The purpose of the Net-Zero Transformation Playbook is to guide Saskatoon towards net-zero carbon pollution by 2050. The Playbook is categorized into seven net-zero transformation goals to first reduce and, once all other measures have been implemented, remove carbon.
Homes, buildings, and industrial processes use natural gas for heating and electricity to power appliances, lights, and other systems, making up the largest source (61%) of carbon pollution in Saskatoon.
Carbon pollution results when the energy used to power our homes, businesses, and vehicles is generated from fossil fuels. This pollution makes up 35% of total GHG emissions in Saskatoon. To meet our climate goals, we need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to power Saskatoon's electrical grid.
Transportation-related emissions make up 34% of carbon pollution in Saskatoon. Switching to sustainable transportation options reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Sustainable transportation includes public transit, active transport, and electric vehicles.
Waste that decomposes in landfills produces methane, a GHG that is more potent than carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This process takes many years, which means the waste in our landfill today will produce methane over many decades. Landfill emissions make up 5% of carbon pollution in Saskatoon.
Water treatment and distribution require energy that results in carbon pollution. Decreasing the use of treated water indoors and outdoors reduces the overall demand on our water system, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced carbon pollution.
Carbon is absorbed and stored in soils, roots, wetlands, grasslands, trees, and other plants. The process of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is called sequestration and the total amount of carbon that has been absorbed by a carbon sink is called carbon storage.
It won’t be possible to eliminate all sources of carbon pollution. Residual emissions refer to the carbon pollution that remains after all feasible reduction measures have been implemented. Carbon removal approaches can be considered to address anticipated residual carbon to reach net-zero.