Environment
The City of Burlington is committed to reducing our impact on the environment and building a low carbon and climate resilient community. Learn about how we are taking action through our planning, and initiatives.
Take Action Burlington blog
Subscribe to the Take Action Burlington blog and get notifications straight to your email whenever a new post is launched! The blog showcases the City's environmental accomplishments and initiatives, profiles community events and programs, and also highlights what individuals can do at home and work in creating a healthy, environmentally friendly community. We all have a role to play in shaping a sustainable future.
To subscribe, simply enter your email address and select the "Follow" button on the blog's website. You can also join the conversation on social media with the hashtags #TakeActionBurlington and #LiveGreenBurl.
Climate change
Learn about how we are taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for the effects of climate change in our community, such as our:
- Burlington Climate Plan: Taking Action to Reduce Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- Climate Resilient Burlington: A Plan for Adapting to Our Warmer, Wetter and Wilder Weather
- Corporate Energy and Emissions Management Plan (PDF)
- Climate-related commitments made through our Strategic Plan and From Vision to Focus Plan
Energy initiatives
There are many choices to be made in how we use energy through energy efficiency and conservation, building retrofits and cleaner sources of energy. Discover more about energy initiatives, including:
- Energy and City operations
- Energy and buildings
Emergency management
Our climate is changing – bringing warmer, wetter, and more unpredictable weather. Being prepared can make all the difference. Learn how you and your household can stay safe before, during, and after severe weather events, and explore how emergency management supports our community.
Environmental programs
Learn how to participate in community environmental programs that can make a difference, including:
- Anti-idling campaigns
- Community clean-up initiatives
- Halton Children's Water Festival
Water and stormwater
We operate several water and stormwater related programs, in combination with our regional, provincial and federal partners, to ensure our water is drinkable and treated responsibly for generations to come. Discover more about:
- Drinking water
- Well water
- Pool and hot tub maintenance
- Water conservation efforts
- Stormwater safety and drainage systems
- Water educational resources and programs
Local Food, Farms, Community Gardens and Markets
Learn more about local food in the community, including:
- Community gardens and gardening resources
- Local farms with fresh produce
- Farmers' markets
- Food for those in need
- Local food education
Electric mobility
As part of our ongoing environmental sustainability efforts, we offer many public charging stations to charge your electric vehicle.
Idling
Our Idling Control Bylaw limits unnecessary idling when citizens are waiting in their vehicles at schools, transit terminals, shopping malls or other locations throughout the community. Visit our Idling page to learn how to report excessive idling, purchase a 'no idling' sign and find learning resources for schools.