For Immediate Release
May 2, 2008

CUT EMISSIONS WHEN YOU CUT YOUR GRASS

McGuinty Government Investing In Clean Lawnmower

NEWS

Support from the Ontario government will help develop the next generation of an innovative lawnmower in Guelph, Ontario. The cordless electric mower works as effectively as a traditional gas model – but without the air polluting emissions.

Linamar Corporation, an auto parts manufacturer, launched its new cordless lawnmower this spring. The lawnmower lasts up to an hour on a single charge – more than 10 times longer than the average cordless electric lawnmower. The technology can also be used in snow-blowers and other gas-powered small equipment.

Ontario’s $1.8 million investment comes from the Innovation Demonstration Fund, which supports promising environmental and alternative energy technologies.

Innovation is one of the government’s five key economic priorities. The others are:

• Investing in education and skills training
• Keeping taxes competitive
• Investing in infrastructure and
• Supporting economic development by forming key partnerships with the private sector.

QUOTES

"The demand for clean technologies is growing globally. Our investment will help bring an innovative Ontario product to markets around the world.”— John Wilkinson, Minister of Research and Innovation

"This project shows how innovation can lead to a greener Ontario.  I am proud that this innovative lawnmower is being produced right here in Guelph." — Liz Sandals, MPP Guelph

"We're thrilled with the support we have received from the Ontario government as well as the enthusiasm we're seeing in the market for our 'green' lawnmowers.  We are great believers in tapping into the exciting market of 'green technologies' consumers are looking for, and because we offer the option of using a solar charger for the battery, Ontarians can take green to a whole new level." — Linda Hasenfratz, CEO of Linamar Corporation.

QUICK FACTS

• According to Statistics Canada, gas-powered lawn equipment releases about 80,000 tonnes of emissions in Canada every year, using 151 million litres of gas.  

LEARN MORE

Ontario’s Next Generation of Jobs Fund supports clean technologies

Clean Air Foundation’s Mow Down Pollution Program

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See also:

• Backgrounder: Making Ontario Greener One Innovation At A Time