Get me every issue Become a member! InsiderVolume 32, Number 1 • January–March 2017 Finding Balance Through Retreat: Wintergreen to carry out strategic plan- by Rena Upitis ning. The simple yet comfort- able accommodations include i n t e r g r e e n private rooms, shared rooms, Studios is a year- woodland cabins, and tent spac- round wilderness es for those who prefer to sleep retreat centre. under the stars. WThe built facilities are nestled Guests can explore more than within more than 200 acres of a dozen trails through the proper- forests, marshes, and meadows ty, including guided hikes. There in the heart of the Frontenac are mixed forests and meadows, Arch Biosphere Reserve. ponds and marshes, spectacular This reserve is one of a glob- granite outcroppings, and a gla- al network of UNESCO desig- cier-carved lake. nated reserves, unique natural The hosts serve bountiful regions populated with people meals, featuring local and organ- committed to sustainable com- ic ingredients, much of which is munity living and development. grown in gardens on site. There Located in the Township of are always vegetarian, gluten- South Frontenac, Wintergreen free, and vegan options, and is near the town of Westport, Wintergreen serves responsibly Ontario. sourced fish, and local poultry, Workshops in the arts, educa- pork, goat, and beef. tion, and environmental studies Wintergreen is a not-for- are held in an inviting solar- profit charitable organization, powered lodge. The building incorporated in 2007. The straw- serves both as a demonstration bale lodge was built in 2008 site and a research site for off- and workshops began that fall. grid living on the land that is Wintergreen inspired the devel- part of the ancient granite spine opment of a community-based Working on the green roof at Wintergreen. Photo: Rena Upitis. of North America. renewable energy organization, We also provide retreat and the Wintergreen Renewable Wintergreen is also home Program, begin with a delicious Press is an independent literary meeting facilities for individu- Energy Co-operative, established to Wintergreen Studios Press, dinner, usually attended by peo- press. Like other independent als and groups, such as fami- in 2012. Learn more about the an independent literary press ple within a 20-minute drive of literary presses, Wintergreen lies taking a wilderness week- community-based energy initia- publishing works related to cul- Wintergreen. The meal is served Studios Press is mission-driven, end retreat or corporate groups tives of the Co-op at www.win- ture, education, and the environ- buffet-style and guests mingle not market-driven. seeking an inspiring location tergreencoop.com. ment. with people they have just met The motive to publish is In 2017, as Canada turns 150, or have known for decades. to bring outstanding works by Wintergreen turns 10! A series of The meal is followed by emerging and published writers celebrations are planned around world-class entertainment, all of to the widest possible audience. Inside: the four seasons, with anchor which takes place in the warmth We publish books that stimu- themes for each season, culmi- of the Wintergreen lodge. Past late interest in the arts, history, nating with a Winter Solstice artists and entertainers have a culture, and the environment. A event in December, 2017. wide array of talented groups and book of poetry by Gail Sidonie Celebrating The themes for special individuals. Many musicians are Sobat titled How the Light is events in 2017 include: Stories Juno Award winners. The writ- Spent recently won a national that Sustain (February 3 to 5), ers and poets have international award, the Whistler Independent Land Art (May 14 to June 4), reach: Lawrence Hill’s books Book Award — a testament both Sustainability Healing Earth (August 17 to 20) have been published in multiple the Gail’s work and to the qual- • Sustainable Enterprise Alliance and The Path Ahead (October languages; Lorna Crozier has ity of the Press. 13 to 15). been invited to read on every We hope to welcome many • Making Ottawa a Green City Courses and workshops are continent (except Antarctica!); new people to Wintergreen in on offer (see list on our website) while Patrick Lane, along with 2017. We’re aiming for 10,000 • Sustainability Showcase in a wide variety of art forms Lorna Crozier, recently received new participants over the next encompassing the performing an honorary doctorate from five years. So come. Be inspired • Wheels for Refugees arts (e.g. singing), the fine arts McGill, and Helen Humphreys and nourished. Take small steps (e.g., painting), the domestic and Steven Heighton have both and make the world a better • Eco-Volunteering arts (e.g., soap making), and the won major national literary priz- place. Visit www.wintergreen- outdoor arts (e.g., sustainable es. studios.com • Growing Community through Gardening building). Another part of our arts work Some special evenings, known involves publishing. Established Rena Upitis is Director at as the Dinner Entertainment in 2010, Wintergreen Studios Wintergreeen.
