The city and the regional district share goals of significantly reducing greenhouse gas by 2050, so the two levels of government are partnering on a climate action program.
The City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo launched Acting for Climate Together, a volunteer engagement initiative, according to a joint press release.
“Participants will receive staff support to develop innovative climate action projects or choose from off-the-shelf options that reflect the needs and values of our communities,” noted the press release. “Through participation … groups will complete designated actions to earn climate action badges in the following categories: transportation, food and waste, buildings and energy, nature and climate knowledge.”
Groups can include, but are not limited to, neighbourhood associations, community groups, non-profits, religious groups, or school classes.
Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog and RDN chairperson Vanessa Craig noted in the press release that teamwork is needed to tackle climate change.
“Responding effectively to climate change requires the participation of many, including residents, community groups, businesses, institutions and all levels of government,” Krog said. “Through Acting for Climate Together, our collective actions will have a greater impact on reaching community emission targets and building climate resilience.”
Craig echoed Krog’s sentiments, calling the program “an exciting opportunity” to engage residents in meaningful environmental action.
“We look forward to seeing the collaborative, community-led projects that will help us reach our climate action goals while contributing to a livable region for all,” she said.
The RDN seeks to reduce greenhouse gases by 80 per cent of 2007 levels by 2050, while the city seeks reduction of 94-107 per cent of 2010 levels in that same time frame.
The program is partially funded by International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives’ agents of change grant.
An information session will be held over Zoom on Thursday, Jan. 19 from 5-5:30 p.m. Groups are invited to apply for the program by Feb. 10. For more information, go to www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/acting-for-climate.
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karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com
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