April 22, Halton Hills - The Acton Arena and Community Centre hosted the much-anticipated "Race to Net Zero" event on Earth Day, attracting more than 650 participants. The event aimed to promote low carbon emissions and offered a wide array of activities and presentations on sustainable living.
Jennifer Spence, the Climate Change Outreach Coordinator for Halton Hills, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, "This is an event to promote low carbon emissions." She continued, "49% of emissions in Halton Hills come from fossil fuel vehicles. If people switched to an electric vehicle when they are ready for a new vehicle, they would significantly reduce their carbon emissions."
The event also showcased ways for people to retrofit their homes, making them more energy-efficient and reducing their carbon emissions. Spence noted, "We had presentations on ways people can retrofit their homes to reduce their carbon emissions and make their homes more energy-efficient."
Mayor Ann Lawlor and Ward 3 Councillor Garneau were also on hand at the event.
Councillor Garneau shared her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "It's a great opportunity for residents, community groups, and the town to come together and share what is important to them. This event was great because there was a variety of interests and opportunities here." She also expressed her excitement about the large turnout, adding, "My highlight was seeing everyone. I haven't seen this volume and capacity of people since before COVID. It was really exciting to see everybody and feel the excitement that everyone had for being out again and connecting to each other also around positive things they can do, so it was hopeful and energizing."
The "Race to Net Zero" event featured several activities, including a 22-Minute Makeover, where schools and businesses cleaned up their properties for 22 minutes, and a Used Bike Swap organized by the Halton Hills Bike It Working Group. Additionally, a Community Cleanup encouraged participants to clean up parks, trails, and other areas in need of attention.
Halton Hills also introduced a Tree Voucher Pilot Program to support residents in planting more resilient mature trees on their property. The program offers a $30 cost savings for a minimum $50 tree purchase at participating local garden centers.
Furthermore, the town will be providing free compost and wood chips on Saturday, May 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Robert C. Austin Operations Centre (11620 Trafalgar Rd, Georgetown). Attendees are encouraged to bring a shovel and container, and donations to the food bank will be accepted.
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