The two Winnipeg projects receiving funding include:

Indoor Pools/Recreational Complex Energy Reduction Feasibility Study

This study is part of a major plan to achieve a long-term reduction in energy and water consumption in Winnipeg's municipal facilities. The study will investigate innovative methods to reduce energy and water consumption through technical and operating modifications at 12 indoor municipal swimming pools/recreational complexes. FCM is providing $44,500 in GMEF funds for the project.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Odour Control and Electrical Power Generation Study 

This study will undertake additional assessment and pilot testing work to assist in the treatment of odour emissions from the City's North End Wastewater Treatment Plant. Recent innovative and promising developments in the use of micro-turbine equipment may allow odours to be controlled at lower operating costs. Methane, which itself is a source of odour at the plant but currently utilized to heat some of the wastewater treatment facilities, will be tested as an alternative fuel to natural gas. The City will also investigate the use of low-energy gases from landfill sites, based on the experience of Natural Resources Canada's CANMET Energy Technology Centre. In addition to odour control, the micro-turbine can generate electrical power to augment power supplies to the treatment plant. FCM is providing $100,000 in GMEF funds for the project.

"These two programs reinforce our commitment toward making Winnipeg the greenest and most environmentally friendly city in Canada," said Mayor Glen Murray. "We are taking innovative steps on many fronts to reduce green house gases and to maintain a healthy air quality in our city."

"Both the Wastewater Treatment Plant Odour Control project and the Indoor Pools energy savings initiative demonstrate our commitment to green decision making actions, which are environmentally responsible and economically beneficial." 

Murray added, "We thank the Federation for their generous support. Through these kinds of projects the City of Winnipeg has an opportunity to lead by way of example and by doing."

"Our goal through these Green Municipal Enabling Funds is to help Canadians push the frontiers of environmental technology and eco-efficient practices," said Ron Duhamel, Veterans Affairs Minister and Senior Minister for Manitoba. "These two feasibility studies will help us accomplish our environmental goals towards creating a greener city."

"The Government of Canada's investment in innovative environmental projects through the FCM's Green Municipal Funds is also in step with our strategy under the Canada-Manitoba Infrastructure Program to protect and enhance the quality of our environment through green infrastructure projects, such as water and wastewater systems and improving the energy efficiency of buildings and facilities owned by local governments."

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities, which manages the Green Municipal Funds, has been recognized since 1901 as the national voice of municipal government. FCM is dedicated to improving the quality of life in all Canadian communities by promoting strong, effective and accountable municipal government. 

The Federation received $125 million in funding from the Government of Canada in April 2000. The funds stimulate investment in innovative municipal infrastructure projects to improve the environmental performance of Canadian municipalities in areas such as air, water or soil quality, climate protection and the use of renewable resources.