BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//eMerge Guelph - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:eMerge Guelph X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://emergeguelph.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for eMerge Guelph REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20180101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20190310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20191103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20221028T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20221029T193000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20220822T203000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220908T174327Z UID:5270-1666972800-1667071800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:2022 eMERGE Ecomarket DESCRIPTION: \nWe’re back and celebrating our lucky13th anniversary! \nThe eMERGE EcoMarket will be attracting up to 5\,000 people to Downtown Guelph’s Old Quebec Street Shoppes (map)\, welcoming families and residents looking to discover their path to environmental living! \nThis is an excellent opportunity for your organization to promote your environmental work. It will connect you with an audience primed for sustainable options that are looking to reduce their impact on the environment and fight climate change. \n————— \nFriday Oct 28 \n – eMERGE EcoMarket – 4:00pm – 7:30 pm \nSaturday Oct 29 \n – eMERGE EcoMarket -10:00am – 3:00 pm \nhttp://ecomarketguelph.com/ \n—————– \nQuestions? Please don’t hesitate to contact Rasha Abusitta\, Event Coordinator\, at 519.763.2652 or by email at rasha@emergeguelph.ca \n—————————————————————————————- \nAbout eMERGE \neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by helping people reduce energy and water use. \nPromoting smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency helps Guelph build a road map to achieve 100% renewable energy long before 2050. This has the added benefit of a healthier community and a more resilient local economy. \n—————————————————————————————- \nOur sponsors: \n\n\n The City of Guelph – Water\n Old Quebec Street Shoppes\n Downtown Guelph URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/2022-ecomarket/ ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220605T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220605T170000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20220513T205429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220513T205429Z UID:5763-1654423200-1654448400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Electric Car Test Drives DESCRIPTION:Gas prices got you down?  \nOf course\, we’d prefer that you take active transportation or public transit. But if you’re still looking for an excellent alternative\, how about an electric vehicle (EV)? \neMERGE Guelph is hosting EV test drives and EV101 classes (registration required) that make you eligible for up to $2\,000 used EV rebates and $5\,000 in new EV rebates. All this for free with our friends from PlugnDrive and Alectra/Guelph Hydro \nTest drive one of three EVs on site and attend an EV 101 seminar. This one hour short course looks at everything you need to know to buy an EV\, new or used. Taking part in both a test drive and EV 101 class will also make you eligible for up to a $2\,000 in used EV rebates from PlugnDrive. \nTo register your spot for the EV101 Seminar and test drive click on the links below. \neMERGE EV 101 \nRegister for 11:00am – noon \nRegister for 1:00pm – 2:00pm \nRegister for 3:00pm – 4:00pm \n  \nElectric Car Test Drives (registration only on site) \n10:00am – 5:00pm  \nSunday\, June 5th\, 2022 \n42 Carden St Guelph.  \n  \nUp to 8\,000 new vehicles are sold in Guelph each year\, while very few are electric. Every EV that’s purchased (instead of a gas or diesel vehicle) reduces greenhouse gas emissions by over 3 tonnes per year. That’s massive. \nAll of this will help you understand:\n\nThe financial and environmental benefits of Electric Vehicles (EVs)\nKey considerations when purchasing an EV\nUnderstanding EV charging public and private\nLessons learned through case study examination\nHow Plug’n Drive’s Used EV and Scrappage Program works\n\nThere are two different EV rebates available: \n\nUp to $2\,000 Used EV Rebate from Plugn’Drive        \nUp to $5\,000 New EV Rebate from the federal government \n\n  \nCome downtown and check out different EV models\, chat with EV owners. Bring your questions about buying\, driving\, and owning an electric car.  \nCheck out this blog: Guelph buying gas- guzzlers at alarming rate \n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“WHY IS eMERGE PUSHING FOR EVs?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n  \n\n\n \n  \nThere are many ways to fight climate change. \nBut when it comes to transportation planning our approach at eMERGE is quite clear. Society has to take an approach that prioritizes 1) walking and then 2) cycling followed by 3) electrified public transit and finally 4) electrified personal transportation (cars). \n————————————————- \neMERGE EV Curious Event: \n          June 5th 2022 10am – 5pm \n          Free Test Drives: June 5th- 10 am to 5pm \n          EV 101 Sessions June 5th 11am\, 1pm\, 3pm \n———— \nContact: \n Evan Ferrari\, Executive Director \n519-763-2652 \nevan@emergeguelph.ca \n42 Carden St Guelph  \n  \n—————– \nBackground \n  \nAbout Plug ‘N’ Drive \nPlug’n Drive is a non-profit organization committed to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles to maximize their environmental and economic benefits. \n———————– \nThis event is sponsored by URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/electric-car-test-drives/ LOCATION:10C\, 42 Carden Street\, Guelph\, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220324T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220324T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20220302T010158Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220302T010158Z UID:5762-1648148400-1648153800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Rainwater Harvesting DESCRIPTION:From summer rain barrels to 4 season systems \nImagine using rain from your rooftop to water your garden\, wash your clothes and even flush your toilets. \nLearn how you can buy a rain barrel from the City of Guelph and access rebates up to $2\,000 for whole home rain water harvesting systems. This can be your first step to register your home for the Blue Built Home program. \nWhile people usually start with rain barrels for outdoor use\, some realize the opportunity is much greater than just a couple of 200 litre containers. What if we stored 1\,000 – 2\,000 litres or much more\, to use year round inside and outside our homes. \nThe process may seem daunting at first. But\, the reduction in your monthly water consumption and benefits to the environment can be well worth it. \nJoin us as we explore the options from seasonal rain barrels to year round rainwater harvesting systems: \nRainwater Harvesting \nThursday \, March 24\, 2022 \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \n \nOur Rain Water Experts include: \n\nStephanie Shouldice\, City of Guelph \,   Blue Built Homes\nEvan Bell\, WaterFarmers Urban Agriculture\nLarry Pomerantz\, RainBarrel.ca\nBen Morrison\, Clean Flo\n\nThe sponsors of this event: URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/rainwater-harvesting-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220308T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220308T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20220209T212551Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220209T212551Z UID:5124-1646766000-1646771400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Women's EV Night DESCRIPTION:Celebrate International Women’s Day at the eMERGE Women’s EV Night \nFor women by women. \nWhen it comes to buying an electric vehicle (EV)\, it still appears to be a man’s world. In fact\, up to 70% of EVs are purchased by men\, despite typical car ownership falling along typical gender lines. \nWe know that more women tend to be early ‘environmental adopters’ than men. That doesn’t appear to be the case when it comes to EVs . \nIn this webinar\, all of our experts are women. \nOver 8\,000 new vehicles are sold in Guelph every year\, but very few are electric. Every EV that’s purchased (instead of a gas or diesel vehicle) reduces greenhouse gas emissions by over 4 tonnes per year. That’s massive. \nThis webinar is designed to help ‘normalize’ the idea of new and used EV ownership for women. This will be informative\, casual and fun without getting too far down in the weeds. \nWe’re bringing together one of the country’s leading experts on EVs: Cara Clairman\, Chief Executive Officer from Plug’nDrive. She’ll be joined by local EV owners Mary Cameron and Beverley Fretz\, our eMERGE EV Ambassadors. They have made significant contributions in their careers\, their impacts on the environment and their families. \nBy the end of this webinar\, we want women to feel more comfortable in taking EV ownership seriously. Consider it an icebreaker. \n_______________ \nIn celebration of International Women’s Day\, all local registrants will receive a chance to win a water heater blanket. Raffle Draw closes March 8\, 2022 at 6:00 PM. Registrants will have their names entered into a draw to win a water heater blanket for their home.  Note: winner must be able to pick up the water heater blanket in Guelph \n____________________________ \nJoin us for the \neMERGE Women’s EV night: \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nTuesday\, March 8\, 2022 \nWith our presenters: \n\nCara Clairman Chief Executive Officer\, Plug’n Drive\nMary Cameron\, eMERGE EV Ambassador\nBeverley Fretz \, eMERGE EV Ambassaror\n\n_______________ \nAbout our presenters: \n \nCara Clairman \, CEO of Plug’n Drive \nCARA CLAIRMAN is President and CEO of Plug’n Drive\, a non-profit that is accelerating the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) to maximize their environmental and economic benefits. \nCara has taken Plug’n Drive from an idea to a thriving non-profit\, recognized as a leader in the EV space. In 2018 Plug’n Drive’s Electric Vehicle Discovery Centre was selected as Canada’s 2019 Top Project by the Clean 50 Community. \nCara has more than 20 years of experience working in the environmental and sustainability fields\, including 12 years working at Ontario Power Generation\, initially as OPG’s environmental lawyer and later in the role Vice President of Sustainable Development. Prior to joining OPG\, Cara spent five years practicing environmental law with the Torys law firm. \nShe holds a Bachelor of Laws from Osgoode Hall and a Masters in Environmental Studies from York University\, as well as an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from Queen’s University. \nCara is the 2017 recipient of the Women in Renewable Energy’s ‘Woman of the Year’ award. She is currently driving the 100% electric Tesla Model 3. \n_____________________________________\neMERGE EV Ambassadors: \n – Mary Cameron\, eMERGE EV Ambassador\, Chevy Bolt (used) \n \nMary has been helping us through the pandemic as an ER doctor and vaccinator in the ICU at Guelph General Hospital. At the same time she’s raising 4 kids and says “I used to be the one to teach them everything\, but more and more the roles have reversed and my kids teach me so much.” \nWhen it comes to the environment\, she’s been eating more of a plant based diet with dairy and meat only as an occasional treat\, and has planted about 100 trees (provided by Trees for Guelph) in her yard over the past several years. She is also in the midst of renovating their house to be heated with an electric air source heat pump. Her husband also decided to buy a used EV after seeing the benefits of Mary’s car. \nHer household includes a cat\, a dog\, 5 backyard chickens and tens of thousands of honeybees (but the bees stay outside). \n_________________ \nBeverley Fretz\, eMERGE EV Ambassador – Nissan Leaf (used) \n \nBeverley has spent her career working in education and training and is now at the University of Guelph as a Manager of Program Development for OpenEd Continuing Education. \nThe Volkswagen ‘dieselgate’ scandal provided her with the perfect opportunity to