Conservation Calendar
Look
inside for your Wet-Dry+ Waste collection schedule
Conservation Calendar Heffernan Street Footbridge
Calendar
feat ures
Community Energy Plan update
January
Guelph’s Waste Management Plan
February
Guelph water
March
Bicycle Friendly Guelph
April
Healthy Landscapes
May
Home composting
June
Summer water and energy saving tips
July
Eating local foods
August
Back to school
September
Indoor water conservation
October
Winter energy saving tips
November
Holiday waste reduction
December
PHASES OF THE MOON First quarter Full moon
Last quarter New moon
United States Naval Observatory
What's happening?
Making a Difference
Find out what City events and programs are taking place each month in the What’s happening? section. More information on events and programs will be available online at guelph.ca and in the City News pages in the Friday edition of the Guelph Tribune.
Check out the monthly Making a Difference section to discover how the people and organizations in the city are making a difference when it comes to conservation. From big projects like the Community Energy Plan to smaller ones like the development of eco-friendly community gardens, Guelph residents and organizations are making meaningful differences.
Residents capture Guelph’s
nat ural beauty
The 2009 Conservation Calendar features photos from local residents and photographers that have captured Guelph’s seasonal beauty. Many of these scenic shots were submitted as part of the City’s ‘Making a Difference’ photo contest. Thanks to all of the photographers for sharing their unique view of Guelph.
Have a
greatGuelph shot?
Guelph’s breathtaking beauty and commitment to green activities is a source of great pride. Do you have a photo that illustrates Guelph’s beauty? Send it to: Corporate Communications, City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph ON N1H 3A1. Your photo may be featured in the 2010 Conservation Calendar or another City publication. The longest side of the picture for digital files should be at least 3,000 pixels and have a minimum resolution of 300 pixels per inch. Print photos should be a minimum of 8” by 10”.
On behalf of Guelph City Council, it’s my
pleasure to introduce the 2009 Conservation Calendar. MANY OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS in this year’s calendar are submissions from our 'Making a Difference' photo contest. I want to thank the citizens who participated in the contest, providing their unique perspectives on our beautiful city. Your photographs give us a new appreciation for all Guelph has to offer. As you will read throughout the calendar, individuals and organizations in our city are making a difference for the environment every day through their conservation efforts. Guelphites have shown they are up to the challenge of changing their habits to benefit the environment, whether by conserving water, sorting waste, or gardening without pesticides. Products such as compact fluorescent light bulbs, garden composters, and rain barrels have been enthusiastically embraced – often more so than in other communities. I am proud to be the mayor of a city that continues to show leadership on the environment. In our strategic plan, we set out ambitious goals for the future: to have less waste per capita, and use less energy and water per capita than any comparable Canadian city; and to produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the current global average. One way we will achieve these objectives is through the implementation of our Community Energy Plan (CEP). Under the CEP, Guelph could use less energy in 25 years than it does today, and cut greenhouse emissions by 9 tonnes per person – even as our city continues to grow. I hope you find this calendar helpful and inspiring throughout the year. I want to thank all citizens for your efforts to conserve resources. It’s one important way that Guelph is making a difference.
Karen Farbridge Mayor
Arkell Trail morning fog by Angèle Gilbert DECEMBER 2008 S M 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29
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» Christmas Tree Collection » Keep fire hydrants clear of snow » Put your waste bags and containers at the end of your driveway or in a spot shovelled from the snowbank
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
january
IN 2007, Guelph City Council unanimously endorsed the vision, goals and general directions of a 25-year Community Energy Plan (CEP) that will put Guelph on the cutting edge for North America. Realizing the CEP’s targets, Guelph would use less energy in 25 years than it does today – even with expected growth. It could also cut its annual greenhouse gas emissions by nine tonnes per person, putting Guelph among the top energy performers in the world. Guelph City Council has ranked implementation of the CEP as the number one priority project in Council’s Strategic Plan. Integration of the CEP with City programs is underway. More than 60 individual projects are in progress as part of the Plan’s implementation, including: » Building a combined heat and power generation plant at the University of Guelph, which would save 16,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year. » Participating in a pilot program to help Natural Resources Canada develop a system to rate buildings based on their energy performance. » Installing 1,000 solar roofs in the city to promote renewable energy. » Developing a green building strategy and other incentives to promote energy-efficient development. » Building a green fire station in the south-end that will use 50% less energy and 30% less water. For more information about Guelph’s Community Energy Plan visit guelph.ca/CEP.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Guelph’s New City Hall is green inside and out! Guelph’s New City Hall uses efficient heating, cooling, lighting and plumbing, and will meet the LEED Silver standard set out by the Canadian Green Building Council. Plants growing on the roof insulate the building. A living wall and air filtration system maintain healthy air quality.
