Mohawk College is a committed leader in climate action – making our campus and community more sustainable. We all have a role to play.
Learn how you can take action Download full version graphic (PDF)
8 facts that REQUIRE attention
- The average mortality rate due to pollution is 4.6% higher in Hamilton than most Canadian cities. Many of the pollutants that harm our health also contribute to climate change and environmental degradation.
- Hamilton is far behind its waste reduction goals: currently at 34% diversion, with a goal of 65% by 2021.
- 58% of Hamilton’s total carbon emissions are from industry, this is equal to 6,052,478 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e).
- Due to rising temperatures black-legged ticks are moving further north and staying for a longer period of time. This puts Bay Area citizens at an increased risk of developing Lyme disease.
- More trees please! Hamilton has only 18% tree canopy cover – Environment Canada recommends 30%. Hamilton and Burlington both have urban forestry strategies, but private citizens and businesses can also help. Trees reduce air pollution, sequester greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce the heat island effect.
- Annual Average Temperature in Hamilton has increased 0.9°C since 1970. Rainfalls have become more frequent and intense. This causes flooding and significant erosion to the region’s shoreline and escarpment.
- Invasive species are on the rise, negatively impacting local agriculture, forestry and natural ecosystems.
- Single-occupancy vehicle trips make up 67% of all trips in Hamilton. Transportation is one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the region.
8 facts to INSPIRE action
- The Joyce Centre for Partnership & Innovation at Mohawk College is the first building in Canada to receive dual certification for Zero Carbon Building for design and performance from the Canada Green Building Council.
- Air quality has improved over the last two decades. Dangerous air pollutants like benzene are down 89%.
- In 2019, Hamilton and Burlington citizens staged over 135 civic actions in one day as part of 100in1Day – a global celebration of active citizenship.
- Hamilton is a leader in Passive House design. Hamilton will soon be home to the first Passive House tower retrofit in Canada.
- Hamilton Pollinator Paradise Project includes 300+ pollinator gardens. Each garden supports pollinators, which play critical roles in food production and biodiversity.
- Between 2006-2017 total Hamilton greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 38%.
- There are more than 100 different bike routes around Hamilton and Burlington and 187km of off road bike routes. There are 130+ bicycling sharing hubs across Hamilton.
- Both Hamilton and Burlington declared a Climate Emergency in 2019; Hamilton is striving for carbon neutrality by 2050 and Burlington by 2040!
Programs, reports, and stories to inspire action
- View the Mohawk College Sustainability Impact Report_Open PDF version (2.7mb)
- Get a FREE tree planted in your front yard with the City of Hamilton's Street Tree Planting Program
- Learn more about the Ken Soble Tower passive house retrofit
- Use this interactive chart to learn about air quality in your area
- Find a sustainable transportation option that works for you
- Adventure along a new bicycle routes in Hamilton and Burlington
- Participate in 100in1day online this year
- Discover plant alternatives to avoid planting invasive species
- Learn how you can better manage increased rainfalls with Green Venture's stormwater program
- Complete a quick questionnaire to calculate your carbon footprint
- Help Hamilton reach its waste goals - brush up on some recycling tips