Newmarket has allocated money to hire a helping green hand.

Last week, the town put aside about $30,000 to hire a consultant to help create and implement a lasting emission reduction strategy as part of the Partners for Climate Protection initiative.

Newmarket has been a participating member since 2001.

The initiative was created by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives as an avenue for municipalities to reduce greenhouse gas emission.

More than 157 municipalities, representing more than 60 per cent of Canadians, are part of the plan.

Municipalities commit to reduce corporate and community emissions by creating a greenhouse gas emissions inventory, setting targets for reduction and developing, implementing and monitoring an action plan.

Newmarket’s consultant will help create an emission reduction plan, Mayor Tony Bynen said.

“This is the next step,” Mr. Van Bynen said. “It will help create realistic targets for reduction.”

Despite a 9-per-cent increase in population since 2002, Newmarket has eliminated more than 1,200 tons of carbon dioxide through existing greenhouse gas reduction programs.

That includes energy audits, retrofits and decommissioning of municipal buildings, LED traffic lights and street light energy efficient programs by Newmarket Hydro.

Also, 10 per cent of the town’s vehicle fleet is hybrid or uses bio-diesl.    

Although, the town is a leader in environmental initiatives, hiring an expert is proactive, Councillor Joe Sponga said.

“We have a base understanding. This will give us a better understanding,” he said.

“We’re not just talking about it. It’s beyond ordinary.”

Council expects to develop an action plan and set targets within the next six months, Mr. Van Bynen said.

“No doubt we’re on track,” he said. “But we could always improve.”

Amanda Persico is a journalism co-op student from Centennial College