trade in her VW diesel for a used (2014) EV Leaf. While she regrets not getting an EV with more range\, the more humble Leaf does the trick for local ‘out and abouts’. And she can even fit her family of five – and the dog – in the car. \nWhile hoping the future will include another used EV vehicle with more range\, Beverley can’t imagine ever driving a gas vehicle again. She recommends EV driving for anyone who wants to reduce their environmental impact\, save money\, access the best parking spots (EV charging stations)\, and drive a vehicle that heats instantly (a winter bonus!). \n_____________________________________ \n \nAleena Singh\, Moderator \nAs a UX/UI Designer\, she works with small businesses helping them leverage technology to thrive during the pandemic and afterwards. Aleena joined eMERGE Board of Directors last January 2021 and since then she is an active member with an outstanding contribution to our organization . \nIn her spare time she’s passionate about nature\, gardening and considers herself a “serial hobbyist” (apparently that has nothing to do with Cheerios). She has just completed her first embroidery project\, crocheted a blanket\, knitted a sweater that’s taken more than 3 years and is now learning how to restore furniture! \nNature and gardening have a special place in her heart. She’s in the process of hiking the Bruce Trail\, tried cross-country skiing this winter and planning to grow fruit\, flowers and vegetable garden on her small balcony this summer. \nShe’s excited about being on the board because she “loves the impact eMERGE has within the Guelph community. It’s constantly working to help Guelphites learn about how to take action towards 100% renewable energy! I’m passionate about supporting local\, engaging our youth in environmental stewardship\, diversity and inclusion\, and social justice.” \n______________________ \nWhy is eMERGE pushing EVs? \nThere are many ways to fight climate change. \nBut when it comes to transportation planning our approach at eMERGE is quite clear. Society has to take an approach that prioritizes 1) walking and then 2) cycling followed by 3) electrified public transit and finally 4) electrified personal transportation (cars). \n \nICE vehicles have no place in this century. The quicker we can take them off the road the better. Implementing transportation plans takes time and needs to be done properly. While the planning is ongoing\, we need to accelerate the switch to EVs. \nOver 8\,000 new cars are sold in Guelph every year. Getting these car buyers to make the change to an EV gives us results now. Each purchase means that we cut four tonnes of climate change pollution per year. This approach buys us some time to keep pushing the envelope on transportation planning at the same time. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/womens-ev-night-2-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220209T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220209T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20220124T212932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220124T212932Z UID:5070-1644433200-1644438600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Talk as if Climate Change Matters DESCRIPTION:eMERGE hosts Katharine Hayhoe\, one of Time Magazine’s ‘100 Most Influential People’. \nCommunicating climate change to motivate action has been a challenge. \nThe scientific community continues to provide more evidence that we need to act now. This approach can however\, paralyze some into inaction. \nResearch has shown that there is a better way. \nKatharine Hayhoe will join us in sharing what social science teaches us on how to talk about climate change. Values\, ethics\, and compassion\, more than facts\, are the key to success. \n \nAbout Katharine Hayhoe \nKatharine Hayhoe is an accomplished atmospheric scientist who studies climate change and why it matters to us here and now. She is also a remarkable communicator who has received the National Center for Science Education’s Friend of the Planet award\, the American Geophysical Union’s Climate Communication Prize\, the Sierra Club’s Distinguished Service award\, and been named to a number of lists including Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People\, Foreign Policy’s 100 Leading Thinkers\, FORTUNE magazine’s World’s Greatest Leaders and the United Nations Champion of the Earth in Science and Innovation. \nHer writing has appeared in a broad range of outlets including the New York Times\, Wired\, O Magazine\, and Chatelaine. Her TED talk\, “The most important thing you can do to fight climate change: talk about it” has nearly 4 million views and her most recent book is “Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World\,” published by Simon & Schuster and available in Guelph at the Bookshelf. \nKatharine has served as lead author on the Second\, Third\, and Fourth National Climate Assessments. She also hosts and produces the PBS Digital Series\, Global Weirding\, and serves on advisory committees for a broad range of organizations including the Smithsonian Natural History Museum\, the Earth Science Women’s Network\, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. \nKatharine serves as Chief Scientist for The Nature Conservancy and she is also a Paul W. Horn Distinguished Professor and the Political Science Endowed Professor in Public Policy and Public Law at Texas Tech University. She has a B.Sc. in Physics from the University of Toronto and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science from the University of Illinois and has been awarded honorary doctorates from Colgate University and Victoria University at the University of Toronto. \nTo access Katharine’s books\, click here! \nhttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Saving-Us/Katharine-Hayhoe/9781982143831 \nTo get Katharine’s book from a local book store\,  visit this link  the Bookshelf. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/talk-as-if-climate-change-matters-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20211110T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20211110T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20211007T182446Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211007T182446Z UID:4987-1636570800-1636576200@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Salty Softeners Salty Rivers DESCRIPTION:  \n \nWe know that road salt is bad for our beloved Speed River. But what about that invisible source of salt in our basements? \nWater softeners can compete with volumes of road salt that we pour into our rivers. And while road salt use in Guelph is going down\, softener salt is actually going up! \n \nThe added salt is bad enough\, but these softeners also mean we use more water to operate them. All of this impacts our environment including climate change. \n Water softeners are seen by many as an almost necessary piece of household equipment in Guelph. They provide several real and perceived benefits\, but come with a few drawbacks. \nWhat are we to do? … Lots. \nLearn how you can cut your salt use by up to 60%\, benefit our rivers\, fight climate change and save money. \nWayne Brabazon\, from the Region of Waterloo\, will illustrate how softeners work and how they contribute to chloride (salt) pollution in our waterways. He’ll demonstrate different types of water softeners and conditioners available to soften efficiently while saving water\, salt and money. \nSteve Yessie\, City of Guelph Water Department\, will discuss the Guelph perspective of household softener use\, the benefits and challenges of water softeners\, as well as ways to reduce related water and salt use. \nSalty Softeners\, Salty Rivers\nWednesday \, Nov. 10\, 2021\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\n______________________________________________\nJoin us as we host:\n \nWayne Brabazon| Water Efficiency Technologist\, Region of Waterloo \nWayne has worked for the Region of Waterloo for 23 years in a range of water services positions. Currently he is the Region’s Water Efficiency Technologist and works extensively with commercial\, institutional and industrial (CII) business-sector water users. This role involves convincing businesses to move on\, and commit to\, water saving projects. CII water efficiency projects are varied and each project is dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Wayne’s technical knowledge to support the water efficiency position is based on an educational background in the sciences\, business and computer systems. \n \nSteve Yessie| Water Conservation Program Coordinator\, City of Guelph \nSteve Yessie has worked in the sustainability field for the past 7 years. In 2018\, he joined the Water Conservation and Efficiency team with the City of Guelph. In his role at the City Steve coordinates the Multi-Residential Water Audit and Water Sub-Meter Rebate programs. In addition to these programs he focuses much of his time toward community education. This finds Steve leading tours of the local Water Services facility and in front of classrooms at schools across the City discussing source protection\, conservation\, efficiency and best practices related to water. \n___________________________________________________________ \nThe sponsors of this event: URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/salty-softeners-salty-river/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20210928T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20210928T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210901T075503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210901T075503Z UID:4924-1632855600-1632861000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:2050 Is Too Late DESCRIPTION:1st target of 2030 is like telling a child in grade 1 they won’t be evaluated until grade 9 \nThe latest science showing the need for ‘climate action now’ couldn’t be clearer. And while the city has acknowledged that we are in a climate emergency\, our first climate target isn’t until 2030. That’s like telling a parent today that their child in grade 1 won’t be evaluated until they get to grade 9.\nGuelph just released its Sustainability Report on how we’re fighting climate change. Our city staff are working hard and it shows that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions went down in 2020. However\, the pandemic has had a profound impact on cutting emissions across the country. Will Guelph be able to sustain that drop and keep reducing emissions fast enough post-pandemic? \nThe city has two climate change targets for 2050: Net Zero Carbon (for the entire community) and 100% Renewable Energy (for the corporation of the City of Guelph). \nHere’s how we can do better. \n1- Develop mandatory interim climate change targets that fall within city council terms of office:\nWe need more accountability. Our first climate target of 45% doesn’t occur until 2030. While there are requirements for “reviews” every 5 years\, there are no specific targets associated with those reviews.\nThis all about accountability and the “reviews” don’t quite line up with the 4-year terms of city council. Having interim targets that land within Council terms will help focus our work and create more accountability – for all of us.\nIt will also gives us a much better method of understanding how we are – or aren’t -progressing in an emergency.\nThe City of Hamilton has already implemented 4 year targets. \n2- Entrench climate change action into the Official Plan review.\nThe current Official Plan – now undergoing a review – doesn’t reflect our current climate targets. It does include reference to the now outdated energy plan. All decisions that the city makes must include a ‘lens’ that ensures climate change is front and centre. \n3- Empower All City staff to bring their ideas forward to fight climate change. \nThis is about changing the culture. \nWe have great staff working for us in many different departments at the city. Who better to understand the challenges and opportunities available to fast-track fighting climate change efforts in their specific field of work? We can’t leave this to one small\, but committed\, office to do all the heavy lifting.