Major changes could be in store for Torontonians if Mayor David Miller proceeds with a plan unveiled Friday to tackle climate change.

The city's 30-page report sets a target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by six per cent in five years, in line with the Kyoto Protocol, and by a whopping 80 per cent by 2050.

Miller said the targets are realistic and in line with those set by the European Union.

Greenhouse gas reduction target, based on 1990 levels
6 per cent by 2012
30 per cent by 2020
80 per cent by 2050

Suggested measures include an aggressive push for homes and condominiums to be retrofitted to make them more energy efficient, making green building standards mandatory and converting the city fleets to biodiesel.

As for residents, Miller said the city will be asking them to make lifestyle changes such as not using incandescent light bulbs, getting rid of gas-powered leaf blowers and lawn mowers and buying food locally.

"We are going to provide the information to allow them to do it, because it's simple," said Miller.

Environmentalists applauded Toronto's plan, saying cities and countries have no choice but to begin implementing climate change programs.

Meanwhile, critics of the mayor wondered how the city will fund this ambitious, long-term plan.