Idle in Invermere No More!
City Moves On Making Idling Vehicles History
Invermere, B.C. — The town of Invermere knows idling cars go nowhere. And they’ve moved towards being idle-free.
Last month, The District of Invermere (DOI) council has approved the initiation of an anti-idle bylaw as well as idle-free campaign throughout the town.
The DOI is now collaborating with Wildsight and local schools to deliver educational programs to the people of Invermere that detail the benefits of turning the car off.
“It’s our responsibility to do our part to protect the environment,” says Invermere Mayor Mark Shmigelsky, “for now and for the future.”
The week from April 21st to 25th will be Invermere’s first ‘Idle-Free Week.’ In addition, the streets and parking lots at Eileen Madson Primary will require vehicles to shut down when not moving from now on.
Invermere’s decision to go idle-free helps supports the provincial government’s pledge to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions 33% below current levels by 2020. According to the federal government’s EcoAction website, cars and light trucks produce 13% of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions.
Turning vehicles off while quickly running in the house or grabbing a cup of coffee has more advantages than one might think. Contrary to conventional knowledge, leaving your car running for more than 10 seconds uses more gas than restarting. As well, many toxins found in vehicle emissions have been linked to serious health problems.
“Making a difference is as easy as turning a key,” says Wildsight Program Facilitator Amanda Fedrigo. “It’s an easy way to curb toxic emissions, save money and prolong the life of your vehicle.”
Wildsight also gratefully recognizes Kicking Horse Coffee and EcoEnergy Canada for their generous support in this initiative. Keep an eye out for Idle-Free Invermere’s helpful brochure and catchy window decals!
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For more information, contact:
Amanda Fedrigo
Wildsight Program Facilitator, Climate Solutions - Invermere
(250) 342-2683
amanda@wildsight.ca
Chris Prosser
Chief Administrative Officer
(250) 342-9281
cao@invermere.net