Thanks to: Sustainable Eastern Ontario for their sup- port in creating this insert, and the Ontario Peace and Email: [email protected] Trillium Foundation and the Community Environment Send submissions to: Foundation of Ottawa for providing funding. [email protected] Resource Centre Phone: (613) 230-4590 Coming Next Issue: Sustain Your Community Sustainable Enterprise Alliance: Think Local measure success through not just from big box retailers to local Studies show that there is a more environmentally responsible. from the Sustainable profits but also the value they independent businesses. We also multiplier effect when a dollar is The movement encourages a win- Enterprise Alliance place on their people and the encourage the purchase of local spent at a local independent busi- win outcome with benefits to both planet. “People. Planet. Profit.” produce and locally made goods. ness. For example, “buying local the community, economy and the n 2009 a group of entre- Treated as equals, all three can Businesses will be encouraged food has a multiplier effect of environment. preneurs and volunteers be nurtured. to do the same. 1.4 to 2.6 throughout the wider We intend to do the same for started the Sustainable In 2015, the steering com- Why should the community local economy” according to Ottawa, building a more resil- Enterprise Alliance (SEA), mittee realized that SEA needed support local businesses? We Sustain Ontario (2012). If every ient, interconnected community Iwhose goal is to advocate for to be financially sustainable and have all seen cities entice large household in Ontario spent $10 with benefits to people, planet environmentally conscious busi- needed an appointed staff mem- corporations to move into town a week on local food, that could and profit. nesses and professionals. We ber to work on delivering pro- with tax breaks, but often these add up to an additional $2.4 bil- As long-time SEA member launched with much fanfare grams, member recruitment and businesses move away when a lion in our local economy and Guy Souliere noted, “As a small in 2010 with over 60 found- community engagement. To that different jurisdiction sweetens create 10,000 new jobs. In fact, a business owner going through ing members representing not end, we became an incorporated the deal. Big businesses, unless 1% increase in local shopping in the good years and bad years, just brick-and-mortar businesses non-profit organization in 2016. they were born in the area, do British Columbia was shown to what helped me most and what I but students, builders, non-profit The Sustainable Enterprise not have a reason to stay when create 3100 jobs and $94 million enjoyed the most were the rela- partners and consultants. Alliance is grateful for the sup- times get tough. in wages for British Columbia tionships I built.” Over the years, we have port and capacity building ser- A local business, meanwhile, workers. Join us for our re-launch organized seminars highlight- vices provided by Sustainable has a vested interest in the com- SEA was inspired by the event on January 19, 2017, at ing green business practices and Eastern Ontario. With their help munity that it lives in, and can- work of the Business Alliance the Sustainable Capacity Centre hosted workshops and network- we have secured a grant and will not easily relocate just because for Local Living Economies on the second floor at 969 ing sessions. We discussed top- employ a Local First Co-ordi- another jurisdiction has offered (https://bealocalist.org/). They Wellington Street West. We are ics like B-corporations and local nator. We will be organizing a them an incentive to move. work with networks of business- also actively looking for board first campaigns. local first campaign for Ottawa, Often local owners have es across Canada and the United members and volunteers. Our mandate is to bring togeth- appropriately on Canada’s 150th roots in the community. Local States, to highlight the benefits If you know a great candidate er local businesses to strengthen birthday — what better way to independent businesses tend to of investing, and support busi- for the Local first Sustainability their ties to each other and the celebrate! Check out goodwork. spend more locally, have local nesses with local roots. Cities Coordinator Position, please communities they serve. SEA ca or .com listings for the SEA’s lawyers and accountants, and in the US that were hard-hit by send a message to : sustain- recognizes the achievements of job posting. rely on other local suppliers and the 2007-08 financial crisis have ableenterprisealliance@gmail. local businesses, especially when business services. Profits earned found success by focusing on com / chair@sustainableenter- they reduce their environmental What is the Think Local First would also be spent locally. creating an environment friendly prisealliance.ca impact and show leadership on Campaign? Profits made by many large com- for local businesses. For more information: sustainability issues.Many mod- Think Local First is a cam- panies may be spent elsewhere In turn, these businesses trans- Twitter (@SustainAlliance) and ern businesses are applying a paign to encourage citizens to or held and invested abroad to form their operations to think local on the Web: sustainableenter- triple bottom line, where they shift some of their spending avoid paying local taxes. first and take steps to become prisealliance.ca Ecology Ottawa: Working for a Green City for Canada’s 150th anniversary engagement in the fight against Plan. If well designed, this plan cies in North America. by Robb Barnes —Moving forward with the invasive species. The Emerald could play a vital role in protect- Now, when streets across our transition to renewable ener- Ash Borer is now killing mil- ing and enhancing Ottawa’s tree city get refurbished, they must s we move into the gy and stopping the proposed lions of trees across our city, but canopy for generations to come. be viewed through a “complete last two years of the Energy East pipeline; and it has also galvanized Ottawa The debate about the pro- streets” lens. This includes con- Ottawa City Council —Working with residents residents to protect, plant and posed Energy East pipeline sidering the needs of pedestri- term, Ecology across the city to implement promote trees. comes at a time when politicians ans, cyclists and transit users AOttawa will continue to work in a “complete streets” vision in Ecology Ottawa has been at all levels of government are - not just drivers. three major areas: every neighbourhood. actively participating in the poli- saying that they want to do the In other words, if residents —Mobilizing Ottawa resi- Our work with trees proves cy discussion on the city’s brand right thing on climate change. stand up and demand more bike- dents to plant one million trees the power of community-level new Urban Forest Management The municipal government is and pedestrian-friendly streets, even working on a transition to city government now has the 100% renewable energy in the tools needed to re-build streets coming decades. accordingly. Within a few short It’s clear that the clean years, Ottawa can reach a lead- energy revolution is in full ership position on smart and swing, and there’s no time to sustainable urban design, but move backwards. That’s what only if we organize to demand makes the proposed Energy this change. East pipeline so