Let’s TransformTO Together

Grants of up to $7,500 are available for resident-led climate action projects in Neighbourhood Improvement Areas!

TransformTO is Toronto’s ambitious climate action strategy. It includes short and long-term actions to meet the City’s greenhouse gas [GHG] reduction targets of 65 per cent by 2030, and 80 per cent by 2050*. Meeting these targets will require big changes in how we live, work, build, travel, and more.

In Toronto, our homes and buildings, vehicles, and waste are the largest sources of GHG emissions. Reducing these emissions will require participation from all of Toronto’s communities and residents. Learn more about our work engaging Torontonians in climate action and how you can contribute. Let’s TransformTO together!

*community-wide reductions based on 1990 levels

Public consultations are taking place this fall for the next TransformTO Implementation Plan 2021-2023 and Reducing Single-Use & Takeaway Items.

Homes & Buildings

Targets:
  • By 2030: All new buildings will be built to near zero GHG
  • By 2050: 75% of energy will be renewable or low-carbon
Here’s what you can do:
  • Retrofit your home – get a home energy audit, seal drafts, upgrade insulation and appliances
  • Reduce your energy and water use, especially during peak hours
  • Get a programmable thermostat
  • Use LED bulbs, turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use
  • Consider a green or cool roof when replacing your roof

 

Transportation

Targets:
  • By 2050: 100% of vehicles will use low-carbon energy
  • By 2050: 75% of trips under 5 km will be walked or cycled
Here’s what you can do:
  • Walk or cycle trips under 5 km
  • Use transit, carpool or telework as a part of your regular routine
  • Take the bus or train instead of flying
  • Choose electric or hybrid vehicles over gas-powered
  • Don’t idle your vehicle

 

Waste

Target:
  • By 2050: 95% of waste will be diverted from landfills
Here’s what you can do:
  • Buy less; choose products with minimal packaging
  • Repair, share, swap or donate as much as possible
  • Recycle right; check the Waste Wizard if you’re not sure what
    goes where
  • Buy used and vintage items more often
  • Enjoy more plant-based foods, compost food scraps

As a part of TransformTO implementation, the City of Toronto’s Environment and Energy Division convened a network of multi-disciplinary stakeholders to help support city-wide community engagement in climate action.

On January 10, 2019, over 80 community partners were brought together in a collaborative workshop. Participants recommended a list of key actions, and projects ideas that can help engage Torontonians in climate action. More information about the recommendations and next steps is summarized in the Climate Change Engagement Workshop Report.

Efforts are underway to support projects and partnerships that formed as a result of the workshop. Please contact Tamara Grossutti or Megan MacLean for potential partnership opportunities and to find out more.

To help support ongoing community leadership and engagement in climate action, the City of Toronto is able to offer the following resources:

  • Access and partnering on grant applications
  • Marketing and promotional support
  • Logistics support
  • Provision of venues
  • Project support
  • Networking and connections
  • Event staffing / support
  • Relevant data and information
  • Neighbourhood grants for climate action

Please contact Tamara Grossutti or Megan MacLean if you require any support.

In 2018, the City commissioned a survey to capture residents’ perceptions on climate change and to better understand their willingness to take action in the community. The results from this survey will assist the City in establishing climate action priorities, goals, and metrics that will measure success. Read the survey report.

Learn more about the TransformTO strategy.