february
IN SEPTEMBER 2008, Guelph City Council unanimously voted to adopt the recommendations of the Solid Waste Management Master Plan (SWMMP) – a guiding document that will help Guelph regain its status as a leader in waste management. The SWMMP identifies waste minimization, diversion and disposal targets, and the shortand long-term initiatives to achieve these goals, working towards an overall vision of zero waste.
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WHAT’S THE CITY DOING? » Recycling glass materials. Guelph’s new glass sorting equipment will increase the City’s diversion rate by 5%. » Building a new composting facility to process organic waste, improving Guelph’s diversion rate by 10%. » Looking at ways to improve waste collection in parks and public spaces and at public events. » Helping residents connect with local organizations and businesses that provide take-back and reuse programs.
Valentine’s Day
Collection is one day later this week
Family Day
HOW CAN YOU HELP? » Be a good sort! Keep sorting your recyclable, organic and waste materials. » Help keep valuable recyclables out of the landfill. The City generates roughly $3 million from the sale of Guelph’s recyclables, which then goes towards offsetting the costs of waste management. » Reap the rewards of home composting. More than 30% of household garbage can be composted. Start a backyard composter for your kitchen scraps and yard waste. » Reduce the amount of waste you produce. The average Ontarian tosses one tonne of waste per year. Buy items that use recycled materials, are produced locally, are packaged responsibly and can be reused or recycled.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
School board tackles waste reduction in the classroom. The Upper Grand District School Board is conducting waste audits in its 71 schools to create Waste Management Plans to reduce the amount of waste created in classrooms, cafeterias and offices. Schools will also look for ways to reuse and recycle products to avoid sending them to the landfill.
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Property tax instalment due
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
» Keep fire hydrants clear of snow » Put your waste bags and containers at the end of your driveway or in a spot shovelled from the snowbank
Week A
Week B
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
Web-footed friend by Deborah Wilson FEBRUARY S 1 8 15 22
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march
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Celebrating 130 years of
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DID YOU KNOW that Guelph’s municipal drinking water undergoes more than 18,000 microbiological and chemical tests each year to ensure it meets the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards? In all cases, Guelph water continues to meet or exceed these standards. Take pride in Guelph water – it’s the clear choice.
QUICK FACTS 99.9% Rating on water quality tests in the Chief Drinking Water Inspector’s Annual Report for 2006-2007.
18.6 MILLION
Daylight saving time begins
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Cubic metres of water pumped in 2007.
1,700 Number of times you could fill a 500 ml container with municipal drinking water for the same price as buying just one bottle of water in the store. St. Patrick’s Day
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GUELPH WATER ON TAP
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For drinks on the run, invest in a stainless steel reusable bottle which you can fill up at any faucet. You’ll save money and the environment!
DID YOU KNOW… Earth Hour 8:30 p.m.
World Water Day
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Week A
Week B
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
» Keep fire hydrants clear of snow » Put your waste bags and containers at the end of your driveway or in a spot shovelled from the snowbank » Pick up your Guelph Community Guide and register for seasonal recreation programs
» It takes three litres of water to produce one litre of bottled water.* » It takes around 3.4 megajoules of energy to make a typical one-litre plastic bottle, cap and packaging.* » The PET bottles water is usually sold in require nearly 900,000 tonnes of plastic produced from fossil fuels.* * The Pacific Institute
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Green living on campus. In 2007, Guelph Campus Co-op made an environmental pledge and created plans to turn one of its student residences into a fully accessible 'green' living space. The student house features a rainwater collection facility, a greywater system and a green roof, in addition to many other environmentally-friendly features.
