The City of Markham has achieved the final milestone of a program that helps municipal governments reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and protect the climate.
“This recognition reaffirms the City of Markham’s commitment and dedication to environmental sustainability,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Taking action on climate change results in environmental, social and economic benefits for the entire community.”
The Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program guides members through a five-step framework to help each take action on climate change by reducing emissions in their municipality. Each step, from creating an inventory to reaching an emissions reduction target, moves the municipality closer to achieving its climate goals.
The City’s goal is to achieve Net-Zero GHG Emissions by 2050. More than 500 municipalities representing 70 per cent of Canada’s population are members of the program. Just 71 of those municipalities – or 17 per cent – have achieved Milestone 5.
Markham achieved the final milestone for its corporate assets by completing a requirement related to monitoring and reporting the impact of its Corporate Energy Management Plan. The plan has resulted in more than $2 million per year in utility cost savings, 14 per cent GHG emissions reductions per capita, 2.1 megawatts of installed solar PV and 18 industry-recognized awards. It also helped the City garner more than $1.8 million in grants and incentives.
Over the past decade, Markham has implemented more than 200 initiatives, including the installation of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems in its facilities, improved and standardized building automation systems, implementing Green Building Standards, engagement and educational programs like Battle of the Buildings, and fleet vehicle migration to lower-carbon alternatives.
