cap-and-trade programs that could be implemented to promote the decisions and behaviours necessary. In order to limit global average temperature increases to less than 2°C, global GHG emissions must be reduced by about 80% by 2050 (source: IPCC). This is the long-term target adopted by the Region of Durham.

8 The need for community action on climate change

What is the Why should community role? the Durham community act? Of all the GHG emissions from Durham region, only four per cent By positioning Durham as a leader come directly from The Regional in tackling climate change, we have Municipality of Durham (Regional the opportunity to influence other facilities, bus and vehicle fleets, municipalities to do the same. The water and sewage treatment, traffic implementation of the potential signals and landfill emissions). As programs in this report would also shown in Figure 1, the other 96% of increase economic activity, create new emissions result from the community businesses and enhance our quality (transportation, homes, industries, of life in the region. It is important to businesses and institutional buildings). have collaboration with, and collective In addition to managing its own GHG and co-ordinated effort by the emissions, The Regional Municipality community and government. of Durham, through Council direction, is taking a leadership role in community Durham aims to be a contributor action for climate protection. to reducing global climate change. We urge our federal, provincial and Community 96% municipal partners, who also have key roles to play, to follow our example.

Corporate 4% Figure 1: GHG Emissions Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 9 Context and background

10 Context and background

What are Durham’s Where do the emissions GHG emissions? come from?

In 2009, the Region of Durham commissioned an inventory Most of the GHG emissions in Durham result directly of community GHG emissions, which estimated emissions for from energy consumption (e.g. natural gas, gasoline and four years (2005 to 2008) and projected emissions to 2020, diesel) or indirectly through the generation of electricity. A based on a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario (refer to small portion of local GHG emissions come from methane Figure 2). The year 2007 was selected as the base year for released by landfill sites and from sewage treatment. Other setting targets and measuring progress because it was minor sources of GHGs in Durham come from agricultural relatively representative in terms of economic activity. The and industrial sources. The sources of energy consumption energy costs for this period are on average $1.3 billion per are shown in Figure 3. The sources of GHG emissions by year, and could be as high as $1.8 billion in a BAU scenario. sector are shown in Figure 4, and by source in Figure 5.

90,000 6,000 Industrial, Commercial

) and Institutional 46.0%

80,000 e s

BASE YEAR 5,000 n 70,000 t o

60,000 4,000 n d

us a

50,000 h o 3,000

40,000 ns ( T i o

30,000 2,000 is s Transportation

e m 18.5% 2

Energy use (Thousand GJ) 20,000

1,000 O

10,000 e C Residential

0 0 35.4% 2005 2006 2007 2008 2020 (Business As Usual)

Figure 2: Summary of energy consumption and eCO2 emissions Figure 3: 2007 Energy consumption by source

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 11 Industrial, Commercial and Institutional 42.1% How can emissions be reduced?

Residential We can reduce emissions by: 32.0% Transportation 22.4% • Substituting non-carbon forms of energy (renewable energy and nuclear) for fossil fuels. • Reducing energy consumption through energy conservation and efficiency. Community Possible energy strategies include: Waste 3.5% • Stimulating the retrofit of buildings and processes to conserve energy. Figure 4: 2007 eCO2 emissions by sector • Promoting energy-efficient, new construction of buildings. • Promoting energy-efficient modes of transportation together with energy-efficient and alternative Natural Gas 42% fuel vehicles. • Promoting and installing renewable forms of energy generation. Electricity • Designing our communities to reduce energy 23% consumption and increasingly using community energy systems. Gasoline 16% Community Possible non-energy strategies include: Waste 4% Diesel Fuel Oil • Reducing emissions from solid waste through further 10% Propane 3% 2% diversion and alternative treatment of residual waste (including energy from waste).

Figure 4: 2007 eCO2 emissions by source • Planting trees and reforming agricultural practices to sequester carbon. • Increasing local food production and use.

12 Context and background 13

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local Durham Region is a carbon-neutral, sustainable, sustainable, is a carbon-neutral, Region Durham with a community and resilient prosperous life” high quality of “ Vision as establishes carbon neutrality This vision statement goal (meaning that all GHG long-term an aggressive, less directly or indirectly by Durham emissions generated in other ways in forests, stored or offset those sequestered goal is balanced by the simultaneous sum to zero). This Durham region sustainable objectives of making economically and socially), prosperous (environmentally, economy), (implying a diversified and high-performance shocks (both climate-relatedresilient to future pressures and a high quality of life and otherwise) while maintaining for its residents.

To position the Region of Durham as a leader in of Durham as a leader the Region position To change issues by preparing addressing climate with a comprehensive strategy and recommending across detailed actions that can be undertaken change.” the region to address climate “ on the establishment of a vision, mission and targets. on the establishment of a vision, The DRRCC began work in 2009, and its early efforts focusedThe DRRCC began work in 2009, The DRRCC is composed of the Regional Chair and The DRRCC is composed of the the Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Executive Officer, a number of community four Regional Councillors and A). representatives (refer to Appendix The DRRCC was established in 2008 as a committee of established in 2008 as a committee The DRRCC was Council with the goal: Durham Region The Durham Region Roundtable on Roundtable Region The Durham (DRRCC) Climate Change produce a LAP? produce What to the process has been Mission Targets “To work with our community to develop and advocate (Adopted by Regional Council on June 2, 2010) innovative policies, strategies and actions that address • 5% reduction by 2015 the threat of climate change.” • 20% reduction by 2020 The implication in this mission is that the Durham community • 80% reduction by 2050 (not just Regional government) should develop, promote These are absolute targets (not intensity-based targets) and and deliver, through partnerships, a set of strategic and are measured against 2007 baseline emissions. These high-leverage interventions and programs that will have targets are consistent with the levels of GHG emission significant impact on both mitigation (reducing our GHG reduction that the international scientific community emissions) and adaptation to the effects of climate change. (through the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) maintains are necessary to limit global warming to 2°C and prevent catastrophic climate change. For Durham, they are milestones on the path to carbon neutrality. Figure 5: Current projections and future targets

BASE YEAR 2007 2015 2020 2050 3,880 3,686 3,104 776 4,000 BASE LINE 5% 2 20% 3,000 80% 2,000

1,000 Thousand tonnes eCO 0 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050

14 Context and background 15 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local

climate_change/reports/DurhamLAP2.pdf Phase 1The Draft LAP was reviewed by and 2 stakeholders during summer completeness 2012 for accuracy, and community appeal. Relevant comments received were incorporated into this version of the LAP. 2 The timeline for Phase 1, Phase is and future program approvals 6: Process represented in Figure diagram for Region of Durham Community Climate Change Local Action Plan. Local Action Plan - Phase 2 Plan - Action Local summer in Phase 2 during The focus programs for on potential 2011 was to achieve the vision implementation to Phase 2 and targets. Contributors B. are listed in Appendix 2 Report on Phase The Progress is available on (as of July 29, 2011) website at: the Region of Durham http://www.durham.ca/community/ http://www.durham.ca/community/ climate_change/reports/DurhamLAP.pdf The Climate Change Local Action Local The Climate Change was adopted by Plan – Phase 1 2011, Regional Council on March 9, and is available at: During summer 2010, community summer 2010, During in a were engaged stakeholders which endorsed consultation process, and identified the vision, targets goals and objectives. themes, sectors, Phase 1 are listed in Contributors to Appendix B. Local Action Plan - Phase 1 Plan - Action Local Potential programs

16 Potential programs

Introduction

This set of potential programs represents initiatives It is important to recognize that each program within the identified and endorsed by stakeholders and community plan will require subsequent development and individual representatives across the region. Together, these approval by Regional Council before being implemented 18 potential programs constitute a Climate Change in the years ahead. Not all of these potential programs Local Action Plan (LAP) that can be characterized as: will necessarily be approved and launched.