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THE CITY OF GUELPH’S new Bicycle-Friendly Guelph initiative aims to improve the safety, convenience, and attractiveness of cycling in Guelph. The key objective of the initiative is to triple the number of trips made on bicycles by 2017. Be a part of it – go by bike!
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CYCLING FACTS » In urban settings, it's often faster to cycle distances of 5 km or less than it is to drive. At least 75% of daily trips made within Guelph are 5 km or less.* » Three hours of bicycling per week can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by 50%.** » Save $8,000-$10,000 annually on the ownership and operating costs of a vehicle by riding a bicycle for most trips.*** » Never worry about parking. » On a bicycle you can travel up to 1,037 km on the energy equivalent of a single litre of gas.****
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SAFETY FIRST » Helmets are like seatbelts – they can save your life, but only if worn properly. » Be visible and clearly signal your intentions when cycling in traffic. » Motorists are not expecting high-speed cyclists when crossing a sidewalk. Walk your bike, or use the road. » Be courteous on the trails and notify pedestrians of your approach.
Arboretum grasses by Kirk White
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For more information about the City's Transportation Demand Management initiatives visit guelph.ca/tdm.
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
» Goods Exchange Weekend (April 10-12) » Spring Watermain Cleaning Program
* 2006 Transportation Tomorrow Survey *** Canadian Automobile Association ** Trek **** University of Aberdeen
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Guelph's newest urban forest. On April 25 the Rotary Club of Guelph (RCG) invites you to plant a tree at the Guelph Lake Nature Centre. The RCG, with support from the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Grand River Conservation Foundation, is committed to planting 65,000 trees over the next 12 years, increasing Guelph's tree canopy from 31 to 40%. For details visit www.rotaryclubofguelph.com. Planting a tree elsewhere? Register it at www.guelphforest.ca.
Week A
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
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Spring Yard Waste Collection Spring Watermain Cleaning Program Goods Exchange Weekend (May 15-18) Outdoor watering restrictions are in effect Healthy Landscapes gardening workshops Fresh, local asparagus, rhubarb and spinach are arriving at the Guelph Farmers’ Market
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A HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE GARDEN is best achieved by having a balanced ecosystem. Healthy, natural landscapes can be achieved with nutrient-rich soil, the right amount of water, and a diverse mix of plant species.
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Adding organic matter to the soil helps it store air, water, nutrients, and micro-organisms. Adding compost to gardens and top dressing lawns with compost in the spring and fall will improve soil conditions and promote healthy plant growth.
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DIVERSIFY YOUR GARDEN
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Diversifying the plants in your yard will create a more balanced ecosystem, attract pollinators to your garden, and reduce pest problems.
NEED SOME HELP GETTING STARTED?
Victoria Day Guelph Eco Days
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Good watering practices will reduce plant stress and improve pest and disease resistance. Watering for longer durations less frequently encourages deep rooting of plants and reduces susceptibility to drought stress. Established native and drought tolerant plants often don’t need supplemental watering with weekly rainfall. A healthy lawn needs only 2.5 cm (1 in.) of water per week.
Waterloo Wellington Children’s Groundwater Festival week starts
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
Contact the City of Guelph to book a free landscape assessment. A Landscape Advisor will visit your property to provide site-specific suggestions and landscape advice to make your landscape more water efficient and naturally beautiful. To sign up for the Landscape Assessment Program send an e-mail to healthylandscapes@guelph.ca.
Family Water Festival, Doon Heritage Crossroads, Kitchener
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Creating natural spaces in our city. The Guelph Environmental Network has built a demonstration garden on a former hydro substation to help educate and inspire fellow residents to reduce their gardening footprint. The Palmer Street Ecology Project features a diverse range of native plants, trees and shrubs. Mulch is used to conserve moisture and the grass is cut with a push mower to reduce fossil fuel.
Wet-Dry+ Waste collection schedule
Heffernan Street Footbridge
Make sure you don’t miss your Waste collection week – post this schedule on your refrigerator for easy reference.
Includes
» » » » »
Collection map Collection calendar Curbside collection guidelines Sorting information Special collection programs and services
Wet-Dry+ Collection Information
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Please note: This schedule only applies to residents who currently participate in Wet-Dry+ curbside collection.