\nEmpowering all city staff to find their voice and help fight climate change will give us a great leg up. \n4- Review the 2050 target date for Net Zero carbon and 100%RE. \nLike our Health Unit’s COVID vaccination efforts\, we believe that Guelph can be a front runner by going above and beyond these targets. As we see progress\, we must also re-evaluate this final target and bring it closer – much closer – to today.\nAs a community we need to battle climate change aggressively on all fronts. \nWill We able to meet our climate change targets? \nJoin us as we explore ways to meet our climate goals much sooner! \n2050 is Too Late \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nTuesday\, Sep 28\, 2021 \nClick here to register for 2050 is Too Late \n___________ \nBrought to you by: \n \nCitizens Climate Lobby\, Climate Justice Guelph\, Council of Canadians-Guelph Chapter\, eMERGE Guelph\, Extinction Rebellion Guelph\, Fridays for the Future\, Greenhouse Guelph\, Green New Deal Guelph\, Guelph Wellington Coalition for Social Justice\, Kairos Guelph\, OPIRG Guelph\, Transition Guelph\, Wellington Water Watchers\, Yorklands Green Hub URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/2050-is-too-late-2-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20210923T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20210923T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210827T045824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210827T045824Z UID:4920-1632423600-1632429000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Wanna be a Waterhero? DESCRIPTION:Guelph takes water conservation seriously \nWe have to. We’re the largest community in Canada relying on groundwater for our supply. Compared to other cities our wells take longer to replenish and are more vulnerable to overuse. That’s why the city created the Blue Built Home program: to motivate\, celebrate\, rebate and reward your water conservation efforts. \nOn average\, we use 167 Liters/person/ day in our homes. But we need to get down to 150 Liters . This policy target came about from extensive public participation\, by individuals and organizations. We’ve certainly come a long way from the 250 liters/person/day that we gobbled up in the early 1990’s. \nReaching this goal is easier than you might think. But don’t take our word for it. Check out how our friends Suzanne and Ernst Braendli have cut their water use down to just 79 Liters / person / day. (And yes they do shower and their home is spotless) \nWe have partnered with the city to get you started through our Home Tune-Up program. We’ll work with you to analyze your water use\, replace shower heads\, faucet aerators for free and then make recommendations including replacing toilets and even larger appliances like dishwashers and your washing machine. And then for the “super heroes” out there\, how about rain water harvesting? \nAchieving Blue Built Home certification will no doubt reduce your monthly water bill and provide even greater benefits to the environment. And you’ll also have bragging rights. \nLearn how you can certify your home with the Blue Built Home program and have access to rebates up to $2\,000. \nJoin us as we explore the options for water saving and help you build your plan to become a water hero: \nWanna be a Water Hero? \nThursday \, September 23\, 2021 \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/wanna-be-a-waterhero/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20210919T084500 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20210919T150000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210528T215910Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210528T215910Z UID:4863-1632041100-1632063600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Intro to CanBike DESCRIPTION:Riding your bike in traffic can be daunting. Learn how to gain confidence and feel more comfortable on the road. \nWe know that biking is better than driving when it comes to the environment and our health. But many of us just don’t feel safe on the road. That’s one of the most common reasons we use for not cycling. We just don’t feel safe – especially on streets. \n Meanwhile\, the pandemic has provided the opportunity for more people than ever to dust off their bikes and ride. \nThis course is all about building confidence. Confidence that comes from better cycling skills that enable you to make more informed decisions on where and when to ride. \nBased on the national CanBike program this one-day cycling class for adults will build on the technical basics of riding and traffic dynamics to help you approach biking from a defensive riding approach. It includes a classroom session\, skills development in a parking lot and finally on-road riding. \nMany of you will know this program as an integral part of the cycling curriculum offered by CELP\, Headwaters and TERRA environmental High School programs in Guelph. Your instructor has been teaching CanBike programs for over 20 years to more than a thousand people including police officers\, adults\, high school students and children. \n COVID Update \n We will ensure that all COVID measures and precautions are followed to help ensure the health and safety of our participants and the community. Your eMERGE instructor is now fully vaccinated and will be tested for COVID 24 hours ahead. We will be adhering to social distancing rule of 2 metres (6.5 feet) during this course. \nThe day before the event\, you will be asked to fill out a COVID-19 Screening form (sample). \n—————————— \nIntro to CanBike \nOn Road session \n 08:45am – 3:00 pm Sunday\, September 19\, 2021 \nLocation – close to downtown Guelph (final location to be confirmed) \nIntro to CanBike will help you learn new skills\, gain confidence and take more control. A real ‘must’ for anyone that wants to ride more confidently in the city and in traffic. \nClass size is limited to only 10 students. \nThe cost is $80 plus Eventbrite fees and HST. The instructor will contact you to provide further information and necessary prep work to be completed prior to the class. We are considering offering more classes based on demonstrated demand. \n———- \nA note about the cost: eMERGE always attempts to make it’s programs financially accessible to those that may not be able to afford it. However\, given that we have to limit the number of people in this class due to COVID\, we are unable to offer a reduced rate at this time. If we can provide larger classes in the future\, we will attempt to once again offer this opportunity. We appreciate your understanding. \n \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by helping people reduce energy and water use. \nPromoting smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency helps Guelph build a road map to achieve 100% renewable energy decades before 2050. This has the added benefit of a healthier community and a more resilient local economy. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/4863/ LOCATION:downtown Guelph\, Guelph\, Ontario\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20210602T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20210602T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210503T185312Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210503T185312Z UID:4836-1622660400-1622665800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Invest... as if Climate Change Matters DESCRIPTION:How to put our money where our earth is\nMoney can change our lives and the environment. For better or worse\, whether we have any or none at all. \nProfiting from fossil fuels has poured more fuel on the fire of climate change. But now\, even large investors are recognizing that a fundamental shift toward a low-carbon economy is taking place. They are recognizing the environmental\, social and financial benefits of fossil fuel divestment. At the same time more funds are being re-directed towards improving our environment and communities. Ultimately\, they are ‘impact investing’ for multiple financial\, social and environmental goals. \nBut this massive change didn’t begin in the board rooms of large corporations. Instead grass roots organizations have turned it into a worldwide movement. Right here\, students at the University of Guelph launched a multi-year campaign that motivated their school to create a divestment strategy for its $300 million endowment fund. The students had little money to speak of\, weren’t investors\, but made their voices heard in a way that had a profound impact on the University for decades to come. \nJoin us as we explore how to: \nInvest as if Climate Change Matters \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nWednesday\, June 02\, 2021 \n______________ \nWe plan to: \n• Learn how you can affect change with your pension plan or other large investors from our friends at Shift Action \n• And if you have your own investments; learn how you can personally “Invest as if climate change matters” \nJoin us as we explore ways to build stronger resilient community while investing on the environment! \n_________________________ \n \nAdam is a climate change expert with extensive domestic and international experience in policy\, energy and finance\, as well as campaign design and execution. He has a lifelong commitment to supporting the transition to a zero carbon economy in Canada. At Shift\, he works with wide-ranging stakeholders to bring international climate leadership into Canada’s financial sector. Previously\, Adam was Senior Advisor to Oil Change International and manager of Environmental Defence Canada’s Climate & Energy program. Adam has advised governments\, communicated through national and international media\, and published numerous reports focused on various aspects of the low carbon transition. Adam and his family have recently returned to Toronto after living in the UK. \n \nTim Nash is the founder of Good Investing and blogs as The Sustainable Economist. As an expert on socially responsible investing\, impact investing\, and the green economy\, he is regularly featured in publications such as CBC’s The National\, BNN Bloomberg’s Market Call\, and the Globe and Mail. He earned his BA in Economics from Dalhousie University (Canada) and his Master’s in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability from the Blekinge Institute of Technology (Sweden). He is the lead researcher for Ethical Market’s Green Transition Scoreboard® research report\, which details more than $10.3 trillion of private investments in the global green economy. \n________________________________________ \nThe co-sponsors of this event include: \n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/invest-as-if-climate-change-matters/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210304T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210304T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210211T024333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210211T024333Z UID:4288-1614884400-1614889800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:2021 Climate Change Hero DESCRIPTION:Dr. Pierre Fogal\, eMERGE Climate Change Hero \nA 6\,000 kilometer commute is not what comes to mind when we think of fighting climate change. But that’s exactly what Dr. Pierre Fogal does when he travels from Guelph to his office in Eureka\, Nunavut. Situated on Ellesmere Island\, he leads a team of researchers at the Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL). \nDr. Fogal is the eMERGE Climate Change Hero of 2021. \nWhile Pierre’s work might be invisible to many people in Guelph\, his research in the high arctic has been crucial to the science of climate change for scientists around the world. Most years\, he spends at least three months at his laboratory. COVID has made it difficult for him over the last year. But rest assured that massive volumes of climate data are being uploaded to the internet regularly. However\, the remoteness of Eureka means that the PEARL team also has to find sufficient funding to keep the centre running. It’s no surprise that transportation and energy costs can be quite staggering\, but imagine a yearly internet bill of $84\,000. \nMuch of what we take for granted in Guelph can be difficult to come by in Eureka. Imagine doing your job without seeing sunlight for months. Then\, on February 20th seeing a mere hour and 14 minutes of daylight for the first time since the previous October. \nMake