Natural Resources Canada
2005/13
March 17, 2005

Energy Ambassadors Find Energy Efficiency Pays

OTTAWA - Forty-three university students from across Canada have seen their future and it is green - in more ways than one. In a ceremony today, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) named these students Energy Ambassadors for their projects related to energy efficiency.

Launched in the fall of 2002, Energy Ambassadors is an annual competition that recognizes and rewards undergraduate post-secondary students for achievements in the field of energy efficiency. The program, delivered by NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency, draws attention to the role of energy efficiency in reducing Canada's production of greenhouse gas emissions.

"I am delighted to congratulate this select group of young people whose ingenuity and talent have earned them recognition from the Government of Canada, as well as the respect of teaching faculty and fellow students across Canada," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. "They are role models for Canadians of all ages."

Reducing energy consumption is important because it reduces pollutants, including greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Energy efficiency is also good for the economy - it makes industries more competitive, encourages technology development and creates jobs.

To underscore the economic importance of energy efficiency, each winner or winning team receives a cheque for $1,000. Energy Ambassadors also earn a trip to Ottawa, where they will meet with energy-efficiency leaders from industry, utilities and the non-profit sector at the presentation of Canada's Energy Efficiency Awards on March 18.

The Energy Ambassadors program supports the Government of Canada's commitment to the sustainable development of our natural resources and builds on the strength of our country and our people - with all its diversity, knowledge and determination.

Forty-three university students from across Canada were given Energy Ambassador awards by Natural Resources Canada in Ottawa today. The awards are presented every year to recognize outstanding student projects related to energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

For more information, media may contact:

The following media backgrounder is also available:

1. Canada's Energy Ambassadors: 2005 Winners

For photographs of award winners, please contact Media Relations at 613-992-4447 or by e-mail at media@nrcan.gc.ca