Dear Green Neighbours
As we move into the second month of increased public health measures, we are inspired by how individuals and organizations have found ways to support each other. And although it may be a while until we see each other in person, the many online events still give us a chance to get involved in new and meaningful ways.
Are there green news or resources you'd like to see included in the Green 11 newsletters? Send your items and ideas to greenward11@gmail.com.
Green 11 Monthly Meeting
Monday, May 11, 7 pm
Online
Please join us at our next meeting, on Monday, May 11 at 7 pm. The meeting will be hosted on Zoom. In order to keep the meeting secure, we ask that you contact Paul Overy at paul.greenward11@gmail.com to receive log in info for the meeting and to suggest any items for the agenda.
Calls to Action
Urge Ottawa to Support a Green Recovery
We hope we can rebuild better than “normal” once we get through the worst of this pandemic. Once the immediate public health emergency is under control, the federal government will release a spending package to jump-start economic recovery. David Suzuki Foundation has identified eight near-term projects the government should include in this package that would put people back to work, build collective resilience and help address the biodiversity and climate crises.
They have shared the recommendations with the government and need help to demonstrate public support for a green recovery. You can read and sign the petition here. davidsuzuki.org/action/green-recovery/
Open letter by the Council of Canadians – Recovery should focus on workers, communities, and people, not corporate interests
Oil and Gas lobbyists have been meeting regularly with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s inner cabinet to push their agenda to deregulate the oil and gas industry and cancel environmental regulations meant to keep us healthy and safe – and they are doing it under the guise of responding to the COVID-19 crisis.
To find out more and sign The Council of Canadians open letter asking the federal government to focus our recovery from COVID-19, on people, workers and communities, not the corporate interests of Big Oil, visit here: canadians.org/page/59420/petition/1
Green News and Resources
EarthFest Live: Creative Solutions for a New World
April 19-25, daily 2 - 3:30 pm
Online creativelyunited.org/earthfest-live/
Creatively United for the Planet is offering a free online EarthFest webinar series, daily from April 19-25, featuring an incredible line up of presenters who will explore a multitude of transformational possibilities and creative solutions to move us forward. Each presentation will be recorded and available on CreativelyUnited.org for those who are unable to attend the live webinar.
Thursday, April 23 - Creating One Planet, Self-Sustaining Communities with Jack Anderson, Chad Thiessen, Ken Nentwig, & Pooran Desai
Friday, April 24 – Regenerative Agriculture and The Zero-Mile Diet with Carolyn Herriot & Gary MacDougall
Saturday, April 25 – Bouncing Forward to a One Planet Region: Could Covid-19 be a Social Tipping Point? With Dr. Trevor Hancock & Nigel Seale
Toward A Green and Just Recovery for Toronto
Thursday, April 23, 4pm - 5pm
Online - Zoom (RSVP for the link) tea@torontoenvironment.org
Join the Toronto Environmental Alliance for the first in a series of discussions to envision a just and green recovery for Toronto. The decisions our governments make must put us on a path to recovery that builds a more just, resilient and sustainable city. What does that pathway to recovery look like in Toronto? What are we learning during this crisis that helps us imagine a path forward? What are concrete actions Toronto could take in its recovery plan? These are some of the questions we'll be exploring during this online discussion. Note: we are planning to record a portion of this event. If you can't attend but would like to be sent a link to the recording, please RSVP.
Earth Day Live – Strike, divest, and vote for our future
Wednesday, April 22 – Friday, April 24
Online: earthdaylive2020.org/
Earth Day Live will feature a three-day livestream where millions of people can join activists, celebrities, musicians, and more in an epic moment of community and hope for the future. From April 22, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, to April 24, activists, performers, thought leaders, and artists will come together for an empowering, inspiring, and communal three-day livestream mobilization. The fights against the coronavirus and the climate crisis go hand-in-hand, and as we work to flatten the curve of this pandemic, we must strive toward the longer-term goal of building a society rooted in sustainability and justice.
Virtual Strike for Climate Justice
Friday, April 24, 11 am - noon
Fridays for Future Toronto will be holding a final online rally this Friday, live streamed on their Facebook account. You'll be able to take part in a discussion as well as have the opportunity to ask any questions. See facebook.com/events/670255423735161/ for details. If you would like to speak, have any questions or concerns please contact fridays4futureto@gmail.com.
Webinar: What is a Green Recovery Anyway?
Friday, April 24, 7 - 8:30 pm
Livestream link: youtu.be/b30ekHXfb64
Join Greenpeace experts to discuss how to achieve a just and green recovery. Featuring:
- Brittany Andrew Amofah, Senior Policy and Research Analyst at the Broadbent Institute
- Tłakwasikan Khelsilem, First Nation's cultural leader, Squamish Nation councillor and multidisciplinary artist
- Ananda Lee Tan, campaign director at Climate Justice Alliance. Environmental Justice and Just Transition Organizer, Labor Network for Sustainability & Working Group on Indigenous Food Sovereignty
More info here: facebook.com/events/606834466582806/?active_tab=about
Blue Scarf Earth Day Celebration: Voices of the Earth
Sunday, April 26, 2 – 4 p.m.