• Ambitious The 18 programs presented here are organized by the six • Strategic themes identified in Phase 1 of the LAP, with the addition of a seventh general theme. • High-leverage • Effective in reducing GHG emissions • Attractive to the Durham community by producing environmental, economic and social co-benefits

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 17 Built environment Potential programs: theme BE1: Durham Partners in Project Green (DPPG) Goal: Support a sustainable built environment in ways that reduce GHG emissions through design, technology, education Develop a Durham version of Partners and stewardship. in Project Green (PPG) for the industrial Objectives: and commercial business community in Durham. This program will initially offer: transportation (goods and employees), • Facilitate implementation of solid waste reduction, by-product compact urban form and, • Referral services to utility energy synergies, renewable energy production, by extension, sustainable efficiency assessments and green procurement, green parking lots transportation through methods financial incentives. and district energy facilities. The and approaches such as policy • Procurement assistance (e.g. the program will be supported by local development, increased density, Green Purchasing Alliance). electrical and gas utilities, municipal infill development, brownfield governments and business associations, development and urban design. • Training courses. and will be managed and delivered • Networking opportunities. • Encourage sustainable building by a local community organization, technologies in new projects • Access to PPG database and Durham Sustain Ability (DSA). and retrofits. case studies. This program was launched in • Engage and educate the The emphasis with local companies April 2012. community on the benefits of will begin on energy efficiency, sustainable built environment. and DPPG will make a significant contribution to lower GHG emissions Current building programs: and increase business profitability. • Regional Revitalization Program Over time, the menu of available services may expand to cover other PPG services such as water efficiency,

18 Potential programs

BE2: Comprehensive Residential • Assistance with contractor Retrofit selection criteria and project management (thus reducing the Develop a comprehensive residential complexity factor). energy retrofit program for Durham involving four key elements of: • A home energy label to identify residences that have been • Energy audit and investment plan significantly retrofitted and their covering a wide range of building new utility costs (to assist in the envelope, heating, ventilation eventual resale of the home). and air conditioning, appliance, Such a comprehensive program lighting, water heating and would overcome most of the barriers renewable energy retrofits. inhibiting extensive energy retrofitting • Financing plan combining any of residential buildings in Durham, remaining federal/provincial and result in major energy and GHG grant programs together with savings. For this voluntary program to long-term, low-interest loans be successful, extensive homeowner designed to produce positive education and engagement must take cash flow from the outset place. Homeowners who are informed (thus eliminating the barrier about the measurable benefits of the of a payback period). program will be much more likely to participate.

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 19 BE4: Durham Green and significantly reduce carbon Building Guideline emissions and other impacts on the environment. It has been Develop and adopt a Durham demonstrated that the incremental Green Building Guideline for all new construction in Durham (both residential and ICI), which promotes BE3: Green Affordable Housing a higher level of energy efficiency for new buildings than the current In partnership with the Region of Ontario Building Code and increases Durham Social Services Department’s that standard over time. Housing Services Division and other stakeholders, develop a customized Municipalities have no authority to set and targeted program for the retrofit and enforce building codes, therefore of the Region’s approximately this program will be voluntary for 6,300 social housing units. While developers and builders. It will rely on this program may be similar to, marketing mechanisms to promote costs of such upgrades have proven to or a subset of, the Comprehensive energy efficient, new buildings in be modest and to pay for themselves Residential Retrofit program, the Durham. An example of such a in a few years, given current and ownership, financing, rental and program is the City of Toronto’s projected energy costs. The marketing utility bill arrangements for these “Green Standard.” mechanisms for the residential sector social housing units are complex and might include “Durham Eco-Home” highly varied, and will likely require This program could encourage a designation and label, which is special approaches to address the significant portion of new building promoted to new home buyers and energy conservation potential that stock in Durham to move towards applied to all qualifying new homes. they represent. Once retrofitted, these the goal of energy neutrality, The program should be created buildings will have lower operating in collaboration with progressive and maintenance costs, more stable developers and builders because utility costs and higher levels of indoor those who have had the opportunity environmental quality than previously. to shape the program will be much more willing to support it and actively participate.

20 Potential programs

Energy theme Potential programs:

E1: Smart Grid Initiative Goal: Create a Durham Smart Grid Initiative Reduce GHG emissions to sustainable to develop and demonstrate the levels through judicious production, key components of smart grid generation, transmission, delivery and technology, namely: use of energy. • Integration of dispersed local

Objectives: sources of renewable and

low-GHG generation. • Replace the need for energy funded through private partnerships. consumption through smart • Improved end-use management This action has the potential to be design and planning. of electrical loads through supported by the Ontario Power • Encourage, support and promote information technology. Authority’s (OPA) Feed-in Tariff (FIT) energy conservation in a • Optimized scheduling of sources, program, and to position Durham as sustainable manner. end-uses and storage. the staging area (harbour) for a future offshore wind industry. This initial • Maximize local, renewable • Integration of electric vehicles wind farm would be located at least and low GHG emission (EV) and charging systems. five kilometres offshore of Durham. energy generation sources Durham has the potential to become to promote resiliency, security the smart grid and EV leader While this concept was created in the and self sufficiency. in Ontario, thus reducing GHG context of wind energy, the strategy emissions and stimulating economic could be expanded to consider other development in the community. forms of renewable energy, such as solar, and could be adapted to E2: Offshore Wind Power include on-shore energy projects Generation (where appropriate). Create an offshore wind farm in Lake Ontario with the capacity to generate 100 megawatt (MW) of electricity (50 x 2 MW wind turbines),

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 21 Pond biofuels project, St Marys Cement

E3: Durham Mini-Deep Lake lake water and the Enwave closed Water Cooling chilled water supply loop. The water that is drawn from the lake is used for the GHG emissions could be reduced regular water supply. The cool aspect through creative use of local resources of the lake water, not the actual water, such as cold water from Lake Ontario. provides the alternative to conventional Deep lake water cooling is a system air conditioning (source: City of Toronto, that uses cold lake water to air 2011). Smaller-scale versions of this condition commercial or industrial initiative could reduce the electricity use buildings. In Toronto, the Enwave (and GHG emissions) by the commercial E4: Durham Biofuels Program system works by drawing cold water and industrial sectors within the (4°C) from five kilometres off the Create a program to encourage Durham community, in locations where shore of Lake Ontario and from a businesses to develop industry clusters there is, or will be, sufficient building depth of 83 metres. This cold water for the refining of second-generation density and cooling load.Feasibility is transferred to the City’s pumping ethanol and bio-diesel fuels (and studies would be needed to establish station; there, heat exchangers facilitate biochemical feedstocks and byproducts). potential sites for further investigation. the energy transfer between the cold The bio-fuels would be fed into the gasoline and diesel fuel supply systems in Durham and Ontario to displace gasoline and diesel fuel, and thereby Water is drawn from deep reduce net GHG emissions. in the lake, run through a heat exchanger The program might also encompass and the coldness of the water provides an the possibility of algae-based bio-fuel alternative to conventional air-conditioning. production on farms or in industrial and aquatic environments.

A life cycle analysis would be completed to ensure sustainability and avoid impact on the food supply.

22 Potential programs

E5: Bio-methane Production Gas Grid Fuel and Use Direct injection into High in octane, biomethane Bio-methane can be generated from natural gas grids. is used as a substitute fuel and a variety of sources which are plentiful may be used to power vehicles. in Durham: landfill gas, green bin waste, sewage and agricultural waste. Methane gas can be generated from these sources using anaerobic digesters and then used for co-generation of Heat electricity and heat, burned directly for Upgrading Co-generation heat, or upgraded for use as a fuel for of Electricity heavy vehicles and injected into the natural gas distribution system for use as “green gas” (by displacement) at various end-use sites. Simply burning methane which would otherwise escape to the atmosphere, is a Controlled methanization Biogas major contribution to GHG reduction, Compost/ allows for digestion-based Fertilizer Energy but converting organic waste into gas to be used as an energy base for the production of bio-methane can also deal with a The process generates added value products, heat, electricity and fuel. waste-disposal problem and produce for example, compost a useful carbon-neutral fuel. and fertilizer.