no mistake\, the work done by Pierre and the PEARL team is crucial in understanding the impacts we’re having on climate change. \nJoin us – and our Making Box partners – as we celebrate the work of Dr. Pierre Fogal: \neMERGE Climate Change Hero \nThursday \, March 4\, 2021 \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nRegister on Eventbrite – click here. \n__________________________________________________________ \n \nDr. Pierre Fogal | Site Manager at the PEARL Laboratory and Senior Research Associate at Department of Physics\, University of Toronto \nMore about Pierre:\nPierre Fogal was born and raised in Guelph. He grew up “in the country” on the edge of the east end of Guelph and attended Bishop MacDonell High School back when it was still on the hill. He then went on to receive an undergraduate degree in Physics from the University of Waterloo followed by graduate work at the University of Denver. It was during that time that he met and married Theresa\, his wife of 27 years. They have 3 children\, Alexander\, Andre and Serena. Pierre’s field of research is atmospheric composition determined through infrared spectroscopic study. He has done this using spectrometers located on aircraft\, stratospheric balloons\, and the ground. Much of his ground-based work has occurred in the Arctic and Antarctic. In 2004 he was recruited to help with the establishment of the Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL) located at 80N on Ellesmere Island\, NU. He has been the PEARL Site Manager since then. Previous to the COVID-19 pandemic he typically spent 3 months of the year in the Canadian High Arctic. Pierre is also a founding board member of the Guelph Renewable Energy Coop. \nRead a great feature article on Pierre from Grand Magazine click here! \n____________________________________________________________ \nMore About PEARL:\nPEARL is a member site of both the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition (NDACC) Change and the Total Column Carbon Observing Network (TCCON). In both networks\, spectroscopic data is analyzed to provide the amount and sometimes the distribution of a trace gas in the atmosphere. TCCON provides measurements of carbon dioxide and methane. NDACC of several molecules\, all of them important in atmospheric processes such as ozone destruction and atmospheric temperature. The polar regions are often described as a “canary in a coal mine” as changes there are more easily discerned than in mid-latitudes where most atmospheric measurements are carried out. PEARL is also an ideal site for carrying out the satellite validation measurements needed to track the performance of satellite instruments. Every year in late February\, PEARL hosts a campaign to validate the instruments of the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment on the Canadian SciSat launched in 2003\, and for the Canadian OSIRIS instrument on the Swedish Odin satellite launched in 2001. \nTo learn even more about PEARL\, please visit http://www.candac.ca \n________________________________________ \nThe sponsors of this event: \nThe Making Box & Barry Cullen \n \n________________________________ \n \n \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by helping people reduce energy and water use. \nPromoting smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency helps Guelph build a road map to achieve 100% renewable energy long before 2050. This has the added benefit of a healthier community and a more resilient local economy. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/2021-climate-change-hero/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20210204T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20210204T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20210115T214218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210115T214218Z UID:4260-1612465200-1612470600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Are EVs Bad? for the environment and social justice DESCRIPTION:Many people understand that EVs can fulfill their driving requirements. But there still are concerns over the environmental and social justice implications of ditching their internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle for an EV. \nA new University of Guelph study (Benefits and Barriers to Electric Vehicle Adoption in the City of Guelph) highlights many of the common concerns like range\, availability and price\, that can be relatively easily addressed. However\, it also shows that many early environmental adopters haven’t seen adequate information on the environmental and social justice implications to make the move to an EV. \nJoin us as we host Karen Nelson from the University of Guelph and Paul Gipe\, Renewable Energy Analyst from Wind Works in California for: \nAre EVs Bad? \nThursday \, Feb. 4\, 2021 \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \n______________________________________ \n \nPaul Gipe | Renewable Energy Analyst\, Wind Works \nEven as an American living in southern California Paul Gipe has had a profound impact on our lives in Ontario. He was one of the architects behind Ontario’s Feed-in-Tariffs (FIT) and the Green Energy and Economy Act (GEAA). Implemented in 2009\, this law quickly accelerated the development of wind and solar projects throughout the province while precipitating a significant drop in the cost of these systems. The GEAA ultimately had an impact on renewable energy implementation throughout North America. While the Act was later repealed by the current government\, the positive impact that it has had on changing the way we produce\, distribute and use energy has overwhelmingly altered our energy system. \nPaul has written extensively about these issues for the past four decades. His most recent book\, Wind Energy for the Rest of Us\, is his seventh book on wind energy. \nIn 2011 he was asked to test drive GM’s new Chevy Volt through the wind farms of the Tehachapi Pass in California. He has been writing\, researching and speaking about electric vehicles ever since. Gipe has explored Southern California in a limited-range Nissan Leaf\, a range-extended Chevy Volt\, and a Chevy Bolt. He’s currently on his second Bolt\, a 2020 model with over 400 km range. \nHis Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Vehicles now has some 60 entries. \nPaul Gipe is an author\, advocate\, and analyst on renewable energy and electric vehicles. \n___________________________________ \n \nKaren Nelson | Research Shop Coordinator\, University of Guelph \nKaren is the Research Shop Coordinator at the Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI) at the University of Guelph. She trains and manages graduate students engaged in community engaged research projects with local community partners. Over the past 13 years\, Karen has worked in both academic and community settings on research related to community health\, housing\, economic and rural development\, and social services. \n———— \nPatricia Butt | Research Assistant\, University of Guelph \nPatricia is a MSc student in the Rural Planning and Development program in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph. She has worked with the Research Shop at the Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI) as a Research Assistant since September 2019. Patricia is inspired by transdisciplinary collaboration and particularly interested in community engaged\, participatory approaches to research. She is dedicated to contributing to knowledge mobilization and the development of more just\, sustainable communities through the various projects she is involved with\, both on and off campus. \n____________________________________________________________ \nThe sponsors of this event: \n \n \nThe University of Guelph Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI) brings together community and campus skills and resources in order to advance community-identified research goals. They work in collaboration\, honour diverse forms of knowledge\, and leverage university resources for community benefit. \n____________________________________________________________ \n \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by engaging\, and equipping Guelphites to transition to a 100% renewable energy (100RE) economy. It uses the narrative of achieving 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 as a positive goal to win this battle. This is done primarily by helping people reduce energy and water use through an individual residential focus along with community events\, outreach and engagement that promote smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency to help Guelph build a road map to beat climate change and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/are-evs-bad-for-the-environment-and-social-justice/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20201208T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20201208T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20201125T011500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20201125T011500Z UID:4088-1607454000-1607459400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Food Fight DESCRIPTION:  \n \nIt’s complicated\, but let us explain. \nTalking about food and climate change in the same conversation has the distinct possibility of getting you into … well… uhm…ah… shall we say in a little bit of controversy. \nWhat we eat is always loaded with a lot of familial warmth\, emotion and of course tension. The conversation can quickly evolve into a debate about health\, cost\, agriculture\, economics\, science\, personal opinion\, maybe even the US election and (insert a deep breath here) of course taste. \nGuess we didn’t mention climate change eh. \nWithout getting too preachy here at all (maybe just a tiny bit\, but hear us out because we promise this will be fun!) we all know that eating a more local\, plant based diet that wastes less food will be better to fight climate change. \nBut it BETTER TASTE REALLY GOOD! \nSo how does this work anyway? \n1. Register for the Food Fight (cost of the great food is extra – see 2. below) \n2. We encourage you to Order Take-Out (but not mandatory) from the local downtown Food Fight restaurants before Dec 8. \n\nCadence – Mac & Cheese w/ Broccoli (519) 265-8225\nSip Club – Hot & Sour Soup (519) 265.1964\nCornerstone – Tempeh Reubin (519) 827-0145\n\n3. Join the Webinar 7:00pm December 8 – where you judge the winner of the eMERGE Food Fight! \nHow better to decide what tastes good than to have a Food Fight? \nJoin us as we host a Food Fight with three Downtown Guelph chefs that fight to resolve: \nMy Dish Tastes Way Better than Yours!