Treaty 1 Territory, Homeland of the Red River Métis, Winnipeg, Manitoba –
Mayoral candidate Rick Shone released the third in a series of climate change announcements today, pledging innovative investments in green infrastructure, making environmental stewardship a priority this election.
If elected mayor, Shone would:
1. Focus on smart infill and better mixed-use development over greenfield development;
2. Implement a city-wide composting program with financial support from other levels of government;
3. Hire a city planner whose sole focus would be to research innovations and green development;
4. Where possible, require all new city-owned building developments to be built to LEED-certified Gold or Platinum standards;
5. And invest in retrofitting existing city-owned buildings to improve energy efficiency. These promises are in addition to Shone’s early announcement that he will phase out the city’s use of gas-powered lawn and yard equipment by 2030.
“By making these changes, we can make a real difference in reducing our footprint while building a more sustainable and resilient city,” said Shone. “We need to focus on the future and do our part to protect our environment.”
Shone explained that the City of Winnipeg can reduce its footprint by focusing on modal shifts, building a high-frequency transit system and an active transportation system that works. Simply switching over to all-electric vehicles is not the answer to congestion or to a changing climate.
“The best time to start making changes to improve our city and our environment was yesterday,” said Shone. “I will work with Winnipeggers and other levels of government to build a more environmentally friendly and resilient city for the future.”
“There is no time to waste when it comes to the environment,” said Shone. “We need to take action now to build a more sustainable and resilient city for the future, and we can lead.”
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