Diagram
Find your starting point
- IndividualsStart with everyday choices
- StudentsFollow the evidence
- HouseholdsUnderstand the building first
- BusinessesMeasure before investing
- CommunitiesMake participation possible
Individuals · Start with everyday choices
Low-cost starting point: consider whether a trip can be walked, cycled, shared or combined, where safe and accessible. Reduce avoidable food waste and learn where your energy comes from. These are options, not judgments: infrastructure, health and household needs shape what is possible.[1]
In shortPick options that fit your situation; there is no single correct choice.
Students · Follow the evidence
Low-cost starting point: trace one environmental claim back to its original publication. Compare the claim with the study’s location, date and limitations. Explore a school energy-use investigation with permission and share findings without collecting personal information.[1]
In shortTrace a claim back to its original source before repeating it.
Households · Understand the building first
Start by reviewing energy bills and identifying comfort problems. For a larger investment, seek a qualified assessment of insulation, air leakage and heating equipment before selecting a heat pump. Compare written quotes and cold-weather performance; verify current local incentives directly with their providers.[17][18]
In shortAssess the building before choosing the equipment.
Businesses · Measure before investing
Begin with an inventory of energy use, equipment and operating schedules. Identify unnecessary use, then assess capital improvements such as building retrofits or fleet electrification. Evaluate lifetime costs, supply chains and emissions boundaries rather than relying on a single green label.[1]
In shortMeasure energy use before spending on upgrades.
Communities · Make participation possible
Start a source-based learning discussion or take part in public consultation. Larger projects such as shared energy infrastructure need feasibility studies, fair access and meaningful involvement of affected communities. Include ecological impacts, accessibility and long-term maintenance in decisions.[1]
In shortLarger projects work when affected people can take part fairly.
Sources & further reading
- [1] IPCC. Climate Change 2023: Synthesis Report — Summary for Policymakers (opens in a new tab) (2023).
- [17] Natural Resources Canada. Heating and Cooling with a Heat Pump (opens in a new tab) (Not dated).
- [18] Natural Resources Canada. Heat Pump Basics (opens in a new tab) (Not dated).