Awareness Campaign to Educate on Keeping Doors and Windows Closed While Using AC

Published on: 2022/07/23 - in Releases

RELEASE — When one door closes, a window of opportunity opens. Acting on Council direction, the City of Kingston will launch an education and awareness campaign to highlight the benefits of keeping doors and windows closed when air conditioning (AC) units are in operation.

“The City is highly supportive of our small business community. We are here to assist them in welcoming their clients, advancing their climate action efforts, and promoting awareness of their good work,” says Julie Salter-Keane, Manager of the Climate Leadership Division.

To achieve this triple-pronged goal, the City will be inviting businesses to pledge to keep their doors closed when AC units are in use. Businesses who take this pledge will be recognized and will also receive a special decal to place at their storefront, which welcomes clients and informs them about how they’re taking climate action.

While this initiative will benefit the environment, there are many local businesses already taking climate action.

“Many business owners have taken steps to reduce their environmental footprint by joining programs such as Sustainably.eco, installing energy-efficient lighting, undertaking energy audits, and implementing the actions in the Climate Leadership Plan,” says Salter-Keane.

Community members: take climate action!
While the focus of the awareness campaign is on business, Salter-Keane notes that avoiding energy waste is something every Kingstonian should have on their mind.

“Reducing energy use is not just good for our environment, it’s good for your bank account. Small ways you can think about scaling back your energy use might include only running washing machines and dishwashers when they’re full, air drying clothes, and of course, keeping your doors closed when your air conditioning is on.”

To learn more about the City’s commitment to climate action, and its roadmap to carbon neutrality, read out Climate Leadership Plan.


Photo: Roger Thompson (cc)
Release: City of Kingston