Principal Sources of Biogas

Household Waste Landfill Agricultural Waste

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 23 Current local food programs: • A processing facility with public- health inspected kitchens for Currently the Region of Durham or canning and other value-added its partners co-ordinate the following food preparation. programs to support the food sector: • Services such as education, • Durham Farm Fresh - A program community outreach to promote local purchase of and marketing. Durham farm produce. Food system theme The Local Food Hub would give • Savour the Season - A promotional small farmers a chance to channel Goal: program supporting restaurants their produce and meats into new featuring local produce. To support a sustainable food system markets by combining their crops in ways that reduce GHG emissions • Durham Farm Connections - An and connecting them with larger and increase food supply. educational program focused on purchasers. Thus, it will save farmers school curriculum. time and money by allowing them to Objectives: • Weekly outdoor farmers’ markets move beyond direct sales. This is also • Prioritize and support food in various locations. an opportunity to use and implement the Durham Food Charter. system practices that improve • Durham Food Charter - A water consumption, delivery community strategic plan for The Local Food Hub should also and recapture, reduce GHG food security in Durham. be used as the co-ordination and emissions, improve energy administrative centre for other efficiencies and increase Potential programs: local food initiatives including, but carbon sequestration. FS1: Local Food Hub not limited to: Urban Agriculture • Provide education about the Programs, backyard composting and Develop a Local Food Hub that will relationship between GHG education on local food initiatives. serve local farmers, restaurants and emissions, and food choice consumers in Durham and Toronto. and consumption. The local food hub would initially offer: • Implement key objectives of the food charter by increasing • A permanent, year-round, indoor community access to local food, market space where farmers and facilitating the participation can store/sell their produce and of distributors and retailers. meats (wholesale or retail). 24 Potential programs

The Urban Agriculture Program would Natural systems and also increase the carbon sequestration capacity of Durham’s built environment, resources theme reduce food miles and implement key provisions of the Food Charter. Goal:

FS3: Farm Friendly Regulations Protect, enhance, conserve and/or manage natural resources in ways FS2: Urban Agriculture Program Develop a clear, concise, one-window that reduce GHG emissions and Develop a thriving urban agriculture document containing a set of guidelines promote wise use of resources. community within Durham with an that bring together existing pieces emphasis on garden plots, community of legislation, regulation and policy Objectives: gardens, backyard gardening, that affect farmers. The initiative • Increase local net carbon sustainable agriculture, education and could also propose new measures sequestration capacity in community engagement. The Urban to streamline the process for farmers natural and built environment Agriculture Program would initially offer: to continue their current practices by creating, restoring and and expand their business by staying remediating degraded natural • Educational farming fields on the land and passing family and built environments. located onsite at partner farms onto the next generation. • Promote local and sustainable elementary schools, secondary Such an initiative could strengthen use and reuse of indigenous schools, community centres, the agricultural sector in Durham natural resources. other community institutions and and contribute to increased crop • Promote source water protection, interested residents’ backyards. production, with resulting climate and conservation and reuse. • Urban farming internships, financial benefits. This program would workshops and volunteer work in co-operation with the Golden Current initiatives: opportunities. Horseshoe Agriculture and Agri-Food • Region of Durham staff actively Strategy Action Plan and the Region • A local compost program. participate on several source of Durham’s Planning and Economic • The opportunity to buy shares in water protection committees. Development Department in facilitating the harvest. growth in the agricultural sector. • Harvest Festivals, Open Farm Days and other opportunities for broad community engagement. Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 25 and streetscapes, which can sequester Transportation CO2 and contribute to the greenhouse gas emissions target of 80% reduction theme by 2050. Tree planting will also assist Goal: in adaptation efforts by providing a cooling effect. Reduce GHG emissions from transportation in Durham region. Currently, Trees Ontario is committed to planting 50 million trees in Ontario Objectives: by 2020, a program which itself will • Promote low-GHG emission result in planting an estimated 1.75 transportation options that are million trees in Durham. Therefore, appealing to the public. the target for Durham has been • Improve/increase the frequency and increased to plant and maintain an integration of public transit services. additional five million trees in Durham • Promote the adoption of innovative over a 10-year period from 2013 to and intermodal transportation 2022 (as a possible timeline) or, 0.5 technologies, best practices million trees per year on average. and policies. Potential program: Many of these trees will be planted NS1: Durham Five Million Trees and maintained through partnerships with provincial agencies, local Create a made-in-Durham version of conservation authorities, municipal Million Trees New York City through a governments, local volunteer variety of public-private partnerships organizations and service clubs. Care throughout the community. The goal will need to be taken to select species of the program is to plant five million that are hardy and adapted to our trees (increased from the original changing climate. one million) throughout the Durham community over a period of 10 years, in an effort to reforest parkland as well as residential and commercial areas, open spaces, marginal land

26 Potential programs 27 support of extended producer responsibility. and recovery opportunities. through programs and partnerships. management systems. Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local • Encourage prevention through • Encourage prevention • Expand and improve recycling the reuse of materials • Promote • Improve and enhance waste- waste-management system that reduces through prevention, GHG emissions recovering recycling, reduction, reuse, and disposal. Objectives: Waste theme Waste Goal: integrated Support a sustainable

lessening of traffic congestion. for residents and an increase in active transportation. easier to walk, bike or take transit. guidelines that promote transit that promote guidelines and walking. use, cycling stakeholders. to encourage provincial level between Regionaladditional links GO bus/train transit system, and and VIA Rail systems. vehicle trips. including accessible transit systems, walking and cycling, especially for those that cannot, or choose not, to drive (such as youth and seniors). • Increased transit ridership. • Improved air quality due to • Alternative transportation options • Community planning and design planning • Community and other • Outreach to residents and • Advocacy at inter-municipal • Reduced single-occupancy • Increased mobility choices, it • Healthier lifestyle by making Benefits from the program Benefits from the would include: through to Bowmanville. corridor/ possible transit transitway stations Active Transportation Active Transportation and Transit • Smart Commute Durham • Smart Commute Oshawa from extension Train GO • extension and • Highway 407 • Durham Rapid Transit • Regional Cycling Plan Plan Master • Transportation The program could consist of the following elements: T1:  Build upon various existing initiatives aimed at developing a connected for all and balanced mobility system modes of transportation – walking, transit and commercial/ cycling, private automobiles, with a priority on active transportation. Potential program: Potential Currently the following programs, the following Currently are underway plans and proposals provincial agencies: by Regional and Current transportation transportation Current initiatives: Current waste management s The Regional Municipality of something you were going to program: Durham could engage more throw out. businesses to be drop-off Durham Region is currently achieving s This would be similar to online locations, and advertise the a high rate of diversion from landfill trading sites, only with an programs more thoroughly. (53% in 2011) due to the following educational component and programs: • Freecycle days and freecycle is Durham-centric. centres: • Blue Box recycling The climate rationale for such a • Green Bin composting program s Residents could leave their program rests on the objectives unwanted items on the curb on • Waste-management education of keeping materials (especially freecycle days, which could be materials that can decompose) out Plans have now been approved for an the first Saturday of every month of landfill and on reducing energy Energy from Waste facility in Clarington (or alternate timing). consumption of manufacturing new that would burn much of our residual products (mostly outside of Durham) waste to produce electricity and s If nobody takes their items by replacing their purchase with heat, and thereby divert this waste from the curb, the residents reused products. from landfill. must drop their items off at conveniently located freecycle Potential program: centres (could be located in W1: Durham Freecycle Program recycling centres, schools and community centres, Expand opportunities for reusing and for example). recycling products/materials through a three-pronged approach: • Freecycle online: s User-friendly website/database • Expand present programs: that co-ordinates those who wish s The Regional Municipality to dispose of items with those of Durham already has who wish to reuse, and connects programs to deal with everyone with repair services. electronic waste, household hazardous waste and tires. s Also gives do-it-yourself ideas for repairing or reusing

28 Potential programs

General theme and services but avoid any implication of preferred supplier lists. It could also leverage the DPPG program by This General theme was not identified increasing the local market for green in the Phase 1 process but is created products and services, and sharing here to cover three general programs. best practices for green purchasing. Potential programs: G2: Community Climate Fund