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In Guelph, WET (green) and DRY (blue) bags and containers are collected weekly on your regular collection day, while WASTE (clear) bags and containers are collected every other week according to two collection schedules – Week A and Week B. To determine your collection schedule, use the collection map to determine which schedule is the correct one for your area. If your street falls in a PURPLE ZONE, follow the Week A schedule. If your street falls in a YELLOW ZONE, follow the Week B schedule. You can also use the City’s interactive mapping system to determine your regular collection day and your clear WASTE collection week – visit maps.guelph.ca. Once you’ve identified your collection week, check the calendar below to see during which week your clear waste will be picked up. The collection weeks are also marked throughout this calendar by purple and yellow coloured bars.
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Heffernan Street Footbridge
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remember
Things to when taking out the trash...
Curbside collection
 Get familiar with Guelph’s three-stream sorting requirements – refer to the coloured bags at the bottom of the page.  Wet and Dry bags and containers are collected weekly. Waste is collected every other week according to your collection schedule.  Dry materials and Waste can be placed loose in a garbage can or container as long as each stream is in a separate container that is clearly labelled 'Dry' and 'Waste'.  When using bags, waste must be placed in transparent, coloured bags: Dry waste: blue bag, Wet waste: green bag, Waste for landfill: clear bag. Bags that are not see-through will not be collected.  Items must be placed loose and separate in the coloured bags, not within another plastic bag. Bags that contain other plastic bags of garbage will not be collected.  Dry and Waste bags and containers must not exceed 20 kg (40 lbs). Wet bags and containers must not exceed 15 kg (33 lbs).  Wet waste can also be placed in a labelled container but it cannot be placed loose – it must be placed in a see-through green plastic bag before being placed in the container.  All containers must have a lid and two handles; must not exceed 100 litres; and their dimensions must be between 24 to 30 inches in height, and no more than 22.5 inches in any other direction.  Bags or containers must be at the curb by 7 a.m. on your collection day, and no earlier than 7 p.m. the night before your collection day. Non-compliant waste must be removed from the curb by 7 p.m. on your collection day.  Place waste within one foot of the curb for safe and efficient collection. During the winter, place bags and containers in the mouth of your driveway or in a spot shovelled from the snowbank. Waste must not be placed on top of snowbanks.  Dry sorting tips: t 'MBUUFO BMM DBSECPBSE BOE CPYCPBSE NBUFSJBM t 3FNPWF MJET GSPN BMM DPOUBJOFST BOE CPUUMFT t &NQUZ BOE SJOTF PS XJQF BMM CPUUMFT BOE DPOUBJOFST
Âť All cardboard must be bundled and tied and cannot exceed 3 ft in length or 2 ft in any other dimension, or exceed 20 kg (44 lbs) in weight. Âť Cardboard can also be broken down and placed in a box that does not exceed the above dimensions. Âť For your convenience, you can also bring large cardboard to the Waste Resource Innovation Centre at no charge.
CARDBOARD
guidelines SHARP OBJECTS
PET WASTE
Âť Sharp objects (i.e. broken glass, razor blades, sewing needles, knives, scissors, screws, nails, light bulbs, etc.) must be placed in a cardboard box no larger than 2 ft in any direction. Âť Tape the box shut, label it 'sharp objects' and place at the curb during your clear Waste collection week.
Âť Cat litter and pet waste are accepted as Wet waste and must be double-bagged and placed loose in transparent green bags. Âť Before pet waste can be collected it must be drained of all liquid. Large amounts of pet waste should be double-bagged to prevent bags from tearing open at the curb.
Wet-Dry+ sorting list (For a detailed sorting list visit guelph.ca/wetdry)
GREEN
BLUE
for wet compostables Âť Food items (scraps, peels, bones, shells, etc.) Âť Paper towels and tissues Âť Tea bags, coffee filters and coffee grounds Âť Diapers and sanitary products Âť Household plants Âť Animal waste and litter
for dry recyclables Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť Âť
Aluminum Boxboard Cardboard (flattened) Glass (all colours) Newsprint Paper Plastic containers (all numbers) Polycoat Steel Styrofoam (large pieces)
CLEAR for waste
Items that are:  NOT recyclable (DRY)  NOT compostable (WET)  NOT hazardous  and can’t be donated Before you toss, think of the loss. Let’s not waste valuable resources.