alarming. Ecology Ottawa is continu- We at Ecology Ottawa know ing to work with residents in Canada cannot do its fair share neighbourhoods across the city on climate change while allow- to make progress on this vital ing the tar sands to expand as issue. projected with massive new oil All this work is powered pipelines. by Ecology Ottawa’s support We also know - thanks to base of volunteers and donors. an engineering analysis recently Hundreds of people from across conducted by a technical firm the city are working hard to - that a spill from Energy East organize in their communities would be devastating to Ottawa. and play vital roles in our cam- It would directly threaten the paigns. health of the Rideau and Ottawa We know that people power Rivers, cause irreversible dam- can make profound, positive age to ecosystems and threaten changes for our city and our our drinking water. world, so we’re always look- For all these reasons, we’re ing to connect with volunteers, organizing with local residents donors and neighbourhood orga- to make the case against Energy nizers who want to step up and East, and to encourage the tran- make Ottawa the green capital sition to 100% renewable energy of Canada. Though shovels and human sweat are essential to success of a community garden, enthusiasm at the municipal level. To find out more about how is sometime boosted by injection of resources to move plans forward. Last May Hugh Kruzel, Our work on complete streets to get involved or how to donate, on behalf of NORCAT, presented a cheque to the Elm West Community Garden organizers comes at a critical time for the please visit our website at
Community Engagement at the by Chantal Mason and University of Ottawa; Peter Kathryn Norman Andrée, Associate Professor in the Department of Political n a chilly Friday Science at Carleton University afternoon in the and a primary researcher with nation’s capital, a CFICE; and Sarah Dehler, the small but incredibly Sustainability Coordinator Odiverse group of environmen- of Physical Resources with tal professionals gathered at the Algonquin College. Sustainable Capacity Centre. Nestled in Ottawa’s trendy Ongoing programming Hintonburg neighbourhood, the Each panelist gave a brief second-floor room offered a introduction to the program- refreshing dose of natural sun- ming at their respective institu- light as the attendees mingled, tions. Stéphane discussed the helped themselves to refresh- Michaëlle-Jean Centre for Global ments, and settled into their seats and Community Engagement, for a lively networking session. its mission to match students The National Capital with community partners to col- Environmental Nonprofit laborate on projects in response Network (NCENN) has been to community needs, and its hosting regular monthly gath- goal to foster a sense of engage- Jason Garlough (OETN), Stéphane Cardinal (University of Ottawa) and Peter Andrée erings since 2008. This Fall ment between students and their (Carleton University) at the opening of the panel discussion. Sarah Dehler from Algonquin Roundtable session, co-host- community. The centre uses a College not shown. Photo: Kathryn Norman. ed by the Ottawa Eco Talent database of interested volunteers Network (OETN), introduced and organisations to run the pro- home to the Office of Applied ries they’ve witnessed come nity, but there are challenges the Ottawa Environmental gram, and celebrates excellence Research and Innovation, which out of their initiatives. Stéphane and opportunities for improve- Brokerage Initiative to the com- with awards. has several research centres described a team of students ment. All three panelists agree munity, and opened a dialogue The situation at Carleton focused on applying today’s working on resource creation for that there is a sore lack of sup- between academics and non- University differs, as Peter knowledge and technologies in the Centretown Citizens Donor port and resources (both human profits about how they can work Andrée explained. There is no the creation of useful products, project to encourage and educate and financial) for these projects. together more effectively. Many of the non-profits say that The Ottawa Environmental the capacity of the organizations Brokerage Table includes com- to provide appropriate supervi- munity organizations along sion of students is a major bar- with environment sector faculty, “Combining community-based demonstration projects rier for them. Ironically, groups staff, and researchers from local who could benefit the most from universities and colleges who with critical policy analysis, Community First extra help are often not in a good feel passionate about developing position to do so. initiatives addressing environ- Impacts of Community Engagement (CFICE) There are clearly more con- mental sustainability in Ottawa. versations that need to be had It was born from the Community between non-profits, colleges, First Impacts of Community aims to answer the question: How can community- and universities to share best Engagement (CFICE) action practices and more effectively research project. campus engagement be designed and implemented in harness student resources for the NCENN, OETN, CFICE... benefit of the local environment. That’s a lot of acronyms to But it was refreshing to hear remember, but it gives one a ways that maximize the value created for non-profit from so many individuals with sense of the wide network of a good mix of realism and opti- environmentally conscious and community-based organizations?” mism about what can be accom- community driven organizations plished. present here in Ontario. —Carleton Centre for Community Innovation Advances like changing rules The meeting commenced around student research grants with a few words from to allow collaboration with com- Sustainable Eastern Ontario’s munity groups, and the ongo- Kathryn Norman, who, after established program in place services, and processes. tenants on how to they could be ing development of the Ottawa counting off the impressive list and instead Carleton operates There are two options avail- using less energy, eating more Environmental Brokerage of organizations she wears a hat on a decentralized network of able: In-Class Projects (ICP), greenly, and conserving more Initiative are encouraging steps in, good-humouredly asked the passionate educators. Without a smaller projects where students water. in the right direction. other attendees to follow suit. system in place, it can be dif- work together in teams, mainly Peter recounted one student’s More input from groups who One by one, those of us sit- ficult to know who is doing on campus grounds, to complete research on making unique com- have worked with students and ting in the audience stood up to what, exactly, but the goal is the research goals, and Stand-Alone munity gardens accessible to students who have worked with introduce ourselves along with same - to help students connect Projects, where Algonquin stu- those with disabilities, and how groups would be very much the various organizations with with projects and organizations dents and faculty work with the research lead to community appreciated! Get in touch at whom we were associated, giv- in the community that they want industry clients outside of the partners changing their entire [email protected] or connect with ing a good impression of the to work with. While co-op and regular course