The accumulation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the atmosphere is causing a "greenhouse effect" on the earth's climate. This is evident in increasing average air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice, and rising average sea levels.

What many of us don't realize is that our homes are a contributor to GHG emissions. The housing sector in Canada provides significant potential for the reduction of the country's ecological footprint.

Today, 17 per cent of all energy used in Canada goes towards running our homes, generating 14 per cent of the country's GHG emissions. This makes your home a great place to start reducing your energy footprint.

Since most of the energy we consume comes from fossil fuels, the energy we can save heating and cooling our homes will help decrease our impact on the environment.