Wet-Dry+ Collection Information Heffernan Street Footbridge
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE (HHW) » Hazardous wastes generated in the home, such as batteries, cleaners and solvents, and fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent light bulbs are not collected at the curb. » HHW items must be brought to the HHW Depot where items will be disposed of safely and properly.
YARD WASTE COLLECTION » Curbside yard waste collection takes place twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall.* » Yard waste can also be dropped off, free of charge, at the Waste Resource Innovation Centre year-round. » Yard waste includes: r (SBTT DMJQQJOHT JODMVEJOH UIBUDI r -FBWFT r )FEHF USJNNJOHT r 8PPEZ QMBOUT JODMVEJOH WJOFT SPTF CVTIFT r #SVTI CSBODIFT BOE USFF MJNCT XJUI B EJBNFUFS less than 5 cm (2 in)
PAINT+ REUSE PROGRAM
PUBLIC DROP-OFF Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays
» This seasonal program allows residents to pick up used paint and other household products, free of charge. » The program opens in the spring and closes in the fall.*
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DEPOT
TAKE IT BACK DIRECTORY
Tuesday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Closed Sunday, Monday and holidays
» This online directory connects residents to businesses and organizations in the community that will reuse, recycle, or safely dispose of a number of unwanted materials. » Visit guelph.ca/takeitback to view the directory.
CHRISTMAS TREE COLLECTION » Curbside Christmas tree pickup takes place in January.* » Trees can also be brought to the Waste Resource Innovation Centre, free of charge.
HOLIDAY WASTE COLLECTION » There will be no curbside waste collection on any statutory holiday. Waste collection that falls on a holiday will be collected the following day and curbside collection will move ahead one day for the remainder of that week.
TAGGART ST
DUNLOP DR Waste Resource Innovation Centre 110 Dunlop Dr
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed weekends and holidays Facilities listed above are located at 110 Dunlop Drive.
SOLID WASTE RESOURCES T 519-767-0598 E wetdry@guelph.ca guelph.ca/wetdry
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» Guelph Eco Days events include free electronic waste drop-off, backyard composter and rain barrel sales, recycling facility tours, and city-wide goods exchange weekends. » Eco Days event dates are listed throughout the 2009 Conservation Calendar.
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» Large items, such as furniture and appliances, are not collected at the curb. You must bring large items to the Waste Resource Innovation Centre (WRIC) and pay the appropriate tipping fee or use the City’s user-pay Bulky Item Collection Program. » Bulky item permits must be purchased in advance from the WRIC, ServiceGuelph (City Hall) or Operations office. Once you have your permit, call 519-767-0598 to arrange for pickup.
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COMPOSTING IS NATURE’S WAY OF RECYCLING.
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Composting is the natural breakdown of organic material (kitchen and yard waste) by micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi. Besides reducing the amount of household garbage you produce, composting also creates a nutrient-rich soil that can be used for gardening and landscaping. Clean Air Day
Environment Week
Adding compost to your garden, around trees and shrubs, and as a top-dressing on your lawn will provide your plants with an excellent source of nutrients. Compost improves soil structure, which contributes to good aeration and moisture-holding capacity.
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HOME COMPOSTING Composting is fun and easy, and your plants will reap the rewards. To start a home composter include equal amounts of 'brown' (high in carbon) and 'green' (high in nitrogen) organic materials. Brown materials include grass clippings, dried bread, sawdust, shredded newspaper, and coffee filters. Green materials include fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds, and crushed egg shells. Be sure to keep meats, oils, diseased plants, pet waste, and dairy products out of the composter.
NEED A BACKYARD COMPOSTER? Earth Machine composters can be purchased at the Waste Resource Innovation Centre (110 Dunlop Drive) for $35.
VERMICOMPOSTING is an option if outdoor space
Father’s Day First day of summer
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WHAT’S HAPPENING?
is limited. It involves the use of worms, which recycle food waste into rich, dark, nutrient rich soil. For more information on home composting visit guelph.ca > quick link 'composting.'