schedule (typi- approach to the project. us on social media if you have a diversity of groups represented. community placement oppor- cally during the summer). Some Lastly, Sarah elaborated story to tell, or just want to fol- With a warm smile, Jason tunities connected with their financial support from com- on a group of students’ work low this topic. For more infor- Garlough, Executive Director of courses help students become munity partners is needed for with water quality testing in mation about the Ottawa Eco the Ottawa Eco-Talent Network, involved in the community, the these. the Muskrat River Watershed Talent Network, visit www.oetn. then introduced the roundtable’s potential of a centralized sys- Sarah also noted the extra and their research on how agri- ca. topic for the day: The Ottawa tem like the brokerage initiative difficulty of shorter program culture was affecting the area’s Environmental Brokerage would be helpful. length, which limits time to work water supply, a topic the group Chantal Mason is a volun- Initiative & Working with Post Algonquin College also does with students to one or two years recently heard about from the teer writer with the Peace and Secondary Talent. not have a centralized program instead of four. Muskrat Watershed Council. Environment Resource Centre. Three panelists sat at the for student-community engage- Kathryn Norman is the Social front of the room: Stéphane ment, but there are formal pro- Success stories The challenges ahead Media & Communications Cardinal from the Michaëlle- grams in place, Sarah Dehler The three panelists spent Great things are being Coordinator at Sustainable Jean Centre for Global and explained. Algonquin College is some time sharing success sto- accomplished in the commu- Eastern Ontario. January–March 2017 • PEN Insider • Peace and Environment News • 3 Showcasing Local Sustainability Initiatives
enacted or updated existing by- This will discourage rodents and by Kathryn Norman laws to allow the keeping of predators. urban hens. In total, there about Many other cities have over- ustainable Eastern 45 Canadian municipalities come these “issues” by putting Ontario is a non-profit allow backyard hens. But so far, in place a set of provisions in based in Ottawa that Ottawa just isn’t one of them. their by-laws such as: no roost- provides networking The City of Ottawa by-law ers, maximum number of hens, Sand capacity building services number 2003-77 currently bans siting restrictions, as well as to smaller environmental groups the keeping of hens and any other safety, health and construction across the Eastern Ontario livestock, unless your property guidelines. By allowing for small region. is zoned as Agricultural. It’s numbers of responsibly raised It holds regular network- worth keeping in mind that this urban hens, the City would fol- ing meetings and workshops, applies even to residential prop- low the successful example of offers social media and com- erties in Ottawa’s more rural other progressive Canadian cit- munications services, and has areas. ies by strengthening our region’s micro-grants for specific proj- This is likely due to miscon- food security and sustainability. ects. The organization also man- ceptions around the keeping of Backyard Chickens Ottawa ages the Sustainable Capacity hens. Here are some common is a community member initia- Centre, which is a collaborative concerns, along with facts to tive to promote updating the workspace and rental office in address the concerns: bylaws to allow the keeping of Ottawa’s Hintonburg neighbour- Noise: Laying hens produce hens in Ottawa. Look us up on hood. a variety of vocalizations that Facebook to get involved. Backyard chicken coops can be very attractive. Photo: Part of what we do at at their loudest, only register Leslie-Anne Robertson. Sustainable Eastern Ontario (or 63 decibels. This means that Earth Path SEO) is highlight and celebrate even when it occasionally gets Earth Path has been running some of the great work being “loud,” a hen is no more of a outdoor education programs for Wakefield, both near Ottawa. interactive data map, or even done on sustainability issues in noise nuisance than lawn mow- children and adults for a cou- Programming is currently lim- sign up to start making observa- our area. This article aims to do ers, children playing, or barking ple of years. The organization ited to Spring-Fall, but plans are tions yourself, visit www.water- just that by shining on a light dogs. is now busy working to make underway to construct an indoor rangers.ca. You can also look on some newer or revamped Smell: Chickens produce things more official and expand space for year-round teaching. Water Rangers up on Facebook initiatives people may not have only a few tablespoons of their program offerings as a non- If you are interested in pro- (search for “waterrangers”) or heard of. manure per day. Therefore, if profit. gramming for a specific group Twitter (under “water_rangers”) we keep our coops clean, odour Earth Path was started by or on a particular subject, you to get in touch. Backyard Chickens Ottawa should not be an issue. It’s easy sisters Bryarly and Corinne can learn more by visiting www. Sustainability. Healthy living. to compost chicken manure in McEachern. It aims to help earthpath.ca or contacting us at Sustainable Growth in Eastern Stewardship. You likely apply the green bins or backyard com- foster meaningful relationships @earthpath.ca or 613-858-8822. Ontario these principles daily by put- posters for a welcome addition between people and the natural Earth Path is also on Facebook, This last project isn’t really a ting kitchen waste into the City to any garden. world. just look up “earthpathpro- formal group, but it merits atten- of Ottawa green bins instead of Disease: Chicken droppings How is this done? Programs grams.” tion because the sort of work into the garbage. Maybe you do not transport parasites as do for youth and adults involve lots it does is important and often even have a little vegetable gar- the feces of dogs and cats. Small of time outdoors observing and Water Rangers overlooked. den in your backyard. backyard flocks are also at much learning about wildlife, working Sometimes described as As economic development What if there was another lower risk of contracting seri- together to solve problems, and a “gateway drug to science” continues in Eastern Ontario, option available to you that ous diseases (think avian flu) learning basic skills to do with by its director Kat Kavanagh, several groups throughout the would put nourishing food on than are jam-packed commer- wild-crafting, outdoor safety and Water Rangers is the result of region have noticed that there your table? Enter the backyard cial flocks. The remaining health survival, and community build- a winning idea to come out of isn’t much momentum to ensure hen! risks can be effectively managed ing. Special programming for the 2015 Ottawa River “Aqua that this growth happens in a Backyard hens provide many by keeping coops clean and only teachers interested in connect- Hacking” Summit. The program sustainable manner and protects benefits, from improving local keeping hens that are at least ing their students to the local is a way to empower everyday important greenspace and wild- food security to providing valu- four months old. ecosystem is also available. This Canadians to be able to collect life