Liberal Housing Plan must align with Canada’s climate commitments

Ottawa (TRADITIONAL, UNCEDED TERRITORY OF THE ALGONQUIN ANISHNAABEG PEOPLE) – Any housing plans released by Federal Parties must include commitments to build homes that use non-emitting heating systems. This includes the Liberal Party’s Housing Plan released today. In response to the plan Lana Goldberg, SAFE Cities climate campaigner with Stand.earth, said:

“We appreciate the Liberal Party’s housing plan, especially the creation of a new public entity for building homes and a focus on affordable housing. However, any public funds channeled into new construction must leave behind polluting oil and gas heating systems to be consistent with Canada’s climate goals.” [1]

The burning of oil and gas to heat buildings is responsible for 13% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions – the third largest source of the country’s pollution. 

“We now have more advanced technologies that can heat buildings in a low-carbon way,” continued Golberg. “A great example is the use of electric heat pumps which run on electricity and are several times more efficient than gas or oil furnaces which leads to much lower emissions as well as lower monthly energy bills for residents. Heat pumps have the added advantage of doubling as air conditioners in the summer and are able to filter indoor air pollution. There is no reason to continue to install antiquated heating systems when we have modern clean solutions that are better for the planet, public health, and our wallets.” [2]

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Notes for editors

[1] Read more about Canada’s climate goals here
[2] Read more about heat pump costs and efficiency here.

Media contacts:

Lana Goldberg, SAFE Cities climate campaigner – Stand.earth. Email:

Lana.goldberg@stand.earth

Arin de Hoog, Canada communications coordinator – Stand.earth. (613) 978-7329

Email: arin.dehoog@Stand.earth