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Going carbon neutral! In 2007, school bus driver, Darryl Nichol, along with students from the Upper Grand District School Board’s Community Environmental Leadership Program (CELP), planted 2,000 trees to offset the carbon dioxide emissions from their daily bus ride to school. Trees were provided by the County of Wellington’s Green Legacy Tree Nursery.
» » » » »
Outdoor watering restrictions are in effect Healthy Landscapes gardening workshops Commuter Challenge (May 31–June 6) Free transit on Clean Air Day (June 3) Fresh, local strawberries, broccoli and cherries are arriving at the Guelph Farmers’ Market
Property tax instalment due
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
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WHAT’S HAPPENING?
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Canada Day
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SUMMER HAS ARRIVED, bringing warm temperatures and outdoor water use along with it. During the summer, water use increases by approximately 30% due to seasonal watering activities. This increased water use not only impacts our water resources, but also increases the energy required to treat and distribute the water. Did you know that each cubic metre – or 1,000 litres – of water pumped requires approximately one kilowatt-hour of energy to treat and carry the water to the end user? Summer – with its peak energy demands – is a good time to look for ways to reduce your water and energy use. SUMMER WATER SAVINGS
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» Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater. » Use a rain gauge to determine how much rain has fallen – one inch (2.5 cm) of water is all your lawn needs each week. » Follow the Outside Water Use Program guidelines for outdoor watering activities. Visit guelph.ca/waterworks or watch for outdoor signs around the city to determine the current program level. » For more water saving tips visit guelph.ca/waterconservation.
SUMMER ENERGY SAVINGS » Use ceiling fans to supplement, or instead of, air conditioning. » Close blinds, shades and drapes during the hottest part of the day. » Raise the temperature on your thermostat. Each degree you go below 26°C significantly increases your electricity use.* » Turn off unnecessary lights – they produce heat and make your air conditioner work harder. » For more energy saving tips visit guelph.ca/energy. * Environment Canada
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Guelph residents show commitment to water and energy conservation. In 2007, Guelph Environmental Leadership (GEL) distributed Green Impact Guelph (GIG) Conservation Kits to 16,000 Guelph households. By installing a few simple products, residents have been able to cut water and energy consumption without drastically changing daily usage.
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HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED how far your food travels from where it’s produced to your table? One study estimates that a basic North American meal travels 2,400 km from field to table – roughly the driving distance from Regina to Toronto!
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Goods Exchange Weekend (July 31-August 3) Outdoor watering restrictions are in effect Healthy Landscapes gardening workshops Pick up your Guelph Community Guide and register for seasonal recreation programs » Fresh, local corn, blueberries and watermelon are arriving at the Guelph Farmers’ Market
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John Galt Day Guelph Eco Days
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THE GUELPH FARMERS’ MARKET has been a focal point of our downtown for over 180 years and features local fruit and vegetables, quality meats, cheese, baked goods, and arts & crafts.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING?
BENEFITS OF EATING LOCALLY PRODUCED FOOD » Freshness and taste – Local produce tends to be fresher and contains higher levels of vitamins than imported varieties. Locally raised animal products are noticeably more flavourful, and retain a higher proportion of their nutritional value than imported foods. » Builds community – Communities come together to support locally produced food and the people who produce it. » Reduces wasteful packaging – Locally produced foods require much less packaging than foods shipped long distances. » Reduces air pollution – A tremendous amount of fossil fuel is used to transport foods long distances, contributing to the release of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere.
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Strength and beauty in Riverside Park
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For more information visit guelph.ca/farmersmarket.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Membership has tasty privileges. Once a week, members of the Ignatius Farm Community Shared Agriculture pick up a box of fresh, tasty, organically-grown fruits and vegetables – right off the farm. The food is grown without adding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and the farm uses about 30% less energy than others in the area.
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
Speed River by Anna Swisterski AUGUST
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september THE CITY OF GUELPH Walk to School Pilot Project works with Active and Safe Routes to School (ASRTS) and four elementary schools to encourage students to walk more often – boosting physical activity while reducing carbon footprints. DID YOU KNOW?
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» Walking 15 minutes to school and back can reduce the risk of childhood obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and some cancers by 50%.* » Daily activity helps children stay attentive and productive at school. » in motion is an organization that supports physical activity initiatives, including walking and biking to school. Be 'in motion' and walk your child to school on International Walk to School Day on October 8!