corridors. able educational opportunities Predators: Similar to other includes everything from special and make sense of data about the Groups like the for young people to learn about potential food sources like bird field trips to ongoing curriculum waterways they love through a Algonquin2Adirondacks col- where their food comes from. seed in feeders, cat food in the development support. “Citizen Science” model. laborative, the Mississippi Enthusiasm for keeping urban laneway, or open trash bags, Programs take place on the With an interactive online Valley Conservation Authority, hens has spread throughout the problem of predators can Just Food Farm in Blackburn map, a phone app, and lend- the Muskoka Land Trust, the North America. be dealt with through proper Hamlet, or at the Eco Echo able water testing kits, Water Greenspace Alliance and many Many cities have already food storage and secure coops. Environmental Campus in Rangers makes it easy for teach- more meet informally to strat- ers, students, parents or really egize and coordinate their just about anyone to get out efforts. there, learn about their local Together, they can better waterways, and contribute to a advocate for the protection of much-needed database of infor- some of the amazing natural mation. In turn, this will help areas that are often taken for protect these critical habitats. granted in our beautiful prov- Water Rangers is based in ince, but are becoming increas- Ottawa. It began as a way to ingly rare nationally and inter- help protect the Ottawa River. nationally. Its current scope is much larger, Anyone interested in learn- and the group is always build- ing more or having their organi- ing partnerships with other con- sation get involved with these servation groups locally and types of efforts should contact abroad to make it easier for the Gary Sealy at gary.sealey@ public to access and contrib- gmail.com. ute to meaningful conservation research. Kathryn Norman is the The small but mighty team Programs & Communications at Water Rangers combines a Coordinator at Sustainable strong background in technol- Eastern Ontario. To learn more ogy and design with a love of about any of the groups here, science and wetlands to create inquire about renting space in a dynamic non-profit that gets a our collaborative office, or just lot done and engages volunteers find out more about the work and the public in a unique way. of SEO, you can email her at: To learn more about Water kathryn@sustainableeasternon- Water Rangers in action! Photo: Kat Kavanaugh. Rangers, take a look at their tario.ca. • Peace and Environment News • PEN Insider • January–March 2017 Providing Wheels for Refugees concentrating on bike donations by Safiya Olivadoti-Benoit and refurbishing. The program is now called Wheels4Refugees. n 2015, Bioregional In 2016, Wheels4Refugees North America (in part- collected donated bicycles, nership with the Healthy refurbished them, and placed Transportation Coalition) them with Syrian families who Ipiloted the Bike Host program have recently arrived in Ottawa. in Ottawa and began provid- Participants received training ing bicycles to residents of in safe cycling and basic bike two Ottawa neighbourhoods: maintenance and were provided Bayshore and Heron Gate. with essential safety gear and a The program was successful bicycle. The goal for the year in placing bicycles with new was to place at least 100 bicycles immigrants on a neighbour- with recently arrived Syrian chil- hood basis, resulting in a 128% dren and their parents. This goal increase in the use of active was met by October by provid- transportation among the partici- ing 125 bikes and safe cycling pants. It was reported that some training for 117 people. participants saved approximately Weels4Refugees Youth an hour each day while traveling Mentors were Arabic-speaking for errands, work and classes, volunteers who helped the city and were delighted to spend the of Ottawa’s bike school with extra time with their families. translation, facilitating the train- Despite its positive impact ing of Syrian families on how to on the cycling behavior of the cycle safely around Ottawa and A refugee family enjoying their bikes at a Wheels4Refugees event at Mooney’s Bay, Ottawa. participants, the program faced other basic bike maintenance Photo: Safiya Olivatdoti-Benoit. challenges in meeting partici- skills. This empowered the new- pation targets and resources. comers to get comfortable with filled out the pre-program sur- impressive 342% more often Participants are using their Therefore, this year the focus cycling as a free, healthy, and vey and 73 filled out the post- than prior to their participation bikes to run errands, get to work has been narrowed from the gen- independent form of transporta- program survey. They indicated in the program. Many of these and school and have fun. Forty eral newcomer population to new tion around their new city. that they are using active trans- participants are riding the bus percent indicated that they use Syrian refugee families, and is Of the 125 participants, 91 portation (walking, cycling) an less often, helping with their their bikes to get groceries, while family’s budget since biking is 26% indicated that they use their less expensive. bikes to get to school and 19% Prior to the program it was indicated that they use their Celebrating Leaders assumed that none of the par- bikes to get to work. In addition, ticipants were using bicycles at 43% indicated that they use their any point in an average week as bikes to have fun. the majority were newly arrived In the beginning stages of in Sustainability to the city. This assumption was this program, many doubted confirmed when participants whether Syrian women would foster partnership and collabora- Right Bike, Transition Cornwall, were asked through the post be interested in cycling. While by Angus Argyle and Gail tion on sustainability initiatives and Wintergreen Studios. program survey for the num- men outnumbered the women Walker throughout the Eastern Ontario SEO’s awards committee ber of days they cycled before who participated in the program, region carefully considered the impact, receiving their refurbished the experience of this program nnovators of sustainability As part of this, SEO is excited sustainability, leadership and bikes. According to the post shows that many women are in Eastern Ontario, please to announce the debut of our several other factors for each program survey, 95% of the par- interested in cycling. Of the 42 stand up! It’s time to rec- Sustainability Star awards and nominee. The winners of the ticipants began cycling at least adults to participate in the pro- ognize and celebrate the the nominees in 2017. These first round have already been once a week. Of those, 30% gram, 7 were women and 35 Iamazing people and organiza- awards will recognize outstand- selected, but we’re not going to were using their bikes five times were men. tions leading the way to more ing contributions to sustainability announce them here. Keep an a week. The majority of the par- sustainable communities. That’s by groups working in all or part eye out at upcoming big eco- Participants are now less reli- ticipants in the program were exactly what Sustainable Eastern of Eastern Ontario in areas such events for announcements and ant on public transportation. For children. Virtually all of them Ontario’s annual