Online actionnetwork.org/events/online-event-blue-scarf-earth-day-celebration/
Learn about the global Blue Scarf movement and hear voices speaking out to protect the land, water, air and life. In previous years we have walked together through the streets of Toronto. This year we’ll virtually explore our country and the places that have made peace with the Earth.
Webinar: COVID-19: What does this mean for the fight against climate change?
Thursday, April 30, 10 - 11 am
Online climateaction.org/webinars/covid-19-what-does-this-mean-for-the-fight-against-climate-change
While COVID-19 has seemingly put environmental diplomacy on hold with the postponement of COP26 and the 15th Biodiversity COP, what does the current global health crisis mean for the ongoing climate crisis? In a year in which global political and business leaders are meant to put climate change first, what impact will this pandemic have on our collective ability to address the climate emergency?
Confirmed Speakers:
- David Nabarro – Special Envoy COVID-19 – World Health Organization
- Helena Molin Valdes – Director – United Nations Clean Air and Climate Coalition
- Martin Adams – Head of Health and Sustainable Resource Use (HSR) – European Environment Agency
- Pushpam Kumar - Chief Environmental Economist – United Nations Environment Programme
Even if you can’t attend the live webinar session, you can still register and have the full recording sent to you afterwards to view on demand.
Permaculture Links, Resources, Workshops
planetfriendly.net/permaculture.html
Permaculture for Families - Earth Activists Online series
Wednesdays, April 8 - May 20, 5 pm
Online eventbrite.com/e/permaculture-for-families-earth-activists-online-tickets-101757194508?aff=introwebinar
Take this time as an opportunity to learn more practical skills in: seed sharing, compost making, fun family focused activities, shifting to an ecologically focused paradigm. Through the use of permaculture ethics and principles, our desire is to offer foundational classes for parents, as well as weekly hands-on activities for families to grow and learn together.
Zero Waste News and Events
Deodorants That REALLY Work! Workshop
Friday, April 24, 7pm
Online (Pre-register to get your kit) anarreshealth.ca/workshop/workshop-deodorants-really-work-0
Discover which natural ingredients: balance perspiration; absorb & eliminate odours; are antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal; make cream deodorants self-spreading; stimulate the immune system; protect the skin and our friendly bacteria. We'll make a 100% natural, detoxifying, affordable and effective deodorant!
Secondhand Sunday shifts to sidewalk chalk art!
Sunday, April 26
Due to COVID-19 physical distancing requirements and to ensure the safety and health of Torontonians, Secondhand Sunday will be a little different this April 26.Instead of sharing your reusable items with your neighbours on Sunday, please consider sharing your sidewalk chalk art with them instead! Some examples may include environmentally friendly messages, children’s artwork, nature interpretation, or general messages of positivity and gratitude. Remember to take part in this activity in a safe and responsible manner while respecting physical distancing requirements. Please share your chalk art on social media by using the hashtag #secondhandsundayTO.
If you do not have chalk, please email info@secondhandsunday.ca and they can arrange to safely get you some. You can also consider making your own chalk through this DIY link HERE. And it’s a great STEM project for those of you with kids at home!
FYI a replacement Secondhand event is planned for Sunday September 27! If you are using this time to purge and clean your home, please try to save any reusable items for the fall event.
Litter-erature for Waste Litter-acy series
Tuesdays, April 21 to May 12
Online eventbrite.com/e/litter-ature-for-waste-litter-acy-registration-102605539932
Join the U of T Trash Team and Ocean Conservancy over four weeks as they present live readings of children’s books on the topic of plastic pollution, with very special guests – the authors themselves. They’ll also be joined by scientists from the U of T Trash Team to talk about their adventures in research and you’ll get the chance to interact and ask your own questions about plastic pollution. The team will then challenge you to take part in the “4-Week Challenge” with activities focused on reducing and reusing waste in your home.
Furoshiki (the Japanese art of reusable cloth gift wrapping) Tutorials
May 2 and 3 (pick one)
Online
eventbrite.ca/o/ecohesian-inc-27523890941
facebook.com/events/446188619400960/
Join in learning the beautiful Japanese art of Furoshiki - wrapping gifts and everyday items with zero-waste reusable cloth that cherishes people and the planet. Just in time for Mother’s Day!
Ongoing
For listings of zero waste related FB events taking place across the city, you’ll find them listed on the ‘Events’ tab at Zero Waste Hub Toronto's Page on Facebook!
facebook.com/0wasteTO/events/
COVID-19 News and Resources
Why we need a Green New Deal in the COVID-19 recovery
Ward 11 Councillor Mike Layton writes in The Star:
Everyone is doing what they can to help flatten the curve because leaders, the media, and people across our country understand the urgency. We need to approach the climate crisis with the same urgency and level of action. While climate change can’t be stopped by something as simple as physical distancing, it can be addressed by flattening (and reversing) the curve of our greenhouse gas emissions.
