Tay Valley Township Implementing Climate Action Plan

Tay Valley Township Implementing Climate Action Plan

Tay Valley Township continues to move forward with positive changes for both the Township and the planet.  The Public Works Department has numerous projects underway that align with Tay Valley’s Climate Action Plan including retrofits for buildings, waste management audits, and the purchase of the Township’s first electric vehicle (EV). 

“Council recognizes that people in Eastern Ontario, and across the globe, are experiencing the climate crisis. It is vital that we make changes now to ensure a healthy future for the Township and generations of residents to come.  Some of these changes are small, while others require significant investment, and they are all important.  Council is making decisions with the environment in mind.  Tay Valley intends to be a leader in environmental action to ensure responsible and sustainable operations,” said Reeve Brian Campbell. 

In 2021 Building Condition Assessments (BCAs) were completed at multiple municipal locations, creating a template for upgrades, maintenance and environmentally effective retrofits. BCAs guide Township decisions for repairs and upgrades. Emphasis will be placed on actions that maintain function and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., upgrading to LED lighting, insulating pipes, installing energy efficient HVAC systems). In addition, four (4) grants will be submitted in 2022 that will improve municipal facilities with a focus on energy savings and environmental performance. 

At the August 9, 2022, Council meeting the purchase of the first electric vehicle and high speed electric charger for Township use were approved. Numerous models were considered, however an all-wheel drive utility model was mandatory to ensure safer travelling during the winter months when building inspections and site visits are required on many private roads. The Ford Mach-E SUV was selected. 

Fully electric with a range of 354 km on one charge, this EV will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save on maintenance and gasoline expenses. The Township will receive a $5000 rebate from the Federal government and $5000 from Lanark County. Finally, the sale of the Township’s 2013 internal combustion engine vehicle will also contribute to the purchase. On order for delivery in 2023, the Mach-E is an excellent investment. 

Waste audits continue, whereby garbage bags are diverted and evaluated to assess the amount of organic waste (e.g., kitchen waste, paper, plastic etc.). When kitchen scraps break down in the landfill, they release methane, a greenhouse gas more powerful than CO². Tay Valley Township continues to strive to reduce waste and maximize recycling. Waste audits are not only an environmentally beneficial activity, they also translate into financial savings by identifying strategies for reducing landfill use. 

“The Township is determined to improve its financial and environmental bottom lines. It is a necessity to keep the environment as a top priority to preserve our Township’s extraordinary natural resources and not take them for granted.” said CAO/Clerk Amanda Mabo. 

To review the Tay Valley Township Climate Action Plan please visit:

https://www.tayvalleytwp.ca/en/municipal-government/resources/Reports--Plans/Climate-Action-Plan.pdf