What You Can Do

What You Can Do

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Reducing greenhouse gas emissions requires everyone to play a part. You can start by calculating your carbon footprint using a carbon calculator. This tool tells you the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) you've released in a year through activities like driving and energy use. It offers tailored suggestions for the top things you can do to reduce emissions. Many online carbon calculators are available to choose from. For example, the District of Saanich's Carbon Calculator can be a helpful resource but emissions may vary due to our community's unique characteristics.

Here are some changes you can make to your daily life to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly region:

At Home
At Home

We offer various programs to help you make a positive impact on climate change and preparing for emergencies from the comfort of your own home. We also have incentives to support your efforts.

Explore the options below to discover actions you can take, listed in order of what has the greatest impact to the lowest impact. Make climate-friendly and energy-efficient upgrades to your home, including:

  • Switching from natural gas, propane or oil heating systems (e.g. furnaces or boilers) to electricity (e.g. heat pumps)
  • Installing a renewable energy source (e.g. solar panels)
  • Upgrading your windows and doors
  • Adding or improving insulation
  • Upgrading appliances like refrigerators, washers and dryers to ENERGY STAR® rated models
  • Replacing incandescent lights with LEDs
  • Installing “smart” or programmable thermostats
  • Draft proof your home


Visit our Steps to Home Energy Efficiency page for money-saving tips and a step-by-step guide on completing your next upgrade. You can also sign up for the Home Energy Navigator Program to receive customized support undertaking energy retrofits in your home.

Here's some other actions you can take at home: 

  • Conserve water by following tips from Team Water Smart, such as using water efficiently, inspecting your irrigation system for leaks, staying informed about current watering restrictions and more.
  • Decrease your consumption, practice reusing and embrace composting! Familiarize yourself with waste separation and learn about disposal guidelines through the ReThink Waste campaign. 
  • Register for Voyent Alert, the RDN Emergency Alert System to receive notifications in case of an emergency.

 

On the Move
On the Move

Did you know that the majority of greenhouse gas emissions in our region come from transportation? Making changes to your travel habits can benefit your health, improve air quality and save you money.

Here’s what you can do to reduce emissions:

  • Live a car free lifestyle - choose active transportation such as walking or cycling
  • Switch to an electric car
  • Plan local trips and use the bus or train instead of flying
  • Use public transit
  • Carpool with others who work or live nearby. Find more information here
  • Consider using a car share instead of owning a vehicle
  • If you’re not ready to switch vehicles, reduce emissions from your current car by:

More resources

  • GobyBike Week: GobyBike Week encourages more people to cycle regularly. Throughout this two week-long event, the RDN motivates residents to use their bicycles for transportation and provides resources to help them ride confidently.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer

Taking action for the climate can be enjoyable, especially when you do it with likeminded community members. Here are some volunteer opportunities available in the RDN: