Climate Change Central forges ahead with additional funding and unique new office

04/05/2001

The province is taking another big step forward in its mission to find made-in-Alberta solutions to help address the issue of climate change.

Environment Minister Lorne Taylor announced that an additional $1.5 million in funding will be provided to Climate Change Central, a private-public partnership established in 1999 to serve as a catalyst for, and coordinator of, activities by individuals, businesses, institutions and governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Along with its previous commitment, the Alberta government has now contributed $7.5 million for its part in establishing and supporting Climate Change Central.

"The Alberta government will not waver in its commitment to seek out innovative ways to battle a problem that is a threat to our environmental well-being," said Taylor. "We are pleased to be a part of Climate Change Central and, along with our many partners in this organization, work to make a difference not only in Alberta, but around the world."

The $1.5 million will be used to leverage additional funding on a variety of projects from other sources, including the private sector. These projects, created with input from government, industry and environmental groups represent actions in a number of program areas:
  • Greenhouse gas management (capture and geologic storage of emissions)
  • Land use management and enhancement (biological sinks which capture and store carbon dioxide)
  • Energy efficiency in buildings and communities
  • Improved vehicle and transportation efficiencies
  • Alternative power generation
  • Education


Taylor presented a cheque for the additional funding to Climate Change Central Co-Chair David Tuer and President and CEO Allan Amey at the official opening of Climate Change Central's new and environmentally unique Calgary office.

The office was designed and developed by Duncan and Company Interior Design Consultants of Calgary, following initial consultation from Manasc Isaac Architects of Edmonton. For its strict compliance with environmental criteria, Climate Change Central's office has been awarded Environment Canada's EcoLogo certification.

"Our office is really a showcase that demonstrates the idea of a 'green office' is not only attainable, but it is cost-effective and a great place for people to work," said Allan Amey, President and CEO of Climate Change Central.

Energy-efficient lighting features in the not-for-profit organization's offices will save 21 tonnes of carbon emissions a year. Other energy-saving office design features include:
  • Optimal use of daylight plus energy-efficient lighting,
  • Occupancy sensors that turn lights off when a room is empty,
  • Innovative floor coverings from recycled materials,
  • Office furniture that can be 100 per cent recycled,
  • Water conserving plumbing fixtures,
  • Maximum re-use of building materials, and
  • Local buying (to reduce transportation costs).


For further information, contact:
Allan Amey, President and CEO
Climate Change Central
(403) 517-2701
Suite 100, 999 - 8 Street, S.W. Calgary
www.climatechangecentral.com

David May
Communications
Alberta Environment
(780) 718-4685 (Cell)
(780) 427-5525 (Edmonton office)
www.gov.ab.ca/env/