Climate Action — Local Transportation

Issue Summary

Widespread use of vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE)

Municipal design makes individual vehicle ownership more convenient than public transportation

Consumer expectations prioritize convenience above environmental responsibility

Main contributors/problems

Per 10,000km, personal vehicles produce this much carbon:

Vehicle Type Est. CO2 Produced (Tonnes)
Electric Vehicle (e.g. Tesla, Leaf, Bolt) 0.14 *
Plug-in Hybrid (e.g. Volt, Clarity, Prius Prime) 0.55 ** (0.45 from gas)
Hybrid Compact (e.g. Prius) 1.2
Compact (e.g. Yaris, Fit) 1.9
Hybrid Mid-size (e.g. Fusion) 1.5
Mid-size (e.g. Corolla, Accord) 2.1
Hybrid Full-size (e.g. Sonata) 1.6
Full size (e.g. Sonata) 2.3
Hybrid Crossover (e.g. Rogue) 1.9
Crossover (e.g. Crosstrek) 2.2
Hybrid Small SUV (e.g. Highlander) 2.3
Small SUV (e.g. Highlander) 2.8
Hybrid SUV (e.g. ) 2.3
SUV (e.g. Pilot) 3.5

* CO2 values for EVs, PHEVs based on Ontario energy grid (very conservative est. 77g/kWh)
** Plug-in Hybrid assumption: 1 tank of gas (40L) per 2,000km

What can we do personally / congregationally?

Reduce car usage by walking or cycling when weather permits

Plan ahead and carpool when walking/cycling is not feasible

Consider switching to an all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle

Ontario’s grid is quite good with respect to carbon emissions

Take public transit, including to/from church

Consider changing church worship times to fit public transit schedule (#19 bus stops in front of the playhouse hourly beginning at 8:49am)

What is the end goal / solution?

Policy?

Government?

Money?

Websites/Links for more information?

WNMC Contact People/Resources regarding Local Transportion