Tens of thousands of Mississauga businesses shown how to better combat climate change
Published May 29, 2023 at 12:59 pm
Mississauga officials are launching an ambitious program later this week to potentially help tens of thousands of businesses across the city do a better job fighting the effects of climate change.
In partnership with the Mississauga Board of Trade and Partners in Project Green (Toronto and Region Conservation Authority), the City of Mississauga is launching the Mississauga Climate Leaders Program (MCLP) with a half-day introductory gathering/launch event for business leaders on Thursday morning (June 1) at City Hall.
A City spokesperson said in a news release that the program will help local businesses reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save energy, lower costs and advance corporate sustainability goals.
“The program offers specialized supports and training events to help develop, advance and promote climate actions for businesses,” the spokesperson said.
Mayor Bonnie Crombie said whether you’re new to Mississauga, have lived your entire life in Canada’s seventh-largest city or are a business in town, climate change affects everyone.
“We’ve already begun to see the effects of these changes – changing weather patterns, food supply issues, deteriorating air and water quality, and property damage from intense storms and flooding,” Crombie said in a statement. “Over the next 25 years, we aim to become a net-zero city. We’re working hard at the municipal level to prevent climate change by transforming our vehicle fleet, making our buildings more energy efficient, using renewable energy and limiting waste. These actions are not enough on their own. We won’t reach our climate targets without ambitious leadership from within our business community. Together we can achieve our common vision of a prosperous and sustainable community.”
Videos
The City has been working to tackle climate change through its first comprehensive Climate Change Action Plan. The 10-year plan outlines actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make Mississauga more resilient to climate change, with the ultimate goal of reaching net zero.
At Thursday’s kickoff event, which runs from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. (registration 8:30 to 9 a.m.), those who attend can meet and engage with consultants delivering City programs, hear from business leaders tackling climate change and network with funding and resource organizations.
In addition to the mayor, various Mississauga business leaders will be in attendance including those from Mother Parkers, Purolator, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Enbridge Inc.
“Sustainability and climate action are fast becoming key market differentiators and drivers of economic competitiveness within our business community,” said Christina Kakaflikas, director of the City’s Economic Development Office. “At the same time, many businesses want to take action, but don’t know how or where to start. The Mississauga Climate Leaders Program will support businesses in achieving their sustainability goals and position Mississauga as a leader in sustainable business growth.”
insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising