Region keeps corporate greenhouse gas emissions down in 2021

Electricenergyonline.com
July 12, 2022

The Regional Municipality of York corporate greenhouse gas emissions fell by 710 tonnes this past year to 65,980 tonnes, 18% below pre-pandemic emissions targets as highlighted in 2021 Corporate Energy Report.

"York Region is steadfast in its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050," said York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson. "It is imperative all levels of government take action now to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and limit irreversible global warming impacts to protect our planet and generations to come.

The annual Corporate Energy Report is York Region's primary tool for reporting progress toward achievement of York Regional Council approved emission targets. Reduced corporate emissions resulting from mitigation efforts support the Region's work to address priorities in the draft Climate Change Action Plan.

Initiatives like replacing electric vehicles, including transit buses, building system upgrades and hybrid police patrol vehicles are producing immediate and measurable emission and cost reductions. Long-term climate change action plans under development will guide future efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

Operational changes, specifically to transit service ridership, in response to the pandemic account for most of York Region's corporate emission reductions. It is anticipated corporate emissions will rebound with an increase in transit service while successes from long-term efforts will continue beyond the global pandemic.

"While York Region's contribution compared to overall community emissions may seem small, we recognize we have a leadership role with emission reduction initiatives," said City of Vaughan Regional Councillor Mario Ferri, Chair of Environmental Services. "By working with local cities and towns on fleet electrification, best practices and initiatives toward reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, we can achieve a more sustainable future."

Office consolidations, conducting business virtually, digital processes and reduced employee vehicle use saved the Region $1.8 million and contributed to the Region's 2021 emissions reductions.

Corporate energy costs increased by 5% to $45.6 million in 2021 driven by rising prices for gasoline, diesel fuel, natural gas and federal carbon tax. Annual costs associated with the carbon tax are projected to add $9.7 million to the Region's annual operating costs by 2030, driving opportunities to further reduce fossil fuel use.

Regional Council has recently approved the Zero Emissions Transit Fund Application, a federal government program providing financial support to municipal transit agencies pursuing fleet electrification. If approved, York Region Transit could accelerate vehicle electrification and transition its entire fleet from 2051 to 2041. York Region Transit currently operates 12 electric buses in the Region that reduce fuel, maintenance costs, noise and emissions.