Read the full article here: thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2020/04/21/why-we-need-a-green-new-deal-in-the-covid-19-recovery.html
Tackling Food Insecurity During COVID-19
Over the past few weeks, Daily Bread Food Bank has been working closely with the City of Toronto and North York Harvest Food Bank, Canadian Red Cross and Second Harvest, to launch a city-wide, coordinated effort in response to food insecurity challenges due to COVID-19. Together, they have made significant strides in meeting the immediate and growing need in our communities. Read more and find out how to donate here: dailybread.ca/covid19/tackling-food-insecurity-during-covid-19/
Church of the Holy Trinity is providing meals and necessities to some 200 people daily, except for Saturdays. If you would like to contribute to their efforts, here is the link to their Go Fund Me donation page:
gofundme.com/f/help-holy-trinity-offer-food-for-those-in-need?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=m_pd+share-sheet
People in Toronto are putting out tables of free groceries for those in need
blogto.com/eat_drink/2020/04/people-toronto-are-putting-out-tables-free-groceries-those-need/
Waste Collection Updates
Yard Waste Pickup Continues to May 1
The City is continuing yard waste collection until May 1 and will review further pick-up at that point. Put your yard waste before 7 am on your collection day & leave out until it’s collected; use bags if possible, or open-top containers; bundle branches.
Read more about how to separate your waste, including cleaning supplies: toronto.ca/home/covid-19/affected-city-services/?accordion=garbage-recycling-and-organics
COVID-19 and Waste: Tips for High-Rise Buildings
Find Toronto Environmental Alliance’s Zero Waste High-Rise Project team list of tips and printable signs/posters here: torontoenvironment.org/covid19_waste_tips
Don't let COVID-19 take down our clean tech sector
Read Toronto’s CSI Director of Programs Barnabe Geis and Foresight CEO Jeanette Jackson’s op-ed in Canada’s National Observer: nationalobserver.com/2020/04/14/opinion/dont-let-covid-19-take-down-our-clean-tech-sector
Tackling climate change is vital for the strongest economic recovery after coronavirus
Covid-19 pandemic is a harbinger of climate disasters to come and the resilience we need to build into our systems – including health – to deal with what we know will be the adverse impacts of climate change.
theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/apr/14/reckoning-with-climate-change-will-support-the-strongest-possible-economic-recovery-after-coronavirus
#StayAtHome and Support Seniors!
As a means of keeping older Canadians engaged and connected during the COVID-19 crisis, a team of Canadian high schoolers created a hotline that plays pre-recorded messages of positivity. The Joy4All project offers regularly updated selection of jokes, stories, guided meditations, and educational messages for quarantined seniors across North America. Click here to find out how you can submit written or audio content to share! joy4all.ca/submissions
For more #stayathome ideas visit socialinnovation.org/impact/stories/
Find Climate Inspiration
David Suzuki Foundation’s Charged Up Library is full of stories from communities throughout the country, where people are working to build healthy, equitable, sustainable futures. Read about Aboriginal leaders Bringing Power to the People and youth Finding community in the climate movement.
Toronto Resources
Toronto Public Health Information
As the COVID-19 situation rapidly evolves, public health information is rapidly updated. You can access information on COVID-19 on the City of Toronto’s website https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/ and on Toronto Public Health’s Twitter https://twitter.com/TOPublicHealth.
Ward 11 Resources - Compilation of Information from Councillor Mike Layton’s Office
Staff in Councillor Mike Layton’s office have compiled information on non-profit, community, and government resources that can help Ward 11 residents in one document. The document provides information for those who require assistance, as well as for those who would like to help others in need. Click here to access the document and share widely.
Available social and community supports
Social Planning Toronto has been updating a list of resources on COVID-19, including available income, housing, seniors, youth, mental health, and domestic violence supports. View the resource list here.https://www.socialplanningtoronto.org/covid_19_resources
CareMongering-TO: TO Community Response to COVID-19
Post and respond to requests for help. https://www.facebook.com/groups/TO.Community.Response.COVID19/
Toronto Bike Brigade
The Toronto Bike Brigade, launched by Toronto lawyer Dave Shellnut, is a group of volunteers on bikes ready to deliver supplies and friendship to vulnerable people on behalf of community organizations or individuals in need during the COVID-19 pandemic in Toronto. If you want to volunteer or need help yourself, join the Facebook group. facebook.com/groups/2590493207940505/?fref=nf
Cycling Resources
Cycling in the time of COVID-19 cycleto.ca/news/cycling-time-covid-19
What bike shops are open cycleto.ca/OpenBikeShops
Tips for Shopping by Bike cycleto.ca/ShoppingByBike
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