PACK A HEALTHY, LITTERLESS LUNCH
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Property tax instalment due
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
» » » » »
Goods Exchange Weekend (September 4-7) Outdoor watering restrictions are in effect Fall Watermain Cleaning Program Healthy Landscapes gardening workshops Fresh, local squash, apples and pumpkins are arriving at the Guelph Farmers’ Market
» An average school-age child packing a disposable lunch generates 30 kilograms of waste per school year!** » Invest in reusable containers. Avoid plastic wraps, plastic bags, wax paper, and aluminum foil. » Use a travel mug or stainless steel water bottle for beverages on the go. » Buy food in bulk – avoid pre-packaged snack foods. » Pack a cloth napkin, stainless steel utensils, and a reusable drink container instead of disposables. » Pack whole fruits like oranges, apples or bananas; not only are they tasty and healthy but they come in convenient edible or biodegradable packaging! » Do your part to reduce waste – start a litterless lunch campaign at your school or office. * Public Health Agency of Canada ** Recycling Council of Ontario
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
It’s cool to walk to school! The Active and Safe Routes to School Committee has started several ‘Walking School Busses’ in local elementary schools. The initiative brings together students who may otherwise be driven to school and has them walk together as a group. Walking School Buses help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution near schools, and encourage healthy and active living.
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IN 2007, Guelph Waterworks pumped and treated a total of 18.6 million cubic metres – equal to 18.6 billion litres – of water. In Guelph, residential water use accounts for almost 60% of total water use.
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» Fall Watermain Cleaning Program » Goods Exchange Weekend (October 9-12) » Fire Hydrant Inspection Program
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
HOW MUCH WATER DOES YOUR HOME USE? Conduct a home water audit to identify water saving opportunities that can lead to huge savings on your water bill. » Locate and familiarize yourself with your water meter – it will help you monitor your water use and help you detect leaks. Your water meter is installed on your incoming water service and is usually located in the basement. » Your meter is read by recording the numbers from the left to the right. In Guelph our water meters read in cubic metres – one cubic metre is equal to 1,000 litres. » To calculate how much water different activities use, check the reading on your meter before and after a particular activity (eg. flushing the toilet, running the dishwasher, etc.). » Fill out a water use log to figure out how much water you and your family are using. The average Guelph resident uses approximately 230 litres of water each day.
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Wellington Road sunrise by Robin Bergart
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Thanksgiving Guelph Eco Days
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FIX THE DRIPS Did you know that a leaky faucet dripping 30 drops per minute uses 204 litres of water per month? The leak detector on the register of your water meter is a useful problem solving tool if you suspect you have a leak in your home. Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances and check the red dial. It should not be turning. The slightest movement means water is being registered by the meter and you have a leak in your home.
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Customers are encouraged to periodically compare the readings on the inside water meter and the outside remote readout. Please contact Waterworks at 519-837-5627 if there is a discrepancy. Halloween
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Water Conservation 101. In 2007, the University of Guelph completed over $350,000 worth of water efficiency retrofits in seven high-volume campus buildings and community centres. Upgrades included toilet flush valve retrofits, installation of low-flow toilets, and faucet aerators in washroom and kitchen facilities. These water efficient retrofits will reduce the University’s water consumption by over 100,000 cubic metres each year.
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Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
Thistle by Amanda Inglis OCTOBER S M T W T 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29
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AS THE DAYS GROW SHORTER and the temperature starts to drop, indoor thermostat settings and energy use begin to rise. According to Natural Resources Canada, heating accounts for nearly 60% of the energy used in the home. You can save energy and money by following some simple tips to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
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WINTER ENERGY SAVING CHECKLIST
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Turn off electronics at a power bar to eliminate 'phantom loads'. Unplug old, unused fridges and freezers. Insulate your hot water pipes. Adjust your ceiling fans to spin clockwise – directing warm air downward. Replace dirty furnace filters. Program your thermostat to winter settings (20°C/68°F). Check and repair caulking around windows and doors. Open your blinds, curtains and shutters on sunny days to take advantage of the sun’s warmth. Cover your windows at night to keep heat inside the house.
