Toronto Celebrates All Things Green at the Live Green Toronto Festival July 25-26 2009

The annual Live Green Toronto Festival, in support of Live Green Toronto, a 5 year initiative to promote and support neighbourhood-based actions to green Toronto, will take over Yonge-Dundas Square for the weekend of July 25-26 2009.

Live Green Toronto is a municipally run website that Mayor David Miller hopes will be a one-stop-shop for information on how to live green at home, at work, and on the go. The initiative was motivated by Toronto's goal to reduce carbon emissions 50% by 2050. An aggressive goal that will involve action from residents and and the city alike.

In an attempt to bring responsibility to the individuals of Toronto, Miller asks that we all do our part in reducing our carbon footprint. Live Green Toronto promotes programs such as Can-Bike, a course in bike safety, Toronto Walking Strategy, which aims to build a physical and cultural environment that encourages and supports walking, as well as grants and funding information for green-living enthusiasts. The website will also direct any interested parties to pages outlining the city's work towards a greener future, including, but not limited to green building projects, an energy retrofit program, and deep lake water cooling.

The event is free and open to people from all walks of life. On Saturday July 25 Live Green Toronto Festival will be host to over 100 exhibitors, food stands, and live musicians with closure on Yonge between Dundas and Queen. Sunday July 26 is family day at Yonge-Dundas Square with kid friendly activities and hands-on fun for the whole family.

By Kendel Doyle