Sustainability as safeguarding water quality, awards. Follow us on social many Syrian refugees in Ottawa, received training in safe cycling Star awards intend to do! improving access to sustainable media to find out who the lucky the cost of bus fare is a bur- and helmets along with their Climate change, invasive transportation options, protect- winners are, and how you can den that can have a significant bicycle. We hope that this species and habitat preservation ing nature, sharing knowledge get involved in celebrating all impact on the household budget opportunity will nurture in each are complicated and sometimes of sustainable living, enhancing the amazing sustainability work and on an individual’s ability to of these children a lifelong rela- difficult issues, which is not sur- food security, and developing going on in your area! move around the city. The pre- tionship with the bicycle as a prising because we live in a green businesses and apps. Facebook: @sustainable. program survey indicated that sustainable and healthy mode of wonderfully complex world. A local woodworker will easternontario; 54% of the participants either transportation. However, as a species, we carve the awards and award Twitter: @Sustainable613 walked or bused as their major humans tend to prefer simple, recipients will also receive a LinkedIn: Sustainable mode of transportation. In the Safiya Olivadoti-Benoit easy problems - or at least sim- gift basket of local products and Eastern Ontario Network post-program survey, only 31% is the coordinator of the ple, easy solutions. And when services. In 2017, three awards Instagram: sustainable_east- reported that they use the bus at Wheels4Refugees program at we run into things that are hard- will go to organizations nomi- ern_ontario least twice a week. BioRegional North America. er, we tend to become discour- nated by the staff and board of aged and maybe give up. While SEO. In future years, the num- this might be a reasonable solu- ber of awards will increase. The This PEN Insider edition was produced in partnership with tion to some problems, it is not nomination process will also be these ones. enhanced to open up nominations Sustainable Eastern Ontario, with support from the Ontario That’s why it’s so important to all members of our network to celebrate sustainability suc- and allow individuals to receive Trillium Foundation and the Community Foundation of Ottawa. cesses and good work. Big prob- awards in addition to organiza- lems are tackled by breaking tions and businesses. Visit www. them down into smaller ones, SustainableEasternOntario.ca to and celebrating these smaller learn more about our networks victories reminds us what we’re and how to get involved. fighting for. The nominees for the first Celebrating is one of the “Four year of the Sustainability Star C’s” that Sustainable Eastern awards are: Algonquin to Ontario (SEO) promotes, together Adirondacks Collaborative, with Collaborating, Connecting Bluegrass Farms, Community and Capacity Building. These Foundation of Ottawa, Ecology come from our core mission to Ottawa, Ottawa Riverkeeper, January–March 2017 • PEN Insider • Peace and Environment News • Recycling and Re-using— Making a Difference three months. The funds are by John Dorner then turned over to Canadian Food for Children, a charita- op tabs on soft drink ble organization started by Dr. cans, used stamps, used Andrew Simone, a member of eye-glasses and milk the Franciscan Secular Order. bags. Do we throw Run entirely by volunteers, this Pthem into the garbage and add organization delivers food to filth to the earth? Or do we people in 18 to 22 developing follow the example of mem- countries. bers of the Catholic Women’s Eye-glasses are collected and League (CWL) and give them sent to the Medical Ministry value so that we show respect International Canada in Stoney for God’s creation while provid- Creek, Ontario. This Christian ing assistance to those in need? organization provides medical Recycling and re-using can make services to people in need in a difference! countries where there are few Sandra Blais, who has served services. A high proportion of for several years as president the world’s visually impaired of the CWL at Our Lady of the live in developing countries and Visitation Parish in Ottawa near therefore it is a gift for them to Greely, has headed up the recy- have access to eye-glasses. cling and re-using program at her Milk bags cannot be recy- parish. She is pleased that CWL cled, but they can be kept out members from other parishes of landfill by giving them to have supported the program by the CWL, who make them into collecting pop tabs, stamps, eye- sleeping mats - a major ben- glasses and milk bags from their efit for those living in develop- Sandra Blais at Milk Bag Ministry Display Board following successful presentation. Photo: parishes and handing them over. ing countries. The plastic mats Christine St. Jean. Several local schools are also warm up in hot countries and collecting the items and incor- become comfortable to sleep or homes, day care centres, res- Web Watch porating them into their environ- sit on. The chemical in the print- taurants and businesses. CWL mental studies. ing deters harmful parasites that councils in the Ottawa Diocese How are these items used? could otherwise invade the body have also been most generous in Pop Tabs are given to Clifford of someone sleeping or sitting contributing. Sustainability Bowey School, which serves on the ground. One of our favourite stories further adoption of sustainable children with moderate to severe Several members of the CWL took place in July, when Sandra by Steffan Hammonds practices by businesses, organi- developmental disabilities. The and other crafters in Ottawa have Blais received an email alerting zations, government, and indi- tabs have monetary value as been actively involved in making her that a printing error was made Sustainability viduals. they are an excellent source of mats. They use looms they make on 300,000 milk bags and that
Center for Sustainability at Sustainability Metrics Aquinas Collese
be used to gain experience and organizations have been frustrat- unteering, where one or many cumstances, or can be modified by Kathryn Norman knowledge in a desired field of ed with their volunteers at times. volunteers show up for a spe- to suit your abilities if mobility, employment. This is especially The root of this problem is not cific, brief activity such as a health, financial, language or olunteering—giving important for younger people taking the time to make sure a tree planting or trash collecting other concerns are holding you your time, skills and and recent graduates, who are volunteer is a good fit for the event. The Tim Hortons “Spring back. Some positions may let energy to a cause increasingly likely to be unem- role that needs to be filled and Cleaning the Capital” campaign you work from home or anoth- without expectation ployed or underemployed while vice versa, something both vol- is an excellent example of epi- er accessible location, or may Vof being paid - has traditionally they search for a position related unteers and organizations need sodic volunteering. Busy people allow you to bring your children been considered something that to what they went to school for. to be aware of. and students often find this sort with you. Volunteering opportu- we do for the benefit