2030 Energy Strategy

22 How We WILL ACHIEVE IT COMMUNITY-BASED INITIATIVES There are two main ways to reduce emissions from transportation-reduce distances driven, or increase the efficiency of the vehicles being driven. The GNWT and the AEA will work with NWT communities to identify and implement programs to assist them to reduce their emissions from transportation. Programs may include the following: Community Based Solutions: Within larger population centres such as Yellowknife, programs aimed at increasing use of public transit (e.g. subsidized bus passes). Viable solutions include car- pooling and car sharing initiatives, and improving the fuel efficiency of transit vehicles. Active Transport: Active transport means walking, cycling (or skiing or snowshoeing!) instead of driving. This reduces vehicle emissions, saves money by burning less fuel, and promotes personal health and well-being. Existing programs and competitions, such as Walk-To-Tuk and Commuter Challenges promote active transport. Expanding similar programs to run year-round or making it easier or safer for residents to choose active transport, such as building a sidewalk along a main road, may create incentives for people to leave their vehicles behind more often. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS The GNWT will undertake an education and awareness campaign to promote green driving behaviour such as smart idling, efficient driving practices, encourage efficient vehicle choice, and promote alternative transportation choices such as transit, car-pooling or ride-sharing, and active transport. This action will support and complement many of the other actions listed. VEHICLE STANDARDS AND BIOFUELS The GNWT will continue to work with the federal government to continually improve vehicle efficiency standards, and to ensure that renewable fuel standards are appropriate for the North. The GNWT will periodically assess the status of liquid biofuels-such as biodiesel and ethanol-for transportation. Their use will be assessed in the NWT context, including price and availability, stability in long-term storage and at low temperatures, and cold weather performance. It should be noted that biofuel can still cause air pollution, and have land use and potential food security concerns. The GNWT and the AEA will work with NWT communities to identify and implement programs to assist them to reduce their emissions from transportation. 1441414149

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