Winnipeg, Manitoba – New initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Manitoba are part of the recommendations outlined in a report by the province’s Vehicle Standards Advisory Board.

The board was formed as a condition under the Climate Change and Emissions Reduction Act, which supports Beyond Kyoto, Manitoba’s action plan on climate change. The plan includes 60 specific actions to reduce GHGs.

“Our province has been a leader in taking action on climate change and today we continue to build on that,” said Jim Rondeau, Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mines. “The board has given us clear direction to implement additional measures that will help reduce vehicle emissions across the province.”

Rondeau noted that the province will immediately implement an aggressive action plan based on the board’s findings, including:

- Implementing aggressive vehicle emission reduction targets. The implementation plan includes introducing the California Air Resources Board model for emissions reductions, pending approval in the U.S., and economic analysis on the effect on retailers in Manitoba.

- Promoting increased fuel efficiency on Manitoba roads. The current hybrid rebate program will be replaced with new incentives to get older cars off the road.

- Introducing Green Driving, a new public education campaign that promotes vehicle maintenance and driving habits, including tips on anti-idling and carpool promotion.

- Providing support for transit, including investments in a new rapid transit corridor for the city of Winnipeg, and a 50/50 share of the cost of operation of transit.

The full report can be viewed online at ManitobaGovernment.

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