of others. Employers are more likely to of thing ideal, since they know nities for new immigrants can be Indeed, many non-profits and pay attention to applicants with Personal goals exactly what they’re signing up a great way to practice English charities depend on their volun- relevant volunteer experience So how can you, a potential for and don’t have to worry or French conversation as well teers and would be lost without and practical skills gained from volunteer, make sure that you’re about long-term life changes as make connections in a new them. volunteering. signing up for something you interfering with their ability to community. However, volunteers also The networking opportuni- will enjoy and make a real con- contribute. benefit from giving their time. ties that come with volunteering tribution to? Fortunately there While some projects are ideal Getting started Some of these benefits are obvi- are very important, and the con- are many great organizations for episodic volunteering, many So how do you get started? ous. We feel good when we fidence that comes from having locally that will help you find groups need help on a longer There are many resources for contribute our time and see our a chance to get to know the sec- interesting opportunities and term or ongoing basis. Even if people curious about volunteer- efforts making a difference to tor and practice relevant skills make sure you’re a good fit for you don’t expect anything to ing. Volunteer Canada is a great a cause that we care about, and make a huge difference in job those opportunities. change in the near future that organization that can help you we might get to spend our time interviews. (For more informa- Probably the most important would affect your ability to vol- determine what sort of volun- doing activities that we enjoy in tion about skills-based volun- thing to consider when volun- unteer, it can be helpful to make teer roles might be good for the company of other like-mind- teering and careers, visit www. teering is what you are hoping a specific time commitment you (take their volunteering quiz ed people. Certainly nothing CharityVillage.com). to get out of the experience, and when considering a volunteer online) and connect you with combats a feeling of hopeless- You can use services like what you are passionate about. position, such as six months or your local volunteer centre. In ness about complex problems the Ottawa Eco Talent Network If you’re a recent graduate a year. This helps organizations Ottawa, Volunteer Ottawa (www. like rolling up your sleeves and (www.oetn.ca) to connect your from a journalism program, for because they know they won’t volunteerottawa.ca) allows you getting to work on part of that particular skills to a non-profit example, you’re probably going invest a lot of resources train- to search a database of available problem! that could really use them, or to get more out of volunteer- ing someone who will change opportunities and filter results Research in social science, check out the tools available ing for a community newspaper their mind next week, and it also by things like language require- public health, psychology and online through Volunteer Canada (like the PEN - email info@ gives you a gracious way to step ments, accessibility, etc., making many other fields is revealing to help you frame your volun- perc.ca if you’re interested!) down if it turns out the position it a great resource for volunteers many concrete benefits enjoyed teer experience in terms of skills doing writing or editing than really isn’t what you were hop- with special needs. by volunteers, ranging from employers are looking for. you would out of being a board ing for. If it turns out to be a GoodWork Canada (www. being more attractive to employ- What you may have noticed member on a charity that works great fit, you can always sign up goodwork.ca) is a directory of ers in their desired field to stav- about these two examples is on food security issues. On the for another year! “green collar” jobs that contains ing off the effects of dementia. that they focus on demograph- flip side, if you’re a retired Of course sometimes it’s hard a volunteer section and allows For example, elderly people ics of society that tend to be farmer looking to stay connect- to tell if a position is a good fit you to search by province and who volunteer are more likely to very different - although some ed to the local food community until you give it a try, so be up city, so it’s another good place to remain physically active as they new graduates are also retir- and share the wisdom you have front about what you’re look- look if environmental causes are age, and show slower age-related ees. This hits on a very impor- from years of experience, being ing for from the beginning and what you’re passionate about. declines in cognitive processes. tant feature of volunteering: on such a board might be per- keep an open, friendly dialogue Finally, there’s just asking! They also enjoy greater social finding a good fit between fect. with your volunteer manager. Many non-profits could use a connectivity, as volunteering the volunteer, and the position Most are flexible and will give hand but may be too busy to fills a gap that might be left by they are filling. Time commitment you a chance to shadow another draft and circulate volunteer work after they retire, and they Most of us have contributed Also very important is think- volunteer or staff member to see positions, or may not even real- experience less loneliness as a our time in some way at some ing about the amount of time how it goes, or to make any nec- ize they could use the help. If result. (For more information on point in our lives, and unfor- you have, both in terms of num- essary accommodations. there’s a group you support that volunteer benefits in the elderly, tunately many of us have had ber of hours to volunteer and in Speaking of making accom- you’d really like to get involved visit www.VolunteerCanada.ca/ a volunteering experience that terms of length of commitment. modations, don’t be put off vol- with, write them or give them a research-resources). was less than ideal. If you’ve One recent trend in volunteer- unteering if you have special phone call. Explain your interest ever worked in a capacity where ing, especially among young needs! Many volunteer positions and skill set and say you’d be Honing your skills you were recruiting or managing people and corporate volunteer- are ideal for people with limita- happy to meet to discuss pos- Skills-based volunteering can volunteers, you know that many ing programs, is episodic vol- tions due to health or life cir- sible opportunities. You might not get exactly the role you’re looking for, but you’ll probably get something. If you have a talent or passion you want to exercise, but you can’t find a group to reach out to or don’t feel comfortable making the first move, you can always get in touch with Sustainable Eastern Ontario. Our mandate is to support the environmental sector locally by helping people who do good work do it bet- ter, so we’re always connecting opportunities up with resources and have a good sense of which groups are working on what. If we can’t answer your questions right away, we can at least con- nect you to the people who can. Visit www.SustainableEastern Ontario.ca or email kathryn@ sustainableeasternontario.ca for more information.
