November 2006

Tip Sheets

Truck drivers go "Idle-Free"

A campaign running from December 1, 2006, to February 28, 2007, is encouraging truck drivers across Canada to turn off their engines at truck stops. NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency is promoting the   5th annual Idle-Free Quiet Zone campaign by giving away information and prizes at participating truck stops. The campaign aims to help our environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.

Fuel Consumption Guide and EnerGuide Award Winners

The new 2007 Fuel Consumption Guide and EnerGuide Award Winners will be available by the end of November. The Guide, published annually by NRCan, provides fuel consumption and related information on new light-duty vehicles sold in Canada each year. The Award winners are the most fuel-efficient vehicles in their class for the 2007 model year. The information can be used to compare model-specific fuel consumption to help you select the most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets your everyday needs. These are available on line, or you can call our toll free number at 1-800-387-2000 to order your copy.

Enjoy the fire, not the smoke.... Burn it Smart!

Did you know that wood smoke contains more than 100 different toxic substances? Indeed, on an annual basis in Canada, smoke from wood heating makes up almost 30% of the emissions of fine particulate matter coming from human activities. Other activities that produce this type of emission are transport and industry. This particulate matter can be inhaled deep into the lungs and has serious potential health risks. Young children and the elderly, as well as those suffering from cardiovascular and respiratory disease, are especially vulnerable to the presence of these pollutants in the air. Here are some tips to reduce wood smoke in your environment.

Saving energy in your home

As the days get shorter and the nights longer, we spend more time indoors with the lights on. Why not save money by replacing frequently used lights with compact fluorescents? Save more money by replacing weatherstripping that's worn; don’t forget high traffic areas around exterior doors. Here are more tips to save energy in your home.

For more information on Tipsheet articles, or for an interview with subject matter experts, media can call 613-992-4447, or e-mail media@nrcan.gc.ca.