G1: Durham Green

Procurement Guide Create a community fund that disburses small amounts of funding for climate Representatives from the Region, area and environmental initiatives. For municipalities and the ICI sector could example, the fund could be valued at draft and adopt green procurement $100,000 annually and distributed in Durham College, University of Ontario criteria for the community that: sums ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 Institute of Technology (UOIT), municipal per project. Groups would apply governments, service clubs, energy • Eliminate excess packaging quarterly and be judged according to utilities and others could design • Specify materials that can be a set of criteria (including leverage and deliver a co-ordinated climate composted or reused/recycled on Regional contributions, creativity, education program to various target • Source food locally replicability, links to the LAP, etc.). groups in Durham. This program • Source other products locally, Successful projects would be publicized should initially deal with climate science, where possible and shared with the community climate impacts and mitigation actions through an appropriate website. but should, over time, also cover • Increase the amount of climate adaptation measures. It could, post-consumer material G3: Climate Education Program for example, include a web-based • Identify the most In order to improve the receptivity, self-assessment tool for residents to energy-efficient option market penetration and ultimate calculate their carbon footprint and • Consider product life cycle and success for the other proposed climate identify possible next steps in reducing promote the lowest GHG option programs, The Regional Municipality their personal GHG emissions. This initiative would promote the of Durham, together with community voluntary purchase of green products partners such as local school boards,

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 29 Impacts and co-benefits

30 Impacts and co-benefits 31

to GHG that four of the preliminary analysis results as Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local are developed for individual approval. • BE1: Durham Partners in Project Green in Project • BE1: Durham Partners Retrofit • BE2: Comprehensive Residential Guideline • BE4: Durham Green Building • E4: Durham Biofuels Program. programs Based on the analysis to date, it appears Based on the analysis to date, it potential programs offer the greatest contribution offer programs potential reductions and to economic and social co-benefits.reductions and to economic and These programs are: work will extend these Further Preliminary assessment of the impacts and co-benefits assessment of of thePreliminary potential programs has been undertaken and is presented has been undertaken and potential programs Impacts of the 1: Estimated in a qualitative manner in Table Plan. Action Community Climate Change Local

approved to date)

• A vision • A mission • A set of targets and a set of objectives • Six themes, each with a goal one has been • 18 potential programs (of which (in most cases over a 10-year time frame from 2013 to 2022).(in most cases over a 10-year time of program impacts, undertake quantitative analysis To detailed assumptions there has to be reasonable and rates, equipment concerning factors such as participation and material costs, labour costs, energy production and savings, energy rates, financing costs, etc.

The Durham Community Climate Change LAP at this time Climate Change LAP The Durham Community consists of: and implications of the LAP, assess the projected impacts To should be analyzed and each of the 18 potential programs are developed, approved the assumption made that they time periods and fully implemented over reasonable Analysis identifies impacts and co-benefits impacts and identifies Analysis Where possible, quantitative estimates • Increases in vegetation cover were made of the expected reductions resulting from tree planting and in GHG emissions resulting from agricultural programs, which in each program in the target year of turn improve biodiversity, aesthetics 2020. However, some programs are and reduce summer heating. very difficult to quantify and can best The value of these environmental be characterized qualitatively as a impacts has been assessed qualitatively positive contribution (or otherwise) to and is represented by a plus sign (+) GHG reduction. The relative magnitude in Table 1. of the GHG reductions is presented in Table 1 by down arrows (). Reducing GHG emissions in Durham can also result in improved local To date, the analysis indicates that air quality and a “greener”, cooler implementation of the potential local landscape. programs in the LAP can achieve the Types of impacts 2020 target of a 20% reduction in A. Environmental impacts GHG emissions from Durham region.

The set of 18 potential programs are Beyond GHG emission reductions, there designed variously to: are a number of other environmental co-benefits which result from various • Directly or indirectly reduce energy programs to address climate change. consumption and thus GHG These impacts are more local in emissions associated with the nature and include: production and use of that energy. • Reductions in local air pollutants • Produce renewable energy that like carbon monoxide, will displace fossil fuels from particulates, sulphur oxides, current uses. nitrogen oxides, methane, • Sequester carbon dioxide by mercury and other chemicals removing it from the atmosphere. that are produced when fossil fuels are burned.

32 Impacts and co-benefits TABLE 1 - ESTIMATED IMPACTS OF THE COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE LOCAL ACTION PLAN

Environmental Economic Social

Potential programs Household & Capital investment Value added to GHG emissions Local air quality Vegetation cover Employment business utility Health in Durham Durham economy savings

BE1 Durham Partners in Project Green

BE2 Comprehensive Residential Retrofit

BE3 Green Affordable Housing 1

BE4 Durham Green Building Guideline

E1 Smart Grid Initiative

E2 Offshore Wind Power Generation

E3 Durham Deep Lake Water Cooling

E4 Durham Biofuels Program

E5 Bio-methane Production and Use

FS1 Local Food Hub

FS2 Urban Agriculture Program

FS3 Farm-Friendly Regulations

NS1 Durham Five Million Trees

T1 Active Transportation and Transit

W1 Durham Freecycle Program

G1 Durham Green Procurement Guide

G2 Community Climate Fund

G3 Climate Education Program

KEY FOOTNOTES

= amount of GHG reduction 1 - A subset of Comprehensive Residential Retrofit = small GHG reduction 2 - Average annual energy savings of $10,800 per participating business = undetermined GHG impact 3 - Average annual energy savings of $865 per participating household 4 - Average annual energy and water savings of $760 per participating new houseshold = significant GHG reduction beyond 2020 + = positive environmental or social impact $ = amount of positive economic impact = amount of employment increase

= not analyzed or not applicable

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 33 B. Economic impacts

The set of 18 potential programs will stimulate capital investment in energy efficiency technologies and retrofits, renewable energy development, new agricultural production, tree planting and other forms of economic activity. Most of the labour for installation and operation and some of the equipment and materials for these activities, will be sourced in Durham region and will thus have economic and employment impacts on the region and also on the Ontario economy. Furthermore, the money saved by consumers and business through energy efficiency The relative value of the capital measures is spent mostly in the local investment associated with each economy and stimulates further program is indicated by dollar signs economic activity. ($) in Table 1. Similarly, the value added to the Durham economy that results from the initial capital investment, the operation of the facilities and the respending of energy savings is represented by dollar signs ($) in Table 1.

34 Impacts and co-benefits

C. Social impacts • Improving indoor air quality in homes and businesses through Social cohesion and the quality of life energy retrofits. in Durham can also be impacted by the programs proposed in the LAP in • Improving health through better the following ways: outdoor air quality and more a more physically active • Providing more employment population. in Durham. • Increasing local food production • Putting more disposable income and food security. in the pockets of residents through • More pleasant, people-oriented energy efficiency in their homes. communities. • Reducing business expenses Two major programs (DPPG and through energy savings, thus Comprehensive Residential Retrofit) increasing profits and At this point employment impacts of are designed to stimulate energy re-investment. the various programs are represented efficiency investments by home owners by person symbols ( ) in Table 1. and business managers through Impacts on utility bill savings and provision of information/audits, health are indicated where applicable access to grants/financing and by a plus sign (+). other support services. The financial magnitude of these savings will be In summary, financial and social estimated as these programs are resiliency and the quality of life in developed. Other social impacts, such Durham can be enhanced through as health impacts, are more difficult climate protection measures. to estimate and will be characterized qualitatively for decision-makers.

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 35 LAP implementation strategies

36 LAP implementation strategies

Introduction

As the Durham community moves forward to develop and • Relevant program experience (e.g. Partners in Project implement programs in this LAP, there are strategies which Green from the Pearson Eco-Business Zone operated can maximize the positive environmental, economic and by Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)). social impacts on Durham, while minimizing costs. These • Existing standards (e.g. the R2000 and EnergyStar implementation strategies are presented below with brief standards for new homes, the RenoMark program). examples of how they can apply to potential programs. • Existing information and databases (e.g. Regional Leverage housing databases, federal home retrofit databases, business directories). The idea of leverage is to achieve the maximum result with the minimum input of resources. If we can combine • Existing analysis tools (e.g. the EnerGuide rating Regional resources with resources from other public and program for the energy efficiency of housing). private partners, we can achieve large outcomes. Resources • Existing training programs and certifications (e.g. the should be viewed in several ways: Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation seminars and training programs, training programs for home energy auditors).