Kathryn Norman is the Social Media & Communications Coordinator at Sustainable The Wintergreen Lodge, a large off-grid straw bale and cordwood structure with a green roof. Photo: Rena Upitis. Eastern Ontario. January–March 2017 • PEN Insider • Peace and Environment News • 7 Community Gardens: Growing so much more than food
mal, all sorts of models are being by Hugh Kruzel tested and adopted. Even a “food forest” is being called for in rowing goodness is Sudbury. “Guerilla gardening” is little different than happening in abandoned lots and tending a garden. along curbsides. Why not cultivate In Sudbury, the number of Gcommunity by planting seeds of gardens has exploded. During hope, fostering the future, and the past three years, the number nurturing neighbourhoods? surpassed 20 active sites (now at The rapidly rising numbers 22; see www.foodshedproject. of community garden initiatives ca). is a thing worthy of pride. It is The gardens’ alignment happening more and more across with the Greater Sudbury Food the country, including in Victoria, Charter (www.sudburyfoodpol- Ottawa, Toronto and Sudbury. icy.com) and local food strat- Sometimes it seems as if a nation- egy is encouraging. There are al plan were being enacted. monthly meetings with commu- Yet equally often, a commu- nity, and the February through nity garden is not prearranged, June period is especially busy managed, nor staged out of pol- discussing expansion plans and icy or mandate. Instead, a com- planting regimes. There are also mitted group of citizens some- motivational contests, like a Victoria Downtown Residents’ Association’s Nicholas Harrington proudly presented the prog- times spontaneously gathers, and “tallest sunflower competition.” ress of repurposing an urban space in the Yates Street / Harris Green corridor. Photo: Hugh imagines a better world through Fortunately for the Sudbury Kruzel. producing food together. Community Garden Network, Whether small or large, urban the guiding hand of the Foodshed other community members, who players. Raising a work party Children are a great group to or rural, pop-up or permaculture, Project combines with knowl- all willingly collaborate. often takes the enticement of educate with garden program- allotment, benevolent, member- edgeable players like farmers, For instance, the Sudbury a BBQ or warm tea and sand- ming. Current offerings include ship-driven, organized or infor- city staff, local industry and Public Library Main Branch wiches in April, or cool drinks “Hands on in the Garden” and now houses a seed collection. It and an umbrella in the height of “Hands on in the Kitchen” pro- includes heritage, heirloom and summer. grams, and a transformative locally successful varieties. In The Spring planting craze learning session called “Edible collaboration with the local hor- may be followed by forgetting Education from Field to Plate” ticultural club, a Seedy Saturday about the importance of thinning, specifically directed at children event takes place annually in fade to worrying about watering, and youth. All this is happening March. and then lead to neglecting the in Sudbury, but things like this Events like these—you can weeding. But not always! Some are taking place everywhere... look up the next Ottawa Seedy community gardens just seem coast to coast to coast. Saturday online—become some- to thrive. What can you do in your own thing tangible people can believe Programming makes a differ- community? Spring is not so far in. They can hear about it, see it, ence. Having a central teaching away. Get ready for season 2017. line up for the doors to open, and garden that is a hub also works. In Ottawa, you can look up the learn about and trade seeds, right This could include composter Just Food website to locate and to the closing minutes. building sessions, soil amelio- sign up for local-area gardens. Yet retaining volunteers ration talks (like those deliv- Imagine the possibilities. and even recruiting more is not ered by Dr. Gerard Courtin from always easy. Much work is done Laurentian University), or work- Hugh Kruzel reports from by a small team; sometime it shops on how to prepare foods Sudbury, Ontario and Victoria, comes down to one or two core with the garden’s produce. BC. Manifesto of the FoodShed Project, Sudbury Community Garden Network
We envision: A food garden for every neighbourhood Our mission: —To increase opportunities and access to community gardening in the Sudbury District; —To strengthen and build community by ensuring that local neighbourhoods, par- ticularly underserved areas have opportunities for community, school, and neighbour- hood gardening;
Stuart McCall not only is a local organic farmer but has —To develop outreach, education, and skill building programs to cultivate and sus- been instrumental in establishing and supporting community tain community-based gardens; gardens across the Sudbury region. Here he is at the garden —To build support for community-based gardening through networking, advocacy, at First Baptist during spring planting. This garden is highly and activism. visible to passing motorists as well as parishioners and may encourage others to join or start a new site. Photo: Hugh Kruzel. • Peace and Environment News • PEN Insider • January–March 2017