General
Isn’t the biggest responsibility for action with companies and governments?
Fixing our climate and ecological challenges is about societal change, not just individual action. Of course, we can’t just blame individuals and expect them to bear the burden. Because our dominant social structures are designed to support mass consumerism and other nature-destroying practices, corporations and governments bear the greatest responsibility.
Live Net Zero isn’t about simply changing light bulbs or more recycling. It’s about a culture shift – with widespread behaviour change at the personal, household and community levels helping to support changes in governance and corporate behaviour.
This includes changes in our diet, transportation choices, personal vacations, housing type, etc., as well as government and business support for things like home heating retrofits, household solar installations and electric vehicles.
Household Challenge
Is Live Net Zero just for families?
No – it’s for households! While many participants are families, anyone can join – whether you live alone, with roommates, as a couple or in a multi-generational household.
What if I rent?
There are plenty of renter-friendly actions you can take, from reducing energy use to changing how you shop, eat and move around throughout your day.
What if I can’t do everything?
You don’t have to. The Challenge helps you take action where it counts most and in ways that work for your life.
Is this just about individual action?
Lifestyle changes matter – but they’re not the whole story. We need systems change too. The more people act, the more businesses, governments and communities respond. It all works together. Learn more at Live Net Zero 101.
Does submitting more than one entry increase my chance of winning?
Share your journey in up to three different entries (100–500 words each) by February 28, 2027. These entries give you a chance to share your progress and are judged together as a single household submission (use the same email address). One entry is enough to win, but additional entries increase your chance to win prizes. What matters is quality, not quantity. (See How to Enter.)
What is the science behind the footprint quiz?
This quiz is grounded in comprehensive research on household ecological footprints across Canada. By analyzing national studies and data, we’ve developed a set of 20 questions that identify the key areas where Canadian households contribute most to greenhouse gas emissions. These areas typically include home energy use, transportation habits, food consumption, and material goods. Your responses help pinpoint which aspects of your household’s activities have the highest environmental impact. Based on this, the quiz suggests the most effective actions you can take to reduce your ecological footprint. This approach ensures that recommendations are tailored to your specific circumstances, making your efforts toward sustainability more impactful.
I entered last year – can I enter again?
Welcome back! Tell us what’s changed or what you’re taking on next.
Classroom Challenge
I’m an educator, but what if I’m not an expert in climate change?
You don’t need to be. The program is designed to support teachers with ready-made materials and step-by-step guidance. You’ll also be part of a supportive national educator network.
How long does the Challenge last?
Educators can enter one or both periods:
- Fall: Sept 15–Dec 1, 2026
- Spring: Jan 15–April 30, 2027
Completing the activities themselves are flexible – teachers can adapt the timing to fit the curriculum and their schedules. They can choose a single activity, or run a set of them over a semester.
Does it align with the curriculum?
Yes. The Challenge connects with learning goals across science, social studies, civics, geography, health and career education. It also supports competencies like critical thinking, collaboration and active citizenship.
Can home-schoolers, school clubs or small rural classrooms participate?
Yes. The Classroom Challenge is flexible and inclusive – perfect for home-school families, small multi-grade classrooms, school clubs and rural or remote schools. Activities can be scaled to fit your context, and many require little or no special equipment. Everyone’s participation is valued, and your unique perspectives help shape a more diverse and relatable movement for sustainable living. Note that classes or clubs must have 3 or more students to be eligible for prizes and an educator point-person.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. It’s completely free to join. Materials are bilingual and available in print or digital formats.
There are more FAQs on the Classroom Challenge portal.