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 37 • Existing financial incentive programs (e.g. the As individual programs are developed for approval, a OPA saveONenergy grants, Enbridge’s energy thorough analysis will be undertaken of available program efficiency grants). experience and funding that can strengthen these programs • Pilot programs and demonstrations (e.g. the OPA’s and provide maximum leverage. Conservation Fund, Natural Resources Canada’s Facilitation ecoENERGY for Biofuels Program) Local and regional governments can facilitate activities • Existing operational funding (e.g. the FCM’s Green among their residents and businesses that contribute Municipal Fund, the Region of Durham’s solid substantially to climate protection. Local governments can waste management programs). provide a range of services including the following: DPPG demonstrates the strategy of leverage by: • Development standards and guidelines: Local • Drawing on the successful PPG program model that governments control land use and the design of has been developed over the last four years by TRCA our cities, neighbourhoods and buildings, which in the Pearson Airport Eco-Business Zone, including significantly impacts our energy use and GHG proven services, databases, case studies and the emissions. Official plans, strategic plans, development PPG website. controls, development charges, and local planning • Combining operational funding from all the criteria and guidelines have major impacts on the region’s electrical and gas utilities and several of liveability and viability of our community. They can the municipalities. facilitate sprawl or more compact and efficient • Providing streamlined access for business to financial community design. incentive programs from these utilities. • Information: Municipal governments can play key roles • Supporting DSA to grow its existing Eco-Business in providing locally relevant information to residents Program into the more comprehensive DPPG program. and business when they are making major purchase decisions that will affect future energy consumption • Utilizing business associations such as local chambers and GHG emissions. For example, a home energy of commerce and boards of trade in Durham to efficiency standard, information on affordability and support and market DPPG to their members. a list of home builders offering high-efficiency homes would be highly effective at the point of new home

38 LAP implementation strategies 39 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local

grow the energy companies of energy companies grow the Climate protection the future. an engine of economic can be Durham. development for barriers, exploit market mechanisms andbarriers, exploit benefits for the region.achieve multiple investment Private sector in Many of the initiatives proposed the LAP will require private sector and investments in energy efficiency renewable energy opportunities bio-fuel in Durham. Wind energy, production, solar energy projects, vehicles of the future, business energy efficiency and residential by energy retrofits will be funded private investment, not tax dollars. If local governments offer attractive, opportunities stable and long-term will for private capital, investment of flow into Durham. The creation business clusters is facilitated by local governments fostering the right environment for investment. Water, As LAP programs are further As LAP programs should be seeking developed, we those low-cost facilitation opportunities can reduce where local governments purchase. Key information at the at the information Key purchase. informed can facilitate right time optimum and make investments use of market mechanisms. services can convenient bus and reduce car dependence support active transportation of GO Transit (cycling) and use Transit. and Durham Region into Integration of transit community design is key to facilitating increased transit use by residents and commuters. protection in Durham also offers opportunities to strengthen our local jobs provide economy, By and build future prosperity. investing in our own energy will reduce our we efficiency, future energy costs for residents and businesses, produce and protect local jobs, and make Durham more attractive as a By place to live, work and invest. focusing on renewable energy development in Durham, we can attract corporate investment and • Public transit: Efficient and • Public transit: • Economic development: Climate wind, sun, development land, agricultural production, Community delivery agents research and education institutions, technology, a One of the key implementation strategies for the LAP is skilled workforce, a high quality of life and a regional to deliver climate change programs wherever possible sustainability vision are the key ingredients to attracting through community delivery agents and partnerships rather the sort of private investment that will lead to a diversified than just through local government. The LAP does not aim economy and local prosperity. to create “big government.” Rather it aims to mobilize Sequencing of programs the Durham community and to benefit from the efficiency, cost-effectiveness and credibility of existing community Of the 18 potential programs in the LAP, it will be important organizations to shape and deliver programs that are to establish an optimum sequence for development, approval beneficial to Durham. and implementation of the programs. The initial program to be approved, BE1: DPPG, is already in the implementation The ongoing roles of the DRRCC will be to: phase. Other programs, especially the infrastructure-type • Advocate and educate on behalf of the LAP. programs, will require long lead times to address regulatory issues, land-use approvals and private sector investment • Promote and coordinate the implementation efforts. before implementation can begin. Still other programs, • Empower and support community agents. such as DPPG and Comprehensive Residential Retrofits, will • Monitor and report on progress. take many years to reach the numerous decision-makers in their large target markets and therefore need to commence • Propose new measures and programs, as appropriate. early. There are also windows of opportunity associated • Review for new opportunities. with some projects (such as those under the FIT program) which will affect program timing. Lastly, the desire for early progress, the setting of program priorities by DRRCC and the capacity of staff to develop program concepts to the point of approval will also affect the sequence in which programs are brought forward for implementation.

40 LAP implementation strategies

Delivery agents and partners may include:

• Community not-for-profit organizations (like DSA) • Municipal governments • Service clubs • Resident and rate-payer organizations • Business associations • Educational institutions (e.g. school boards, Durham College, UOIT, Trent University) • Private companies • Energy utilities • Conservation Authorities • Public-private partnerships As each program in the LAP is developed for approval, community partners and delivery agents will be sought, identified and confirmed.

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 41 Adaptation to climate change

42 Adaptation to climate change 43

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local electricity and fuel distribution), vital services (health care, distribution), vital services electricity and fuel our social and economic security etc.) and food supply, for us to undertake adaptation systems. It is prudent we strive to limit future measures at the same time as measures. climate change through mitigation of Canadian society most A national study of the sectors recently identified urban vulnerable to climate change sector out of 24 sectors infrastructure as the most important Climate Change of Waterloo, or systems assessed (University Adaptation Project: Canada). Adaptation Project:

Here in Durham, we can expect to experience higher Here in Durham, we can expect heavy rains and temperatures, heat waves, droughts, and/or damage our storms. This will in turn overwhelm roads, water systems, physical infrastructure (buildings, term and reducing them in the medium term, we will term and reducing them in the of global warming— inevitably experience some degree droughts, sea level rise, together with the extreme weather, impacts that this will produce. ecosystem damage and other “locked achieving the optimistic in.” So, even if we succeed in GHG emissions in the near scenario of levelling off global Current and future concentrations of GHGs in the atmosphere concentrations of GHGs in Current and future is now amount of global warming mean that a certain Inevitable climate change climate Inevitable Durham Region corporate adaptation measures

The Regional Municipality of Durham has begun work on climate adaptation through specific program planning processes and long-standing corporate risk and asset management programs. Climate change considerations are embedded in the Region’s business management cycle. The Region of Durham currently maintains a system of infrastructure estimated at a replacement value of more than $9 billion. In addition to the ongoing asset management program, and considering both short and long term impacts, Regional staff are currently developing a wholistic multi-year adaptation strategy.