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Week A
Week B
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
» Fire Hydrant Inspection Program » Fall Yard Waste Collection » Loose Leaf Collection
By completing the energy-saving upgrades identified by your audit, you may qualify for rebates under the Government of Ontario’s Home Energy Retrofit Program and the Government of Canada’s ecoENERGY Retrofit Program. Visit www.homeenergyontario.ca and www.ecoaction.gc.ca for more information about each grant program. The average grant is expected to be more than $1,000 and will yield an average 25% reduction in energy use and costs.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Using clean energy in our community. There are over 160 households in Guelph using green electricity to power their homes. These homeowners are doing their part to reduce their personal emissions footprint and support the advancement of clean, renewable power generation in Ontario.
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with all the it's easy to forget aboutabout the amount and with allexcitement the excitement it's easy to forget the of waste during the holiday season.that It's Ontarians estimated that amountcreated of waste created. It's estimated Ontarians aboutadditional 900,000 additional tonesduring of trash toss abouttoss 900,000 tonnes of trash during the holiday the holiday season.*season.* Give a gift to the environment this holiday season by following these easyeasy andand festive tipstips to help reduce the by following these festive to help reduce amount of trash produced andand helphelp makemake it a it a the amount of trash produced ‘green 'green Christmas. Christmas'’.
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BYOB Bring Your Own Bag when you go shopping to avoid plastic bags. If you have to take a plastic bag with your purchase, reuse it.
WRAPPING ALTERNATIVES Use last year’s wrapping paper or gift bags to wrap gifts this year. Foam and packaging from gifts can be reused for shipping or mailing and old holiday cards make great gift tags. Get creative – try wrapping gifts in another gift, like clothing, towels, or a tool box.
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GREEN GIFTS GREEN GIFTS Give Give the the gift gift of of green green this this year. year. Gift Gift certificates, certificates, concert concert tickets, tickets, and and donations donations to to charities charities are are aa few few green green gift gift ideas. ideas. Locally Locally produced produced products products also also make make great great green green gifts. gifts. Check Check out out the the Guelph Guelph Famers’ Famers’ Market for for gift gift ideas ideas from from local local artisans. artisans. Market
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Ontario Ministry Ministry of of the the Environment Environment ** Ontario
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
University’s recycling efforts score an ‘A’ on the 2009 College Sustainability Report Card from the Sustainable Endowments Institute (Food & Recycling category). To reach its waste diversion target of 60% by 2010 the University of Guelph has recycling containers and backyard composters available across campus, and special recycling programs for electronic waste, light bulbs, and batteries.
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
Boxing Day
» Keep fire hydrants clear of snow » Put your waste bags and containers at the end of your driveway or in a spot shovelled from the snowbank
Week A
Week B
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with purple on map (see pull-out section)
Indicates Waste bag collection week for communities highlighted with yellow on map (see pull-out section)
Conservation Calendar
Who
to call at City Hall
SERVICE/FACILITY
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SERVICE/FACILITY
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City Hall Mayor’s Office City Administrator’s Office Building Centennial Pool Clerk’s Office Community Design and Development Services Community Services Court Services (Provincial Offences Court) Economic Development Emergency Services – Fire/Ambulance Engineering Evergreen Seniors Centre Finance Taxation
519-822-1260 519-837-5643 519-837-5602 519-837-5615 519-837-5620 519-837-5603 519-837-5616
519-822-4900 519-837-5601 519-837-5637 519-824-6220 519-837-5628
Guelph Museums McCrae House Civic Museum
519-836-1482
Sleeman Centre Human Resources Legal Services Library (Main Branch) Operations Parks Maintenance Traffic Parking Police Services River Run Centre (Box Office) River Run Centre (Administration) Tourism Transit Victoria Road Recreation Centre Waste Resource Innovation Centre Wastewater Treatment Plant Waterworks West End Community Centre
519-837-5618 519-826-0762 519-837-5600 519-824-6590 519-837-5604 519-823-1291 519-837-5610
519-837-5612 519-824-1212 519-763-3000 519-837-5662 1-800-334-4519 519-822-1811 519-837-5621 519-767-0598 519-837-5629 519-837-5627 519-837-5657