2022 projects save energy, conserve water resources and increase canopy cover

RICHMOND HILL – The City of Richmond Hill continues to demonstrate its commitment to becoming a more sustainable and resilient community – one that values the environment and takes action to protect it.

Since receiving approval last July, Richmond Hill’s updated Environment Strategy has continued to build upon the City and community’s legacy of environmental stewardship and improvement. A report to Council outlined 2022 environmental achievements. Select accomplishments include:

• Energy efficiency upgrades at City facilities including installation of low-emissivity ceilings and over-the-ice LED lighting at Tom Graham and Ed Sackfield Arenas
• A Windfall Centre Sustainability Award for reducing energy use intensity by 6% and GHG emissions intensity by 11% from 2020 to 2021 at the City’s Operations Centre
• Replacement of the Bayview Hill Pool filtration system, which will reduce water consumption and operational costs
• Growth of our tree canopy with 11,245 trees and shrubs planted – 9,855 on City property by 1,350 volunteers through our Community Stewardship Program and 1,390 by residents on private property through our Healthy Yards Program
• Implementation of a Corporate Single-Use Plastics Reduction Policy and related educational resources for staff and vendors at City facilities and events
• Release of our updated Sustainability Metrics Program, an important way we encourage and evaluate the sustainability and resiliency of new developments
• Council approval of an updated Parks Plan, which aims to use parks to connect communities and include environmentally-friendly and climate resilient features such as more native plants, trees, pollinator and rain gardens
• Litter clean-up in 70 parks and trails and 105 streets during the Clean Up, Green Up event thanks to more than 9,000 community volunteers
• Completion of a number of important stormwater management and valleyland enhancement projects that help prevent flooding, erosion and improve water quality

For more information about Richmond Hill’s environmental programs, achievements and how to get involved, visit RichmondHill.ca/Greening.

Quotes

“All of these efforts work together to protect our natural environment and tackle climate change issues from every angle. I’m proud that Richmond Hill and our community is so forward-thinking on the environment and that we are taking action together.” - Mayor David West

Additional Links

• 2022 Environmental Achievements Highlight Sheet