Starting this year, drivers will see something a little different when they pump gas in North Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s the first North American city to require warning labels on area gas pumps to remind drivers that burning gasoline causes climate change.

Mussatto: “I think the issue of our generation is how we deal with climate change and how do we adapt to changing climates.”

That’s Mayor Darrell Mussatto. He says the city is paying for the labels, which will include helpful tips for reducing a driver’s climate impact.

Mussatto: “By saying things like ensure that your tires are inflated to the proper pressure so that you get the most efficiency. Or a message that says driving with a roof rack on your car when it’s not needed is harmful to your gas mileage.”

He hopes the proactive tone of the campaign will resonate with drivers.

Mussatto: “I’m hoping it gets people to use a little less fuel for their vehicle, maybe think about using alternative fuels with electric cars and such, and gradually make that shift over to a more sustainable transportation lifestyle.”

The U.S. cities of San Francisco and Berkeley are also considering warning labels, and Mussatto says other cities are watching the initiative since it could be a very cost-effective way to help fight climate change.

Reporting credit: Colleen Pellissier/ChavoBart Digital Media.

Photo: One of the proposed gas pump labels (source: Our Horizon).

More Resources

Climate warning labels are coming to gas pumps in one Canadian city

Climate-change warnings for gas pumps are coming to Canada

Climate change stickers mandatory on North Vancouver gas pumps

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Information Labels for Gas Pumps (begins on page 169)