Are Canadians Energy Illiterate?

I was taught to turn off a light when I leave a room and to lower the thermostat to save on heating bills. But what else do I know about energy efficiency? Probably as much as you do - not that much.

In a recent survey commissioned by Pollution Probe, less than 40 per cent of Canadians could correctly answer survey questions about energy use and efficiency. Are Canadians energy illiterate?

Pollution Probe has just released the Primer on Energy Systems in Canada, an educational resource for Canadian consumers. This primer aims to provide an energy ABCs, so consumers can understand the changing needs for energy and how individuals, business and government can work together to protect the environment and become more energy literate.According to Pollution Probe, one of the major challenges facing Canadians is the lack of information to be able to understand what's happening with energy systems, such as needed upgrades and replacements by municipal, provincial and Federal governments. Whether its Alberta's oil, Quebec's hydroelectricity or Ontario's nuclear power, Canadians should know how energy use and management is affecting us now and in the future.

To date, Pollution Probe has published over 10 primers, including guides on acid rain, climate change, water protection and automobile efficiency and emissions.

In the Primer on Energy Systems, are detailed descriptions of what is being done by government, business and individuals and what each group can do to make a difference with energy efficiency. The primer is reviewed by scientists, non-governmental associations, industry experts and policy makers prior to publication to provide a well-rounded view of Canada's energy industry.

According to Pollution Probe, sharing up to date information will put individuals in a better position to be informed and make a difference when it comes to influencing potential energy policy.

In the survey, 4000 Canadians were polled about their knowledge about energy, with over 47 per cent of respondents agreeng that the Federal Government should be currently developing a national energy policy.

Pollution Probe's Primer aims to help Canadians figure out their energy impact by describing Canada's major energy resources and commodities, outlining major energy services and how they're provided to consumers and detailing the benefits and problems of energy use. The Primer can be downloaded for for free from Pollution Probe.