CCRI Celebrates Local Champions

The Cornwall Carbon Reduction Initiative (CCRI) recognized two local champions combating climate change at their annual general meeting on March 26, 2009.

Receiving the CCRI's first residential recognition certificate, Renaud Grenier is a Cornwall resident who lives almost entirely off the electrical grid. Almost 90% of the electricity used in his home is produced by the solar panels and 1 kilowatt wind turbine on his property, and 100% of his household's hot water needs are met through a solar water heater. His garden is kept healthy by the compost he produces in his back yard.

The CCRI also presented its first institutional recognition certificate to Blayne Mackey for his work in making St. Lawrence College more energy efficient. So far, the Cornwall Campus has reduced its electricity consumption by about 15% and natural gas consumption by about 19%. Mackey's efforts have ultimately reduced the Cornwall Campus's carbon footprint by 90.2 tonnes since 2006.

"We're very happy to celebrate the outstanding work being done by local residents, businesses, and institutions," said CCRI Chair Naresh Bhargava. "The efforts of Mr. Grenier and Mr. Mackey have set them apart from the crowd. They are truly community leaders in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting sustainable practices."

CCRI Chair Naresh Bhargava (left) congratulates Campus Dean Don Fairweather and Environmental Technician Program Coordinator Donna Orwell in front of the thermal solar panels at the Cornwall Campus.

CCRI Director Patrick Finucan presents a certificate of recognition to Blayne Mackey of St. Lawrence College with CCRI Chair Naresh Bhargava at the annual general meeting.

CCRI Chair Naresh Bhargava (left) congratulates Renaud Grenier in front of the solar panels and wind turbine at his home.

Renaud Grenier receives a certificate of recognition from CCRI Chair Naresh Bhargava and CCRI Director Dr. Jeff Ridal at the annual general meeting.