Ongoing research, initiatives and Washout of Finch Avenue in Toronto, August 19, 2005. strategies to mitigate climate risks (Photos courtesy of Jane-Finch.com) include: Research studies, including collaborative studies, to investigate and develop measures to mitigate risks; development of waste water and potable water servicing strategies; enhanced design and construction

44 Adaptation to climate change 45 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local Community climate adaptation climate Community critical to property, The damage continuity and business infrastructure to Regional will not be limited event of extreme property in the tornadoes and weather like floods, vital property, heat waves. Private electricity supply) and services (such as safety will all be at public health and to engage the Durham need risk. We in assessing the community at large risk, planning defensive actions and undertaking key investments. on In addition to continuing work the mitigation plan and programs, to the Region of Durham intends initiate a community adaptation planning process. can think of climate We mitigation as protecting the climate from us, and climate from adaptation as protecting us the climate. of new facilities and upgrades; and upgrades; of new facilities contingency protocols, procedures, planning to continuity and business in the event ensure service delivery maintenance of service disruption; reliable back-up of adequate and corporate systems; power for critical procedures for development of events; and staff extreme weather and training and resident education life-cycleprograms. A full approach will continue to ensure a sustainable strategy and funding related to climate change adaptation initiatives. The next steps

46 The next steps 47 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local departments, municipal partners and community departments, municipal partners institutions. community support. agents. business planning processes, part of the Region’s where applicable. • Research and further develop the program ideas. further develop the program • Research and on program design across Regional • Consult widely legal feasibility and technical, financial and • Test and engage community partners. • Find sector delivery • Identify community and/or private • Identify leverage opportunities. analyses, as business plans and financial • Prepare We now need to focus our efforts on converting the We program each For potential programs into real programs. concept, we now need to: Implementation plans But it’s a roadmap. It’s only a plan, not yet a set of being implemented. It’sprograms that are on the ground Vision—not yet action. potential—not reality. With receipt of this Community Climate Change LAP by this Community Climate Change With receipt of the Council on October 10, 2012, Durham Regional plan that can be described Durham community now has a and visionary. as comprehensive, effective, bold • Identify the necessary financial Maintaining flexibility Summary resources and other forms of As the Durham community is We have a clear future vision: support. developing and implementing these “Durham Region is a carbon-neutral, • Prepare a business case and potential programs, we need to also sustainable, prosperous and resilient seek approval of Regional be scanning other best practices community with a high quality of Council and other supporters, as for additional program concepts life.” necessary. that could be added to our plan. • Formalize partnerships with Technologies, policies, economic/legal We have a current reality which is supporters, delivery agents and drivers and climate conditions will far from the vision in a number of others. all be changing in the years ahead. aspects, but also affords us certain • Launch and roll out the This landscape of change may raise advantages in pursuing the vision. programs. new opportunities (and obligations) to refresh our current climate protection What we need is a set of effective, • Monitor and modify program programs in the short term and create strategic and high-leverage programs operations, as necessary. a “second generation” of programs in to move us from current reality to the • Evaluate and report on progress the longer term. vision. This plan is a good start! and success in all three areas of expected impacts— Adaptation planning environmental, economic and As outlined in the previous section, social. the Durham community also needs These activities will take time to to address climate adaptation by compete. Some potential programs preparing a region-wide Climate may take only a matter of months Adaptation Plan with programs and to fine-tune and launch; others may actions. The Adaptation Plan will take several years to fully develop and complement the mitigation programs reach the point of approval. Once proposed in this LAP. launched, some programs will take years to fully implement. This process is represented by the “Program Development & Approvals” block in Figure 6.

48 The next steps

FIGURE 6: PROCESS DIAGRAM REGION OF DURHAM COMMUNITY CLIMATE CHANGE LOCAL ACTION PLAN

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4

PHASE 1 PHASE 2 ANALYSIS, STAKEHOLDER PROGRAM PREPARATION APPROVED FRAMEWORK, GOALS IMPLEMENTATION CONSULTATION & REVIEW, COUNCIL PLAN DEVELOPMENT & OBJECTIVES PLAN PLAN PREPARATION APPROVAL & APPROVALS

Pgm 1 LAUNCH Pgm DPPG DPPG 2 Pgm ACCOMPLISHMENTS: ACCOMPLISHMENTS: ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 3 • MEMBERSHIP IN FCM-PCP • VISION • BEST PRACTICE ANALYSIS • CREATION OF DRRCC • MISSION • CARBON NEUTRAL Pgm MUNICIPALITIES WORKSHOP • GHG INVENTORY • TARGETS 4 • 23 ACTION PLAN • EDUCATION • THEMES CONCEPTS (APCs) Pgm -GOALS • PROGRESS REPORT ON 5 etc. -OBJECTIVES PHASE 2 (JULY 29/11) -EARLY ACTION IDEAS • 17 CONSOLIDATED APCs • PHASE 1 REPORT • STAKEHOLDER PRESENTATIONS (NOV. 24/10) • EARLY APPROVAL OF ADAPTATION • COUNCIL APPROVAL DURHAM PARTNERS IN PLAN (MARCH 9/11) PROJECT GREEN (DDPG) (DEC. 14/11)

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan 49 Appendices

50 Appendices 51 Health & Social Services Committee Alternate Councillor Jim McMillen Planning Committee Alternate Councillor Don Mitchell (Chair) & Administration Finance Committee Councillor Bob Shepherd Planning Committee Councillor Charlie Trim Committee Alternate Works Councillor Gerry Emm Councillor Gerry Committee Works Henry Councillor John Administration Committee & Finance Alternate Councillor Bonnie Littley Health & Social Services Committee Councillor Colleen Jordan Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local Citizen Member, Health Sector Citizen Member, Jeff Solly, Citizen Member, Development Sector Land Willard, Bob Representative of Citizen Member, Durham Sustain Ability Membership Membership 2009/2010 Anderson, Roger CEO Regional Chair and Buckles, Brian (Vice-Chair) Citizen Member, Regional Environment Sector Cohoon, Zac Agriculture Sector Citizen Member, Cubitt, Garry Officer Chief Administrative Alex Georgieff, Alternate Commissioner of Planning, Douglas Holdway, Educational Sector Citizen Member, McNeil, Patrick Energy Sector Citizen Member, Neil, Barry Health & Social Services Committee Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri Committee Alternate Works Councillor Don Mitchell (Chair) & Administration Finance Committee Rodrigues Councillor Peter Health & Social Services Committee Alternate Councillor John Aker Aker Councillor John Planning Committee Councillor Jack Ballinger Committee Works Councillor Bobbie Drew & Administration Committee Finance Alternate Councillor Joe Drumm Planning Committee Alternate Councillor Amy England (Vice-Chair) Willard,Bob of Representative Citizen Member, Durham Sustain Ability

Vroegh, Martin Citizen Member, Industry Sector Large Solly, Jeff Solly, Citizen Member, Development Sector Land Citizen Member, Educational Sector Citizen Member, Neil, Barry Health Sector Citizen Member, Hall, Todd Hall, Todd Energy Sector Citizen Member, Douglas Holdway, Georgieff, Alex Alex Georgieff, Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development, Alternate Gauder, Richard Richard Gauder, Citizen Member, Small Business Sector Cubitt, Garry Chief Administrative Officer Regional Chair and CEO Regional Chair and Buckles, Brian Citizen Member, Regional Environment Sector Membership Membership 2011/2012 Anderson, Roger

Roundtable on Climate Change Climate on Roundtable Appendix A Membership of the Durham Region Region Durham of the A Membership Appendix Appendix B List of contibutors to the LAP Phase 1 Fortin, Rebecca Marceau, Richard Community Development Council University of Ontario Institute Schillings, Hubert Adamson, Tim Durham of Technology Durham Agricultural Advisory Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. Goodchild, Colleen McMullen, Brianne Committee Anderson, Natalie Regional Municipality of Durham City of Oshawa (co-op Student) Singh, Bob Township of Scugog Grieve, Scott Mitchell, Don Hydro One Anello, Gio Durham Catholic District School Regional Councillor, Sisson, Perry Regional Municipality of Durham Board Regional Municipality of Durham Central Lake Ontario Conservation Bridgeman, Brian Ho, Doris Mueller, Jessica Authority Regional Municipality of Durham Regional Municipality of Durham VIRCA Sloan, Margo Chala, Tracey Hutzul, Larry Neil, Barry Ontario Power Generation Town of Ajax Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. Health sector representative Solly, Jeff (DRRCC member) Chornobay, Nestor Kelly, Brian Sorbara Group Regional Municipality of Durham Eco Pathways Consulting O’Connor, Larry Svelnis, Ingrid Township of Brock Clayton, Sarah Kelly, Jonah Township of Uxbridge Regional Municipality of Durham Regional Municipality of Durham Paquette, Joanne Tremayne, Mike Regional Municipality of Durham Cramer, Meg Kilbourne, Kristy Enbridge Gas Distribution Inc. CDCD City of Pickering Peacock, Mark VanSteen, Alex Ganaraska Region Conservation Curtis, Tracey Koke, John Regional Municipality of Durham Authority Regional Municipality of Durham Rouge Valley Properties Walters, Mike Pongracz, Michelle Davies, Ernie Lancaster, Pam Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation City of Pickering City of Oshawa Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority Dejan, Christine Authority Reid, Pauline Willard, Bob Regional Municipality of Durham Regional Municipality of Durham Larose, Paul-André Sustainability Advantage DiPietro, Anthony Oshawa Citizen Richards, Paul Wishnowski, Eryn Regional Municipality of Durham Lindeblom, Doug Regional Municipality of Durham Veridian Connections Edmonds, Anne Durham Strategic Energy Alliance Robins, Tim Worona, Joe Town of Whitby Lindell, Natalie Durham Catholic District Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) School Board Union Local 222 Elston, Suzanne Township of Scugog City of Oshawa Littley, Bonnie Ross, Andrew Green Diamond Industries England, Amy City of Pickering City of Oshawa, Councillor Lovisa, Don Salazar, Carlos Municipality of Clarington Evans, Rebecca Durham College Durham Region Home Builders Manns, Hida Samardzic, Mara Association Durham Environmental Advisory BILD

