In our weekly environmental newsletter, we shed light on eco-friendly trends and solutions driving us towards a more sustainable future. I’m Nicole Mortillaro, and after my recent article on considerations for buying a used electric vehicle (EV), I now share my firsthand experience as a proud EV owner.
During my research, the Nissan Leaf stood out to me as the ideal choice. One crucial aspect emphasized by experts was obtaining a Battery State of Health (SOH) report to assess the battery’s remaining capacity. Surprisingly, none of the four used car dealerships I visited were familiar with this report, highlighting the importance of buyer awareness.
Following a reader’s advice, I tried using an OBD2 sensor for insights but faced compatibility issues with the Leaf model I was eyeing. Despite the initial setback, a later attempt with a different sensor and the LeafSpy Pro app revealed a satisfactory battery health reading of 87.96%.
Cara Clairman from Plug’n Drive noted that the longevity of EV batteries is surpassing expectations, making the purchase less of a gamble. She stressed the need for better education among dealerships regarding battery SOH. Additionally, a Carfax report on my vehicle indicated a battery replacement, although details on the type of battery weren’t clear.
Addressing concerns about charging infrastructure, I found ample public charging stations in Toronto, like the Flo street charger near my home. Range anxiety initially plagued my EV experience, but over time, I’ve grown more comfortable with it, a common adjustment according to Clairman.
Former Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault’s eye-opening visit to the retreating Greenland glacier underscores the urgency of climate action. As he resigns over policy disagreements, his Arctic expedition with young climate advocates underscores the generational responsibility in combating climate change.
Debates on relocating problem bears gain attention following a bear encounter in a park, reflecting the ongoing challenge of human-wildlife coexistence. Research indicates age-specific success rates in bear relocations, highlighting the complexity of wildlife management decisions.
If successful, Gladish’s proposal for a pilot project to relocate juvenile bears may offer a humane alternative to lethal interventions, potentially fostering better reporting practices and saving bear lives.
For insights, criticisms, or story tips, reach out to whatonearth@cbc.ca. Stay tuned for our weekly newsletter every Thursday.
Editor: Emily Chung | Logo design: Sködt McNalty