2008 BC Budget rewards energy efficiency improvements to buildings

The BC government has embraced the concept of a carbon tax as a means to address emissions that result in climate change. While BC is the first province in Canada to formally adopt this approach, and indeed it is a good start, we have a long way to go in very little time.
To understand the cost impacts, the government states that a family of four driving a minivan and heating their home with natural gas will pay about $45 in 2008 and $118 in 2009 carbon tax. These costs will be offset by income tax reductions. Those who choose to reduce their carbon footprints can save enough on their household expenses to come out ahead financially.
Some examples of lower-carbon choices and their estimated savings in fuel costs and carbon tax are provided as follows:

• Keep vehicle tuned up and tires properly inflated up so it runs at peak efficiency - More than $200
• Drive 10 km less per week - More than $50
• Switch to a higher efficiency vehicle (from 12 L/100 km to 10 L/100 km) - More than $400
• Weatherize doors and windows - More than $40
• Switch to a high-efficiency furnace - More than $250

The average Canadian household emits 13 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually. BC residents can anticipate the following annual carbon reductions on a per home basis (courtesy Vancity and Pembina):

At Home

• Lowering thermostat when not at home - 0.4t
• Using low-flow showerheads - 0.1t
• Turn down the hot water temperature - 0.1t
• Wash clothes in cold water - 0.2t
• Replace lightbulbs - 0.1t
• Weatherstrip windows and doors - 0.1t
• Upgrade home insulation - 0.4t
• Total emission savings possible - 1.4 tonnes

On the road

• Maintain vehicle regularly - 0.5t
• Not idle vehicle - 0.3t
• Take one less flight per year - 0.6t
• Reduce cruising speed - 0.1t
• Take transit to work - 0.9t
• Replace car with a fuel-efficient model - 1.2t
• Total emission savings possible - 3.6 tonnes

In addition to tax reductions, the government also proposes that every British Columbian will receive a $100 Climate Action Dividend this June, before the carbon tax takes effect. People are encouraged to use this money on purchases that reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and, in the process, reduce the amount they pay in carbon tax.
There are a number of non-profits working hard to help British Columbians to reduce carbon emissions. It would be my proposal to invite residents to contribute their $100 to those organizations to further the efforts to reduce carbon quickly. Organizations working to reduce BC's carbon emissions include:
BC Sustainable Energy Association
Pembina Foundation
The David Suzuki Foundation
SPEC
Cascadia Green Building Council
BEST
SmartGrowth BC
Fraser Basin Council

... and Light House!