We are excited to announce the launch of DriveZero!
This Sustainable Waterloo Region (SWR) program and the work it does should sound familiar, as it is the next step for our ChargeWR program. The focus of this program was to increase the uptake and use of electric vehicles and related infrastructure through collaborative initiatives with community members, municipalities, electric vehicle (EV) associations and industry suppliers.
This work will continue in DriveZero, but with an eye to the future as technology changes and the zero-emission vehicle, industry expands. Sustainable transportation is one of the foundational aspects of SWR’s work, and the cornerstone of this is reducing single-vehicle commuting where possible. This is because how we move is an essential piece of Waterloo Region’s 30-year greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target of 80% by the year 2050.
How we plan to achieve this target is outlined in Waterloo Region’s long-term climate strategy and short-term plan, TransformWR. Created in consultation with our community, it provides a pathway to creating a low-carbon community that is equitable, prosperous, and resilient. To do this, essential transformative change is needed in how we think about commuting. This means that for any trips we take that cannot be done using active transportation, personal and commercial vehicles must become zero-emission vehicles (ZEV).
DriveZero will support this transformation by continuing to collaborate with stakeholders to remove barriers to ZEV adoption and help improve related infrastructure. In addition, by increasing education, providing support, and creating resources and learning opportunities, our work will support organizations and our community as a whole and make the transition needed to achieve an 80% GHG reduction by 2050.
Keep an eye out for upcoming ZEV test drive events and more information on owning and using an EV!
Want to learn more or get in touch?
Follow the #DriveZero hashtag on SWR’s social media channels.
Reach out to DriveZero at drivezero@sustainablewaterlooregion.ca
How else does SWR’s work support sustainable commuting?
TravelWise is a member-based program delivered through a partnership between the Region of Waterloo and Sustainable Waterloo Region, with the ultimate goal of reducing the number of cars on the road and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Benefits available to TravelWise members include corporate transit passes, access to employee engagement events and challenges, and reporting assistance, to name a few. So we are not only the providers of this program, but we are members too!
Impact Network is a program of Sustainable Waterloo Region (SWR) that facilitates setting voluntary reduction targets in greenhouse gas emissions (GHGS), waste, water, and waste diversion by organizations committed to sustainability within the Waterloo Region. Every organization’s sustainability journey is different; our milestones provide a customized approach to inspire action and support transformation in organizations of varying sizes and industries.