52 Appendices 53

Regional Municipality of Durham Larose, Paul-André Resident Leitch, Chris Regional Municipality of Durham Li, Joe Regional Municipality of Durham Bonnie Littley, City of Pickering Lovisa, Don Durham College MacDonald, Nathan Board of Trade Ajax-Pickering Mackle, John Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington CDSB Majid, Sheraz Hydro One Networks Inc. Karim, Dewan Karim, Dewan City of Oshawa Brian Kelly, of Durham Regional Municipality Jonah Kelly, of Durham Regional Municipality Amanda Kennedy, (Facilitator) Stantec Consulting Ltd. Chris Kennedy, (Facilitator) University of Toronto Joan Kerr, for Building Foundation Sustainable Communities Laliberte, Linda Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority Jennifer Lanegger, Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local Januszkiewicz, Mirka Januszkiewicz, Mirka Regional Municipality of Durham Jedinak, Joseph Whitby Hydro Electric Corporation Jordan, Colleen of Ajax Town Stantec Consulting Ltd. (Facilitator) Stantec Consulting Ltd. Thom Gettinby, of Brock Township Goodchild, Colleen of Durham Regional Municipality Grieve, Scott Durham Catholic District School Board Guerreiro, Vidal Regional Municipality of Durham Hall, Sheila Clarington Board of Trade Harrington, Meaghan City of Oshawa Bev Hendry, of Scugog Township Ho, Doris Regional Municipality of Durham Doug Holdway, University of Ontario Institute of Technology Janet Horner, Committee Agricultural Advisoty GTA Gauder, Richard Gauder, Business Rep. DRRCC - Small Chief Tracy Gauthier, of Nations - Mississaugas First Nation Scugog Island First Gee, Wesley Uxbridge BIA City of Oshawa Nathan Emery, City of Pickering Etchen, Arlene Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Evans, Rebecca Durham Region Home Builders Association Flores, Denise Oshawa PUC Networks Ken Gallacher, Pickering Village BIA Brian Denney, and Region Toronto Conservation Authority DiPietro, Anthony Regional Municipality of Durham Earle, Ben Council Policy Durham Food c/o CDCD Edmonds, Anne of Whitby Town Elston, Suzanne Clark, Dave Clark, Dave Connections Veridian Coe, Leo of Durham Regional Municipality Craven, Meaghan of Whitby Town Davies, Ernie City of Oshawa Dejan, Christine of Durham Regional Municipality deMel, Jeremy Chornobay, Nestor Chornobay, Regional Municipality of Durham Town of Ajax Town Peter Chatoff, Regional Municipality of Durham Regional environment representative (DRRCC member) Chala, Tracey Bristow, David Bristow, (Facilitator) University of Toronto Buckles, Brian Bridgeman, Brian Regional Municipality of Durham Bowman, Eric Agricultural community representative Berg, Peter Peter Berg, University of Ontario Institute of Technology Durham District School Board Durham District School Bereznai, George University of Ontario Institute of Technology Backus, Lisa Municipality of Clarington Martyn Beckett, Anello, Gioseph Anello, Gioseph of Durham Regional Municipality Township of Scugog Township Andres, Eric Oshawa PUC Networks Adamson, Tim Adamson, Distribution Inc. Enbridge Gas Anderson, Natalie Phase 2 Phase Malcomson, Robert Pearce, Michelle Shulyarenko, Iryna Vroegh, Martin Greater Oshawa Chamber City of Pickering Kawartha Conservation Authority St Marys Cement (DRRCC member) of Commerce Pejam, Mahmoud Singh, Bob Wallis, Ashley Manns, Hida Kawartha Conservation Authority Hydro One Networks Inc. Town of Ajax Durham Environmental Ujfalussy, Tom Sisson, Perry Werry, Marlene Advisory Committee Newcastle District Chamber Central Lake Ontario Regional Municipality of Durham Marceau, Richard of Commerce Conservation Authority Werry, Tracey University of Ontario Institute Powell, Russ Sloan, Margo Regional Municipality of Durham of Technology Central Lake Ontario Conservation Ontario Power Generation Wheatle, Jonathan McCollum, Ted Authority Solly, Jeff Durham Strategic Energy Alliance/ Beaverton District Chamber of Prentice, Lori Durham Region Home Builders Spark Centre Commerce Durham Home and Small Business Association (DRRCC Member) Whitaker, Chantal McCord, Deborah Association Stahl, Erica City of Pickering Regional Municipality of Durham Presta, John Regional Municipality of Durham Whitbread, Michelle McIntyre, Bernie Regional Municipality of Durham Stewart, Dave City of Oshawa Toronto Region Conservation Pulla, Paul Brooklin Downtown Authority (Facilitator) Willard, Bob Durham Catholic District Business Association Sustainability Advantage McKay, Kathy School Board Svelnis, Ingrid Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Williamson, Shawn Racansky, Libby Township of Uxbridge Durham Sustain Ability Messervery, Rob Friends of the Farewell Tenuta, Paula Kawartha Conservation Authority Williamson, Graeme Reesor, Anne Building Industry and Land Town of Whitby Meydam, Kerry Toronto Region Conservation Development Association - Durham Durham Environment Watch Authority (Recorder) Wood, D. Gayle Terry, Don and EFWAC Lake Simcoe Region Reid, Pauline Ontario Power Generation Conservation Authority Mitchell, Don Regional Municipality of Durham Tremayne, Mike Regional Councillor, Town of Whitby Wraith, Rachael Riviere-Doersam, Lori Enbridge Gas Durham Sustain Ability Moran, Greg Regional Municipality of Durham Underwood, Ford Durham College Rogers, Steve Enertech Professionals Inc All names and organizations Neil, Barry C. Automotive Parts Van Steen, Alex accurate at the time of consultation. Health sector representative Manufacturers’ Association Regional Municipality of Durham (DRRCC member) Ross, Andrew Verma, Shailen Pandya, Dhaval Green Diamond Industries Regional Municipality of Durham City of Pickering Rutherford, Nancy Vignarajah, Meera Peacock, Mark Regional Municipality of Durham Canada Mortgage and Ganaraska Region Shipley, Lyle Housing Corporation Conservation Authority Canada Green Building Council - Greater Toronto

54 Appendices 55 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local GHG emissions at or above current rates will cause further warming and induce many changes in the global climate system. Warming of the climate system is unequivocal. Continued Warming • 2. Climate change science: the IPCC 2. Climate change of body made up of thousands The IPCC is a scientific by change experts. It was established leading climate Meteorological (UN) and the World the United Nations to provide a clear scientific Organization with a mandate potential impacts, particularlyview on climate change and its report (Fourth The most recent IPCC to policy-makers. published in 2007. This Assessment Report or AR4) was findings previous to 2007. report summarized the scientific conditions based on six The report projected future climate intensive global fossil fuel scenarios ranging from a BAU global society focused on society to a non-fossil fuel-based Ranges sustainability. economic, social and environmental on the upper and lower of projected impacts are based limits defined by these scenarios. a grim view of the future: The IPCC AR4 findings present

