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Layin' down the law
Clearing the air
Local Eco-heroes
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Local Eco-heroes

Some of the world’s biggest stars are using their influence to protect the environment.

Hollywood A-lister Leonard DiCaprio, for example, recently produced the documentary, "The 11th Hour", which features appearances by David Suzuki. Another Hollywood insider, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, has helped pass some of the strictest vehicle standards in North America.

But you don’t have to go all the way to Hollywood to see an environmental hero. In fact, in some cities, you just need to visit your local city hall and see the mayor.

Toronto is implementing an environmental plan that’s lauded as one of the most comprehensive and thorough in North America. The plan will promote local food production and increase community gardens, double Toronto's tree canopy, and shift taxis and limousines to low emission or hybrid technology.

Calgary was the first North American city to retrofit residential street lights with new, lower-wattage fixtures. Most of the city's street lights feature the new fixtures, which will regain the cost of installing them through energy savings.

The fact that Canada's mayors are doing something is important for all city residents. It means that we can play an active role in protecting our air. Mayors aren't doing these things on their own. They’re reacting to the needs of residents. So if your mayor is doing something good for the environment, tell your city councilor.

Learn more:
  • Toronto’s environment plan
  • Listen to our podcast interview with Lawson Oates, Toronto’s environment director about how the city’s environmental plan was developed. He was the feature interview in our August 9th podcast.
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