Rich Peers
City/Township Council · Kitchener Ward 5
Back to candidatesClimate & Sustainability
How should municipalities and the Region incorporate climate and sustainability into policy, including development and infrastructure decisions?select up to 3 per part
A. Perspective on climate change
- Climate change is an urgent and defining crisis of our time; reducing greenhouse gas emissions should be a primary consideration across municipal decision-making
B. Building and development standards
- Where possible, require or incentivize energy efficiency standards in new development, beyond current provincial minimums, Require green infrastructure as part of development approvals (e.g. stormwater management, tree canopy, permeable surfaces)
C. Infrastructure and capital planning
- Require an assessment of impacts on aquifer recharge
Describe one concrete policy, incentive, or decision you would prioritize to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Where possible, explain how it balances environmental goals with fiscal responsibility.candidate's own words
I would prioritize energy-efficiency upgrades to municipal buildings and facilities, such as better insulation, heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient lighting. These projects can reduce emissions while also lowering the City’s long-term operating and energy costs. I would prioritize projects based on measurable emissions reductions, payback periods and lifecycle costs, so environmental investments also make fiscal sense for taxpayers.