A key step towards controlling and ultimately stopping A key step towards controlling increase is to significantly the rate of global temperature atmosphere. the Earth’s reduce the emission GHG into programs-cap-and-trade market-based and carbon Two elements of the solutiontaxation-are emerging as significant production of GHGs. There to reduce the North American efficacy of these programs is continuing debate about the and weaknesses. and each one has individual strengths for life on earth. Climate change and associated global for life on earth. Climate change threat to global systems warming is recognized as a severe outcomes. International, with the potential for catastrophic are being developed national and provincial/state efforts to this growing problem. and enhanced to find solutions Scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the conclusion overwhelmingly supports Scientific evidence altering the conditionsthat human activities are fundamentally 1. Background The following information is drawn from Report 2009-J-37, is drawn from Report The following information 23, 2009. Region Council on Sept. Durham by endorsed

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Change Climate on Panel Intergovernmental Appendix C Climate change science and the and the science change C Climate Appendix • Future global temperatures are likely to rise 1.8 to 4°C. 3. Current scientific evidence

• Future sea levels are likely to rise 18 to 59cm It is widely acknowledged that the data used by the IPCC (7 to 23 inches). in AR4 is at least five years out of date. This is a result of • Projected climate change-related exposures are likely accommodating the peer-review process in order to meet to negatively affect the health of millions of people the 2007 publish date for the report. A significant amount (increased death, disease, injury due to heat waves, of new scientific research exists, and it indicates that global floods, storms, fires and droughts; increases in climate change is happening at a faster rate than that malnutrition; etc.) predicted by the AR4.

• Cities that currently experience heat waves are Since 2007, direct scientific observations show some expected to face an increased number, intensity and climate change indicators measuring near the upper end of duration of heat waves. the range of projections indicated by the IPCC AR4. In the • Global water stress (decrease in freshwater availability) case of sea level rise, the direct observations show changes is expected, with an increasing competition for over- above even the worst case scenario projected by the IPCC. allocated water resources. Findings include:

• 20 to 30% of species will be at increased risk of • Ocean warming is about 50% greater than had been extinction if the rise in global temperatures exceed stated in the IPCC AR4. 1.5 to 2.5°C. • Possible sea-level rise of greater than a metre by 2100 • The resilience of ecosystems is likely to be exceeded (compared to 18 to 59 cm projected by AR4). this century by climate change, associated • The rapid reduction in Arctic sea ice in summer in disturbances (flood, drought, wildfire, insects, ocean both 2007 and 2008 was significantly greater than acidification, etc) and other global change drivers projected by the IPCC. This is very important, as ice (land-use change, pollution, etc.). coverage is critical for climate control. Ice reflects • Continued warming could lead to some impacts that the energy from the sun back out to the atmosphere, are abrupt or irreversible (e.g. loss of ice sheets could rather than allowing it to be absorbed into the ocean result in metres of sea level rise, etc.). where it has an increased warming effect on global temperatures. This creates a positive feedback loop— sea ice melts -> less ice -> more ocean warming -> sea ice melts.

56 Appendices 57 Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local seasons, shifts in regional-scaleseasons, patterns precipitation negative significant This has Australian drought). (e.g. societies that depend on regular, effects on human and precipitation. patterns of temperature long-term • Regional climates are changing—shifts in monsoon in monsoon changing—shifts climates are • Regional The IPCC is currently working on the fifth assessment working on the fifth assessment The IPCC is currently it is for publication in 2013. However report, scheduled of the scientific that the vast majority important to recognize dangers maintaining that the community is steadfastly the climate cannot be overstated, posed by a changing human and the implications for danger is immediate, society are truly catastrophic. root cause of current The only means to address the is to reduce the human-induced climate change in the atmosphere. concentration of greenhouse gases

2 sinks (the oceans, the forests, the Arctic sinks (the oceans, the forests, 2 increased global temperature etc.) -> reduction in increased global temperature natural CO in atmospheric water vapour (the most abundant water vapour (the most abundant in atmospheric not human-induced) -> increased greenhouse gas, atmospheric temperature. permafrost) -> increasing climate change effects. permafrost) -> increasing climate gas) from melting methane (a potent greenhouse temperature. permafrost -> increased atmospheric Sea ice melts -> oceans warm up -> sea ice melts. oceans warm up -> sea ice Sea ice melts -> temperature -> increase Increased atmospheric acidification, climate change effects (ocean Increasing Increased atmospheric temperature -> release of Increased atmospheric temperature of warming) of positive of positive of warming) increase in rate (the likely factor show the amplification loops. Results feedback include: feedback loops Positive could exceed 50%. methane and nitrous oxide (all greenhouse gases) are methane and nitrous oxide (all since before modern now higher than they have been Atmospheric CO humans evolved (ice core data). concentrations are the highest they have been for concentrations are the highest (sediment and other approximately 20 million years paleoclimatic records). extreme events—heat waves, storms, and floods. s s s s • Research is starting to quantify the amplifying effects effects quantify the amplifying is starting to • Research • Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, • Atmospheric concentrations • Observed increase in the number and intensity of • Observed increase in the number 4. GHG emission reduction targets or more recent years”, failing to specify a mid-term target makes the likelihood of emissions peaking before The recent Group of Eight (G8) declaration (July 2009) with 2015 improbable. respect to climate change states that: 5. The need for more aggressive targets First and foremost, in the light of the recommendations of the international scientific community, the G8 has There is a call from some highly reputable climate recognized the importance of limiting the rise in global experts (including Jim Hansen, who heads the National temperature to 2°C (above pre-industrial levels), in order Aeronautics and Space Administration Goddard Institute to avoid the risk of serious economic consequences for Space Studies; and Rajendra Pachauri, the UN’s top and irreversible damage to the environment and the climate scientist, who leads IPCC for even deeper emissions

climatic system. reductions), in order to keep the CO2e concentrations below 350 ppm. Based on the IPCC AR4, to stabilize the average global temperature at this 2°C level (over pre-industrial This number of 350 ppm is based on paleo-climatic data

temperatures) the concentration of eCO2 must be limited showing that the last time the planet was thought to be

to 450 parts per million (ppm) in the atmosphere. This 2°C warmer, when CO2 concentrations were 450 ppm, the

translates to global reductions of CO2e emissions of 50 world was largely ice-free and sea levels were 60 metres

to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. Industrialized nations (200 feet) higher. Others call for cutting net CO2 emissions must make larger reductions, given their larger share of 80% by 2020 (source: Brown et al., 2008). emissions so the IPCC targets for industrialized nations are: Given the changes that have already occurred to global • 25 to 40% below 1990 levels by 2020 systems when the average global temperature is 0.8°C • 80 to 95% below 1990 levels by 2050 higher than pre-industrial levels, and when scientists agree that the planet is locked into at least another 0.6°C The IPCC notes that in order to stabilize the concentration due to current emissions levels, a 2°C threshold appears of GHGs in the atmosphere at 450 ppm, emissions will to be too high. At the moment, however, a 2°C limit is have to peak before 2015 and subsequently continue the agreed-upon target by world political leaders, and to decline. While the G8 supports this long term goal as such, strategies to achieve this target must be at least of “developed countries reducing emissions of GHG in planned and implemented as a starting point for any future aggregate by 80% or more by 2050 compared to 1990 mitigation actions.

58 Appendices 59

Community Climate Change Local Action Plan Community Climate Change Local

______Notes: Notes: More information: For background information on the Durham Region community LAP, and its development, please visit: www.durham.ca/climatechange. To comment on the LAP or seek further information, contact:

Brian Kelly Manager of Sustainability Region of Durham Email: [email protected] Phone: 905-668-4113 ext. 3803

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