crc blog feed

Following France's leadership from COP21, it is 'paving' the way in road innovation. The country is planning to provide power to millions of homes with the implementation of a technology called Wattway. The polycrystalline panels that will make up an innovative new road surface will transform solar energy into electricity, ostensibly turning existing infrastructure into an excellent opportunity for clean energy integration. The impact is minimal, as the panels themselves measure just 7mm thick and can be laid atop existing roadways.

The Alberta government recently announced its plan for a 5.5 million dollar investment in solar power for both municipalities and farms. The plan will fund incentives in the form of rebates, to encourage more solar installations in municipal infrastructure. With 500,000 dollars earmarked for the On-Farm Solar Management program, they’re looking to provide long term energy stability for the agricultural sector.

I had the privilege of participating in a celebration of life for Maurice Strong two weeks ago in Ottawa. Maurice had helped me out of a political situation over twenty years ago, which subsequently put me on my academic path. Three days ago I learned that a friend and former professor of mine had died, Dr. Jim MacKenzie.

What changes we have made to the planet in such a short period of time.

I try to blog mostly on the positive side of the ledger, but also mindful of how difficult it is to realize changes of the magnitude that are needed to significantly reduce greenhous gas emissions in my lifetime and transition to a carbon neutral economy by 2050. Yet, I believe it is doable, and perhaps even by 2030, if only our governments will lead.

Japan is tackling its land shortage in a smart way, with the building of what will eventually be the world’s largest floating solar farm. Solar power generation is a wonderful renewable alternative, but it does require a significant footprint. Japan is looking to innovative alternatives due to the shortage of land.

As the fastest growing city in Europe, Stockholm's plans for new housing are playing with both the ideas of imcreasing urban density and creating workable, walkable greenspace.

Leonardo Dicaprio continues to be a leader in the fight against climate change. He announced his plans to distribute grants totalling 15 million dollars to several organizations to aid initiatives protecting oceans, rainforests and that bring greater international awareness to the effects of carbon emissions.

Listening to the radio this morning and a discussion about the rising cost of food--an eight dollar cauliflower. I buy a winter organic food basket, and guess what, it protects me from these outside market forces, much of which are fuelled ironically by the dropping costs of oil. So, by buying locally, and thereby seasonally, it is also economically great, an unanticipated co-benefit of trying for a healthier life-style.

Something to think about on a Friday afternoon.