\n_________________________________________________________ \nIntroducing your Food Fighters:\n \nSydney Coles| The Cornerstone \nYou should always use the right tools for the job\, right? Sydney does it handily with these kitchen thingees in her hands that she’s using to try to intimidate her opponents. Apparently her art school degree\, yoga and her cat are supposed to show us how badass she can be – and that she will stop at nothing to win this Food Fight. Oh ya\, her extensive background as a vegan cook is supposed to help too. \n___________________________________________________________ \n \nNevada Jeansonne| Cadence \nWow\, that look really makes us scared. The others should be shaking in their boots! Nevada has been all plant based\, all the time\, for a very long time. From Nova Scotia to Guelph\, she’s been sharing that passion as a chef and serious baker. We’re expecting her to bring a guitar\, bike and drawing materials to the food fight. But we’re not quite sure why. Regardless\, we know that ‘look’ already gives her a head start on the others! (and in case you’re wondering\, yes Nevada wears a mask appropriately\, at appropriate places and appropriate times) \n_____________________________________________________________ \n \nDewey| Sip Club \n We have it on good authority that Dewey’s grade four teacher told him to“wipe that smirk off your face” … many times. It didn’t work then and it probably won’t work now. As the only man in the fight he has his work cutout for himself. Dewey seems to think that his post secondary education\, experience at dozens of restaurants\, hotels (including the Fairmont chain – well la-dee-da for him)\, a career as a broadcaster and owning restaurants means he’s gonna win this Food Fight. Sorry Dewey\, we’ll be the judge of that! \n____________________________________________________________ \n \nMarty Williams| Downtown Guelph \nEvery fight needs a referee and ours includes none other than the very trendy Marty Williams\, Esquire\, Executive Director of Downtown Guelph. Here he can be seen outside his office\, tastefully showing off grey shorts (in November – can you believe it)with a partially buttoned brown jacket framing a classy look at his red white and black lumberjack shirt. Not only does he ‘dress for success’\, but he can also keep our Food Fighters in check. He will have prime authority to punish anyone who attempts to go too far. He’ll hit the mute button on them\, or even worse\, turn off their video! \n__________________________________________________ \nYour Homework Assignment: Due December 8th \nTaste the wonderful Food Fight dishes from these restaurants so that you can help us determine which dish tastes best. (Ordering takeout makes the most sense during the pandemic) \n– Cornerstone \n– Cadence \n– Sip Club \n Don’t even think of saying: “the dog ate my homework”! \nCOMING SOON: Dessert made by 10c kitchen\, our Celebrity Taste Testers and the e-Bike delivery service that dropped off the food. \n__________________________________________________ \n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/food-fight-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20201126T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20201126T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20201026T224549Z LAST-MODIFIED:20201026T224549Z UID:4024-1606417200-1606422600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Climate\, Covid and Kids' Health in Marginalized Communities- POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:A Message from eMERGE Guelph: \nWith regrets\, we are postponing Climate\, COVID and Health of Kids in Marginalized Communities for this Thursday\, November 26…Unfortunately\, due to low registration numbers\, we made this decision.\n\nSince COVID we’ve moved all of our programming online.  We really want to move on with this event\, but have had limited registrations to date. In comparison we had over 100 registrants with some of our recent events. Our goal is to make this health event just as successful. . For this one we’ve only been able to garner 6 registrations.  Could it be that people have ‘covid fatigue’? We don’t know. ONLY Guessing here!eMERGE believes that communicating climate change through a ‘health’ lens can be very effective at motivating climate action. Our goal is to have many more early environmental adopters – like you – engaged in this event. \n\nWe will refund you for your order shortly and we are working on rescheduling for the new year and will keep you informed as things progress.\n\nApologies once again and thank you for your understanding!eMERGE Team \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPublic health experts raise alarm at climate risks to children’s health in marginalized communities \nMany children in Canada live with inequities that make them more vulnerable to climate change. Our most marginalized populations are especially susceptible to climate-related physical and mental health impacts such as asthma\, heat illness\, anxiety and depression. And children from the lowest income neighborhoods in Canada are hospitalized for asthma 1.5 times more than those from the highest income neighborhoods. \nPublic health experts also know that the risk isn’t equal across and within communities. \nNo child should have to suffer these negative health impacts from climate change and the inequities that put them at even greater risk. Solutions to address this already exist. \nThe Ontario Public health Association (OPHA) is working with diverse leaders and organizations to bring collective experiences\, knowledge\, and ideas to tackle the challenge of climate change and inequity. Recognizing that inequities such as poverty and racial discrimination\, that put marginalized communities at greater COVID-19 risk\, are the same inequities that put them at greater climate risk\, the Make It Better campaign is an opportunity to work on solutions to very important public health crises – climate change\, health inequity and the COVID-19 pandemic. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nJoin us as we host:\nClimate\, COVID and Kids’ Health in Marginalized Communities\nThursday \, Nov. 26\, 2020\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\n \nPegeen Walsh| Executive Director\, Ontario Public Health Association \nPegeen is the Executive Director for the Ontario Public Health Association. Her role requires supporting and facilitating advocacy efforts in public health and capacity building and knowledge transfer and exchange initiatives within the province and beyond. \nPrior to OPHA\, Pegeen has led the design and delivery of a wide range of programs\, policies\, partnerships\, and research that have supported individual and community health and well-being. As Ontario Regional Director with Health Canada\, the Public Health Agency of Canada and Director at the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion\, she oversaw various health initiatives ranging from early child development\, healthy eating\, and tobacco control\, healthy communities to injury\, alcohol abuse and 2008 OPHS Standards. \n As Director of Public Policy at YMCA Canada\, she developed government relations training and strategies. Just prior to joining OPHA\, Pegeen was a Research Director at the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships responsible implementing research strategy to advance knowledge and best practices. Pegeen is also a Board member at Family Services Toronto\, serving as chair of its Governance Committee. She holds a BA degree from University of Waterloo in Political Science. \n_____________________________________________________________ \nThe sponsors of this event: \n \n \n_____________________________________________________________ \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by engaging\, and equipping Guelphites to transition to a 100% renewable energy (100RE) economy. It uses the narrative of achieving 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 as a positive goal to win this battle. This is done primarily by helping people reduce energy and water use through an individual residential focus along with community events\, outreach and engagement that promote smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency to help Guelph build a road map to beat climate change and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. \n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/climate-covid-and-kids-health-in-marginalized-communities/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20201118T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20201118T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20201026T211213Z LAST-MODIFIED:20201026T211213Z UID:4011-1605726000-1605731400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Salty Softeners\, Salty Rivers DESCRIPTION:  \n \n  \nWe all know that road salt is bad for our beloved Speed River. But what about that seemingly invisible source in our basements? \nWater softeners can compete with volumes of road salt that we pour into our rivers. The added salt is bad enough\, but these softeners also mean we use more water to operate them. All of this impacts our environment including climate change. \nWater softeners are seen by many as an almost necessary piece of household equipment in Guelph. They provide several real and perceived benefits\, but come with a few drawbacks. \nWhat are we to do? … Lots. \nLearn how you can cut your salt use by up to 60%\, benefit our rivers\, fight climate change and save money \nSteve Gombos\, from the Region of Waterloo\, will illustrate how softeners work\, how softeners contribute to chloride pollution in Region of Waterloo waterways\, show us different types of smart water softeners and conditioners available to homeowners and the smart way to soften efficiently to save water\, salt and money. \nSteve Yessie\, City of Guelph Water Department\, will discuss the Guelph perspective of household softener use\, the benefits and challenges of water softeners\, as wells as ways to reduce related water and salt use. \nSalty Softeners\, Salty Rivers\nWednesday \, Nov. 18\, 2020\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\n  \nOur presenters will lead a discussion on reasons for softening your water\, types of water softeners\, salt-saving alternatives\, and answer your questions. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nJoin us as we host:\n \n\nSteve Gombos| Manager of Water Efficiency\, Region of Waterloo \nSteve Gombos helps conserve the Region’s vital drinking water for the future\, while also helping people reduce water consumption today. Steve has served on the Board of Directors for the Alliance for Water Efficiency\, and as Chair of the Ontario Water Works Association Water Efficiency Committee. Steve has authored numerous articles for trade publications related to water efficiency\, waste management and the environment. He frequently provides topical presentations to international\, national and local audiences. \n\n\n\nSteve Yessie| Water Conservation Program Coordinator\, City of Guelph \nSteve Yessie has worked in the sustainability field for the past 7 years. In 2018 he joined the Water Conservation and Efficiency team with the City of Guelph. In his role at the City Steve coordinates the Multi-Residential Water Audit and Water Sub-Meter Rebate programs. In addition to these programs he focuses much of his time toward community education. This finds Steve leading tours of the local Water Services facility and in front of classrooms at schools across the City discussing source protection\, conservation\, efficiency and best practices related to water. \nThe sponsors of this event: \n \n \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by engaging\, and equipping Guelphites to transition to a 100% renewable energy (100RE) economy. It uses the narrative of achieving 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 as a positive goal to win this battle. This is done primarily by helping people reduce energy and water use through an individual residential focus along with community events\, outreach and engagement that promote smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency to help Guelph build a road map to beat climate change and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. \n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/salty-softeners-salty-rivers/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20201022T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20201022T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200924T230830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200924T230830Z UID:3937-1603393200-1603398600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Clearing the Air DESCRIPTION:  \n \nCan we save lives with electric vehicles? And results of the Guelph Attitudes on EVs Survey \nAir pollution causes more than 3\,000 premature deaths every year in the GTHA – and that affects Guelph\, too. One of the biggest sources of this air pollution is vehicle traffic. \nThis estimate is based on exposure to 3 pollutants – fine particulate matter (PM2.5)\, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and Ozone (O3). Air pollution is linked to lung cancer\, respiratory conditions like asthma\, allergies and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases\, and cardiovascular conditions like angina\, heart attack\, hypertension and stroke. \nClearing the Air: How Electric Vehicles And Cleaner Trucks Can Reduce Pollution\, Improve Health And Save Lives \nAnd what about Guelph? We can learn a lot from this report and look at it with the lens of another new study by the University of Guelph – CESI (Community Engaged Scholarship Institute) with eMERGE: ‘Guelph Attitudes on EVs’. \nWhat does a shift to cleaner vehicles look like? \nFive scenarios in the report compare the health benefits of reducing traffic pollution from cars and SUVs\, trucks\, and transit buses. Each scenario explores a specific mix of cleaner vehicles\, and how this shift impacts air pollution\, health\, and greenhouse gas emissions in the region. \nClearing the Air \nThursday \, Oct. 22\, 2020\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\neMERGE Guelph was honoured to be part of the review committee on Clearing the Air by the Ontario Public Health Association (OPHA) Environmental Defence Canada and the University of Toronto. \nWe are also grateful for the expertise and guidance by CESI on the Guelph Attitudes on EVs. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nJoin us as we host:\n \nHelen Doyle| BSc\, CPHI(C)\, Ontario Public Health Association( OPHA) \nHelen Doyle is chair of the Ontario Public Health Association’s (OPHA) Environmental Health Work Group\, working with public health partners to promote and advocate for action on environmental health issues including: climate change\, air quality\, water quality\, housing\, built and natural environments and children’s environmental health. She is a member of the OPHA Board of Directors. Helen is also on the Board of Directors for the Windfall Ecology Centre\, a Green Communities Canada non-profit organization that delivers environmental programs and services in York Region and Toronto. Helen is a certified Public Health Inspector and retired from York Region Public Health in 2018 following a very rewarding and exciting 30 year career in environmental health and public health management. \nAND \n \nLaura Minet | Ph.D.\, Post Doctoral Fellow at University of Toronto \nLaura is a PhD Candidate in Transportation Engineering at the University of Toronto (UofT) and a Postdoctoral Fellow in Civil Engineering and Earth Sciences at UofT. passionate by the issues related to the environment. She works on a variety of projects ranging from the presence of chemical compounds in food packaging to the impacts of traffic emissions on urban air quality\, population exposure and health. She is thrilled to be part of the The Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program (DEEP) and is excited to share her passion for science and engineering. In her spare time\, Laura loves hiking\, camping and traveling! \n\nThe sponsors of this event: \n \n \nThe University of Guelph Community Engaged Scholarship Institute (CESI) brings together community and campus skills and resources in order to advance community-identified research goals. They work in collaboration\, honour diverse forms of knowledge\, and leverage university resources for community benefit. \n________________________________ \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by engaging\, and equipping Guelphites to transition to a 100% renewable energy (100RE) economy. It uses the narrative of achieving 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 as a positive goal to win this battle. This is done primarily by helping people reduce energy and water use through an individual residential focus along with community events\, outreach and engagement that promote smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency to help Guelph build a road map to beat climate change and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/clearing-the-air-2-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20201007T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20201007T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200922T191354Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200922T191354Z UID:3897-1602097200-1602102600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Environmental Racism DESCRIPTION:  \n \nEnvironmental Racism\nEnvironmental racism in Canada and the actions needed to address the inequalities. \n\nCanada has an environmental racism problem that is both blatant and systemic. Environmental degradation and the impacts of climate change have and will be felt the strongest by Indigenous and Black communities across Canada. \nOne of the most egregious cases is where a pulp and paper mill dumped toxic effluent directly into Boat Harbour\, on the Pictou Landing First Nation in Nova Scotia for over 50 years. Dr. Ingrid Waldron – renowned author\, professor\, researcher\, and advocate – will join eMERGE to discuss environmental racism in Canada and what is necessary to create lasting\, positive\, and equitable change. She will be joined by Guelph Black Heritage Society\, Executive Director\, Kween. Dr. Waldron and Kween will discuss Boat Harbour while looking at the issue of racism locally – environmental and otherwise. \nDr. Waldron’s book: There’s Something in the Water captured the attention of actor Ellen Page who produced a documentary about environmental racism that was featured at TIFF and is now available on Netflix. \nThe Book: There’s Something in the Water \nThe Film Trailer: There’s Something in the Water (now available on Netflix) \nJoin us as we host Dr. Ingrid Waldron and Kween for: \n\nEnvironmental Racism \nDr. Ingrid Waldron \, Ph.D.\, Associate Professor\, Faculty of Health\, Dalhousie University \n7:00 PM Wednesday\, Oct 7 \nResources\nThe Book: There’s Something in the Water \nThe Film Trailer: There’s Something in the Water (now available on Netflix) \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nAbout our speakers:\n \nDr. Ingrid Waldron| Ph.D.\, Associate Professor\, Faculty of Health\, Dalhousie University \nDr. Ingrid Waldron is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health at Dalhousie University\, the Director of the Environmental Noxiousness\, Racial Inequities & Community Health Project (The ENRICH Project) and the Flagship Co-Lead of the Improving the Health of People of African Descent. Her research\, teaching\, community leadership and advocacy work are examining and addressing the health and mental health impacts of structural inequalities within the environment\, public infrastructure\, health and mental health care\, and child welfare in Black\, Indigenous\, immigrant\, and refugee communities. \nAs the Director of the ENRICH Project over the last 8 years\, Dr. Waldron has been investigating the socio-economic\, political\, and health effects of environmental racism in Mi’kmaq and African Nova Scotian communities. The ENRICH Project formed the basis to Dr. Waldron’s first book There’s Something in the Water: Environmental Racism in Indigenous and Black Communities\, which received the 2020 Society for Socialist Studies Errol Sharpe Book Prize and the 2019 Atlantic Book Award for Scholarly Writing. \nThe 2020 Netflix documentary There’s Something in the Water is based on Dr. Waldron’s book and was co-produced by Waldron\, actress Ellen Page\, Ian Daniel\, and Julia Sanderson\, and co-directed by Page and Daniel. \nDr. Waldron is currently developing the first national anti-environmental racism coalition that will bring together partners from multiple sectors to address and advocate around environmental racism\, climate change\, health inequities\, and other social inequalities in Canada. \nFor more information on the work of Dr. Waldron\, follow these links: \n\nAssociate Professor\, School of Nursing\, Faculty of Health\, Dalhousie University.\nDr. Ingrid Waldron on LinkedIn \nDirector\, The Environmental Noxiousness\, Racial Inequities & Community Health Project (The ENRICH Project)\nHealthy Populations Institute Flagship Project Co-Lead\, Improving the Health Outcomes of People of African Descent \n\n\n \nKween| Executive Director\, Guelph Black Heritage Society \nWithin the BIPOC (Black\, Indegenious and Person of Colour) community in Guelph\, Kween advocates for the rights of African and Caribbean people as Executive Director for Guelph Black Heritage Society and works closely on anti-racism training\, social justice and policy change. She was the leader of Guelph’s June 6th BLM Protest and uses her platform to educate her community and elected officials. Dedicated to Carnival\, helping promote black excellence through Caribana while giving her time back to the high schools during Black History Month. \nKween is a dance teacher\, business owner\, cannabis educator and activist. She grew up in Guelph attending the University of Guelph. She then migrated to Toronto graduating as Valedictorian from the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts. She now owns two businesses: The Heels Academy and The Kween Company\, teaches Soca/Dancehall and Afro at the University of Guelph and is the team coordinator and choreographer for The Guelph Nighthawks Flight Crew. She is honoured to hold an artistic residency for 2020/2021 with Guelph Dance to expand her creative ideas for the Black Community through dance. \nShe works actively with AHLOT on the Cannabis Curation Committee and Lyte Clinic as a Patient Educator and additionally gives back through her cannabis advocacy for the BIPOC community. \nAnd\n \nBruce Weaver| Retired Teacher \nBruce Weaver is a retired elementary school teacher. He and his wife have lived in Guelph since 1983.  Bruce has been active in indigenous circles since his discovery of his native heritage about 10 years ago.  He currently facilitates a men’s circle\, is a fire keeper for the community and is a member of Seven Generations Forward\, as well as working with the Guelph Public Library to develop stronger relations with the local indigenous community. For the last 4 years\, Bruce has facilitated the Kairos Blanket Exercise with local school boards\, Faith groups and the University of Guelph and Ryerson University.  Bruce is an active member of Nature Guelph and a keen birder. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nOur Sponsors\n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n \n  \n \n_______________________ \nAbout eMERGE\neMERGE Guelph Sustainability fights climate change to build a healthier society. It does this by engaging\, and equipping Guelphites to transition to a 100% renewable energy (100RE) economy. It uses the narrative of achieving 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 as a positive goal to win this battle. This is done primarily by helping people reduce energy and water use through an individual residential focus along with community events\, outreach and engagement that promote smart behavior\, policy and improved efficiency to help Guelph build a road map to beat climate change and achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/environmental-racism/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200930T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200930T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200911T224504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200911T224504Z UID:3859-1601492400-1601497800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Ontario: undermining Guelph's Climate Goals DESCRIPTION:  \n \n  \nOntario: undermining Guelph’s Climate Goals \nExamining the alternatives \nWe need a Guelph City Council resolution. \nOntario’s proposed gas plants expansion – and associated greenhouse gas emissions- will undermine Guelph’s climate change goals. It will also significantly reverse the pollution reductions achieved by shutting down coal plants. There are alternatives. \nIn light of the climate emergency acknowledged by Guelph City Council\, groups in Guelph (see list below) are joining forces with organizations across Ontario to demand the province reduce\, not increase\, fossil fuel generated power. We urge City Council to pass a resolution\, compatible with our emission reduction goals and with Council’s previous resolution supporting a phase-out of coal-generated electricity. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nJoin us as we host Jack Gibbons from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance. \nThis webinar will shed a light on how Guelph can once again lead in fighting climate change. Our city was at the forefront during the coal phase out. Now we need to do the same with gas plants. \nJack Gibbons from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance\, will draw a road map on how we can exploit new alternative cost effective clean energy sources that will generate economic and social wealth. He will advocate how transitioning away from fossil fuels to a renewable energy economy has clear benefits for people and natural ecosystems. We have an opportunity to create a more prosperous\, healthy and equitable society. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nAbout Our Speaker\n \nJack Gibbons| Chair of the Ontario Air Alliance\nJack Gibbons is Chair of the Ontario Clean Air Alliance. Jack has worked on energy and environmental issues in Ontario for more than 40 years. His previous positions include: Economist\, Energy Probe; Project Manager\, Ontario Energy Board; Senior Economic Advisor\, Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy; and Commissioner\, Toronto Hydro. \nJack has studied economics at the University of Toronto (B.A.)\, Queen’s University (M.A.) and the University of British Columbia. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nOrganizations in support of the City of Guelph taking bold action against more climate change pollution are listed below. \n\nCouncil of Canadians-Guelph Chapter\neMERGE Guelph\nExtinction Rebellion Guelph\nGuelph Green New Deal\nGuelph Wellington Social Justice Coalition\nKAIROS Guelph\nOntario Clean Air Alliance\nTransition Guelph\nWellington Water Watchers\n\n___________________________________ URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/ontario-undermining-guelphs-climate-goals/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200915T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200923T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200901T203318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200901T203318Z UID:3841-1600196400-1600893000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:It's not enough: How successful communities fight Climate Change DESCRIPTION:  \n \n  \nThe shock of the COVID-19 pandemic provides an excellent opportunity to transition to low-carbon\, energy efficient communities through the use of stimulus funding and legislation.\nWell over 400 communities in Canada\, and over 50 in Ontario\, have completed Community Energy Plans. Many of them are now demonstrating continuing implementation efforts driven by aggressive GHG (greenhouse gas) and energy efficiency targets coupled with community demands for climate emergency declarations. \nIn two separate webinars we will look at; what other successful Ontario communities are doing and then explore best practices from around the world. We are honoured to have two leading experts in this field –  Rob Kerr and Dr. Karen Farbridge – as our guests. \n  \nRegistration is necessary for attending these events: you have to register for each event separately by visiting the corresponding registration links: \n\nWhat Other Ontario Cities Are Doing – Rob Kerr – Sep 15 \,2020 @7:00 PM\nCanadian and Global Best Practices – Dr. Karen Farbridge – Sep 23 \,2020 @7:00 PM\n\n  \nWhat Other Ontario Cities Are Doing – Rob Kerr\n7:00 PM on Tuesday Sep 15 \,2020 \nThis webinar will look at what other successful Ontario communities are doing to drive climate and energy action. Rob will explore how they are establishing the building blocks necessary to achieve the benefits of reaching ambitious climate targets. \nCanadian and Global Best Practices – Dr. Karen Farbridge\n7:00 PM on Wednesday Sep 23\, 2020 \nDr. Farbridge will provide insight into the best practices that have emerged over the last decade of community energy planning in Canada and globally and how they are accelerating the transition to a low-carbon and energy efficient economies. \n \n\nAbout Our Speakers\nRob Kerr\nRob’s 40-year career focuses on transitioning society to a low carbon economy while reducing the impacts of climate change. He does this through policy development and implementation of projects and programs in the municipal and community space. \nTo get there\, he wears many hats including: Senior Associate with QUEST\, Canada’s leading organization in advocating for Smart Energy Communities\, Managing Director of Garforth International Canada Inc. and his independent consultancy – Robert J. Kerr + Associates. \nHis work experience has been a balance between the private and public sector\, having worked with the Honeywell\, Hydro Quebec\, Toronto Hydro Energy Services Inc.\, and Energy Advantage. Rob has held senior positions at ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability providing policy and program support to cities around the world committed to mitigation and adaptation activities related to climate change. There\, he developed expertise in managing inter-governmental relationships – from his advocacy work at the global level (starting with the UN Climate Conference in Kyoto\, Japan in 1997) – to ongoing advisory relationships with the Canadian federal and provincial governments as well as the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. He has also worked with the cities of Mississauga and of course Guelph. \nDr. Karen Farbridge\nDr. Farbridge has over 25 years of experience in change-making in the non-profit\, public\, and private sectors. She went from grassroots organizing with her early work at the Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG)\, to a PhD in Zoology\, and then she became the first female Mayor in Guelph\, after spending years on City Council. \nShe has a longstanding passion for building sustainable and resilient communities. She has been a leader in various community innovation projects including smart growth\, downtown revitalization\, open government\, neighbourhood development\, community wellbeing\, resource and natural heritage protection\, community energy and municipal governance. She is a respected speaker who has worked to educate on matters of urban interest and community resiliency to broad and diverse audiences both locally and internationally. \nKaren is an urban connector that helps communities and governments across the country fight climate change in practical and achievable ways. \nDr. Karen Farbridge received the eMERGE Climate Change Hero award in 2019. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/it-is-not-enough-how-successful-communities-fight-climate-change/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200623T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200623T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200604T010055Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200604T010055Z UID:3751-1592938800-1592944200@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Clearing the Air- POSTPONED DESCRIPTION:=============================================== \n  \nA message to all attendees! \nWe unfortunately are postponing the Clearing the Air event scheduled for next Tuesday.We really want this to be a success\, but have had limited registrations to date\, in comparison we had +80 people attended our last event entitled eMERGE Street Fight. Stay tuned for the new date! \nApologies for any inconvenience caused. \n================================================ \nCan we save lives by moving to electric vehicles? \nAir pollution causes more than 3\,000 premature deaths every year in the GTHA – and that affects Guelph too. One of the biggest sources of this air pollution is vehicle traffic. \nThis estimate is based on exposure to 3 pollutants – fine particulate matter (PM2.5)\, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and Ozone (O3). Air pollution is linked to lung cancer\, respiratory conditions like asthma\, allergies and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases\, and cardiovascular conditions like angina\, heart attack\, hypertension and stroke. \neMERGE Guelph was honoured to be part of the review committee on a new study by the Ontario Public Health Association (OPHA) and Environmental Defence Canada: \nClearing the Air: How Electric Vehicles And Cleaner Trucks Can Reduce Pollution\, Improve Health And Save Lives \nWhat does a shift to cleaner vehicles look like? \nFive scenarios in the report compare the health benefits of reducing traffic pollution from cars and SUVs\, trucks\, and transit buses. Each scenario explores a specific mix of cleaner vehicles\, and how this shift impacts air pollution\, health\, and greenhouse gas emissions in the region. \nClearing the Air \nPostponed- Tuesday \, June 23\, 2020\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\nJoin us as we host two of the authors: \n\nSarah Buchanan\, Environmental Defence\nHelen Doyle\, Ontario Public Health Association OPHA\n\n————————————————————————————————— \nAbout our Speakers: \n  \n \nHelen Doyle | BSc\, CPHI(C) \, Ontario Public Health Association’s (OPHA) \nHelen Doyle is chair of the Ontario Public Health Association’s (OPHA) Environmental Health Work Group\, working with public health partners to promote and advocate for action on environmental health issues including: climate change\, air quality\, water quality\, housing\, built and natural environments and children’s environmental health. She is a member of the OPHA Board of Directors. Helen is also on the Board of Directors for the Windfall Ecology Centre\, a Green Communities Canada non-profit organization that delivers environmental programs and services in York Region and Toronto. Helen is a certified Public Health Inspector and retired from York Region Public Health in 2018 following a very rewarding and exciting 30 year career in environmental health and public health management. \nAND \n \nSarah Buchanan | Program Manager\, Clean Economy @sbuchananTO \nSarah began her environmental activism at age six\, when she proudly began wearing a t-shirt with the word RECYCLE spelled out in silver sequins. Sarah has worked for the last 15 years in advocacy\, media\, and politics in both Ontario and British Columbia. She was inspired to join Environmental Defense’s team through a desire to drive swift action on climate change\, and now works with people\, businesses\, and government to advocate for climate solutions in Ontario. Read Sarah’s blogs here.here. \n  \nWhile this is a FREE webinar\, registration is necessary – Register Now! URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/clearing-the-air/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200604T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200604T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200520T180705Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240420T232225Z UID:3693-1591297200-1591302600@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:eMERGE Street Fight DESCRIPTION:  \n \nImagine a virtual Street Fight with politicians ‘trash talking’ to prove: ‘My EV is better than yours!’ \nWe know politicians are up for a good fight. They tend to have different views of the world and tastes in EVs. Now four of them are sharpening their ‘trash talking’ skills to one up each other. \nThey’re fighting to brag that: \n“My EV is better than yours!”\nAll of these politicians got rid of gas cars and moved to electric. That one decision dropped their greenhouse gas emissions by 4 tonnes per year. Pretty impressive eh? And\, yes\, they also walk\, bike and take advantage of public transit as well. \nThis virtual Street Fight will be … all fight…all EVs…without the usual politics. \nTrash talk is encouraged. \nHowever\, if they get out of hand\, we’ll use that tried and true Canadian disciplinary tool: a penalty box. One that mutes the offending politicians. And if that’s not enough then their video will be shut down. \nWhat could be worse for a politician than being silenced and invisible? They’ve all been warned! \nYou’ll have to wait to find out who the arbitrator/judge/referee will be. Patience friends. \n_____________________________________________ \nWhat would a street fight be without onlookers. You’ll have the opportunity to ‘vote’ for the politician that’s convinced you that they have the best EV. Or maybe they were the funniest. Or most deserving. Or the one that annoyed you the least. Or the one you felt obliged to vote for because they were in your grade 6 class. Or the one that fixed the pothole in front of your house. You know\, kind of like when you vote in a real election. \nStreet Fight: My EV is better than Yours!\nThursday \, June 4\, 2020\n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\nThis is a free event but registration is required. To simplify the process we’re asking you to register via Eventbrite so that we can do a better job of keeping track of registered candidates. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nHere are your Street Fighters\nThey’ve decided to start early with intimidation tactics. Some are pretty scary while others maybe not so much. But we wouldn’t want to influence your decision too much. Instead we’ll give them a bit of a ‘poke in the eye with a sharp stick’ to help create the ambiance for the evening. \nApologies in advance to the grammar cops. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nMike Schreiner | MPP for Guelph\, Leader of the Green Party Of Ontario \n… and Street Fighter \n \nMike calls this: “Hold my beer while I scare the others” look . \nReally? \nWe bet his mom would tell him to wipe that smirk off his face. We’re pretty sure he’d comply in a hurry! \nIn fact\, Mike’s been known in political circles as being a ‘nice guy’. \nA nice guy? In politics? \nRecently\, super top secret reliable sources informed the eMERGE Intelligence Team (ya that’s a thing) that he’s actually in the running for the Lady Byng Trophy at Queens Park. \nWouldn’t a hockey team’s enforcer have a better chance winning a Street Fight than a nice guy Lady Byng Trophy winner wannabe! \nCould this be a deceptively devious diversionary tactic from a street savvy kid that grew up “in the hood”of a prairie family farm? \nWe have to wonder what the odds makers do with Mike. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nJames Gordon | Guelph City Councillor\, Ward 2 \n… and Street Fighter \n \nCouncillor Gordon’s childhood is steeped in the underbelly of downtown Rockwood’s back alleys. Those creepy streets made him into the ruffian he is today. \nLeaving all that behind\, he paddled his canoe down the Eramosa River to the megalopolis of Guelph. There he found his true calling: the mean streets of politics. \nHe claims to have street cred. The last politician that gave him a hard time can be seen in the back seat of his EV – lacking a heart beat. That yellow haired guy in his car looks surprisingly like a leader from south of the boarder! \nIn case you didn’t notice\, Gordon’s bloodcurdling\, sartorial opulence is topped off with a frightening fedora (it better be a Guelph Biltmore!). His always fashionable bib is strategically placed on his chest to catch the big chunks that miss his mouth. All of this is grounded with a pair of recently sharpened pointy toed spit kickin cowboy boots. \nLook out Lady Byng Trophy wannabe. These boots are made for kicking! \n(next time someone should tell him to wash his car for a photo shoot) \n____________________________________________________________________ \nPhil Allt | Guelph City Councillor\, Ward 3 \n… and Street Fighter \n \nWith some guys it’s all about the tools. Or is it the big-boy-toys? \nAllt shows up for the photo shoot with an EV that cuts four tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year compared to a gas car. He’s doing the right thing. Right? Then he adorns himself with a loud\, gas guzzling\, two stroke\, polluting chainsaw. \nWhat was he thinking? \nHe could have stopped with just the ax\, but noooo. His opponents are gonna have a field day with this one. Even Nice guy Mike is gonna ‘smirk’ all over him for that move. \nHowever\, Gordon’s spit kickin boots would be toast in seconds with that disgusting polluting ICE (internal combustion engine) chainsaw. \nWe’ll have to watch out for any other toys this lumberjack wannabe brings to the Street Fight. \nWe’ve all seen the network journalist reporting from home without wearing pants. Along that line\, Allt didn’t get the official City of Guelph memo entitled: During a pandemic always check for pants before leaving the house. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nLeanne Caron Piper | Guelph City Councillor\, Ward 5 \n… and Street Fighter \n \nWe think the boys should be worried. Really worried. \nThere aren’t many politicians that can kick above their heads. \nThink it’s easy? Go ahead\, try it\, we dare you! \nShe did Karate for some time along with gymnastics and still does the splits. However\, super top secret reliable sources informed the eMERGE Intelligence Team (ya them again) that the splits are usually easier for her if Tequila is involved. \nCan you say “kick ass political Street Fighter with pink boxing gloves”. That has a catchy ring to it doesn’t it? \nHer last street fight left her with a black eye and stitches. Take a close look. If you think that’s nasty\, you should see what happened to the 6 guys that disagreed with her. \n_______________________________________________________________________ \nAcronyms that will help you:\n– ICE: internal combustion engine\n– EV: electric vehicle\n\n\n_______________________________________________________________________ \nOur sponsor for this event: URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/emerge-street-fight/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200527T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200527T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200505T194444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200505T194444Z UID:3625-1590606000-1590611400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Increase in GHG Emissions in 2018 DESCRIPTION:New data shows that Ontario’s greenhouse gas emissions spiked in 2018\, after declining for a decade before that. What happened?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhile Covid-19 has likely caused a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions\, we know the structural issues that caused emissions to rise in 2018 continue to exists. Going back to business as usual will not be an option as emissions would continue to get worse. \nWhat happened and how can we prevent this trend from continuing? \nIncrease in GHG Emissions in 2018 \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nWednesday\, May 27\, 2020 \n__________________________________ \nJoin us as we welcome Sarah Buchanan from Environmental Defence as we discuss the impacts that structural systems have on increasing our GHG emissions in Ontario. Read her blog here. \n\n \n\nSarah Buchanan | Program Manager\, Clean Economy @sbuchananTO \nSarah began her environmental activism at age six\, when she proudly began wearing a t-shirt with the word RECYCLE spelled out in silver sequins. Sarah has worked for the last 15 years in advocacy\, media\, and politics in both Ontario and British Columbia. She was inspired to join Environmental Defense’s team through a desire to drive swift action on climate change\, and now works with people\, businesses\, and government to advocate for climate solutions in Ontario. Read Sarah’s blogs here.here. \n\n\n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/increase-in-ghg-emissions-in-2018/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200414T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200414T203000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200415T013803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200415T013803Z UID:3451-1586890800-1586896200@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Anxiety\, Climate and Covid-19 DESCRIPTION:  \n \nMany people have experienced anxiety around the lack of real success in the fight against climate change. Covid-19 is adding to this stress. In fact the world wide reaction to the epidemic has only underscored the need for similar\, widespread\, international action on climate change at the same scale. That realization can cause even more anxiety. \nThese stressors can be as broad as being debilitating to a mere distraction. But they all can prevent us from getting the work done. \nHow can we all learn strategies related to better mental health that can help keep us focused on the job at hand? \neMERGE Guelph is hosting a webinar with long time environmental activist and author of “Taking a break from Saving the World” Stephen Legault and Rachel Mahrer\, Mental Health Councellor focusing on:\nAnxiety\, Climate Change & Covid-19 \neMERGE Webinar  \n7:00 PM – 8:30 PM \nTuesday\, April 14\, 2020 \nThis is a free event but registration is required. via Eventbrite\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA veteran of burnout himself\, Legault looks at the culture of self-sacrifice that permeates the work done by volunteers and paid staff in the environmental conservation movement\, and dissects how to manage our own time\, energy\, and commitment to our causes. Following a river-running metaphor\, and proposing a variety of techniques to help with various states of anxiety resulting from burnout\, including clarity of purpose\, recognition of limits\, fitness and diet\, mediation and yoga\, as well as organizational structural changes such as leave-of-absence policies\, Legault encourages readers to find time to “eddy out” – to rest a moment in quieter waters and scout downriver – to ensure our lifetime of engagement is fulfilling\, effective\, and self-sustaining. \nJust as with teachers\, nurses\, doctors\, lawyers\, paramedics\, steelworkers\, students\, and airline pilots\, burnout is a growing concern in many social-change circles. Taking a Break from Saving the World takes a look at the impacts of eco-anxiety\, over-work\, and the associated stress surrounding the present and future state of the environment and offers practical and insightful suggestions on how to deal with it. \nActive in the social and environmental values movement since 1988\, Stephen is an experienced facilitator\, political analyst\, organizer\, and government relations and public engagement specialist. He was the founder of Wildcanada.net\, Canada’s first online advocacy portal\, and has served as Program Director for Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative and as the Senior Sustainability Development Office for Royal Roads University. Learn more about Stephen here. \nStephen’s also a gifted storyteller\, public speaker\, teacher\, and photographer. He’s the author of fifteen books and countless newspapers\, magazines\, and online articles. (Note that the Bookshelf has Stephen’s book on order) \nwww.stephenlegault.com\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRachel works in private practice with teenagers\, adults\, and couples. She brings experience and interest in anxiety and mood disorders\, trauma\, relationship and family issues\, sexual identity\, and general development/life span issues. \nShe is a registered social worker (MSW\, RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (0ASW). \nIn addition to private counselling Rachel worked as a counsellor at the University of Guelph\, and currently runs a group on campus to assist students dealing with social anxiety. She is Assistant Clinical Professor (Adjunct) in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University. Her work with McMaster involves training psychiatry residents in CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy – depression and anxiety) and group work clinical modules. She has focused training in Relational Life Training (RLT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). \nResources for dealing with Anxiety\nThis is a very limited list of resources for support. Please check if you have benefits for covering counselling. Most counsellors are providing secure video phone/telephone counselling during COVID-19 in lieu of in person support. Many companies have links to support sent in emails (including Shoppers links to CMHA resources). Many physicians are attached to family health teams with mental health resources.\n\nFor veterans and first responders:\nhttp://breakwaterinstitute.ca\n\nFree online counselling for health care providers (Ontario);\nhttps://covid19therapists.com/request-support/\n\nFree online program for people with mood or anxiety issues: \nhttps://www.mindbeacon.com/strongerminds?fbclid=IwAR1SSAo1DUXfhtArk-s7_FoR6VsncEBRQY5oLysJUyLTrvVOaxYrBJ9L9fs\n\n\n Counselling & Support \na) Family Counselling & Support Services in Guelph provide therapy and counselling on a sliding scale (i.e. pay what you can within a certain range)\, and I’m sure they are providing creative solutions to support community members during this time. Their contact information is available here: https://familyserviceguelph.on.ca/contact-counsellor-guelph/ \nb) The CMHA Self-Help Alliance offers peer support\, and they are currently providing accessible services over the phone: https://cmhawwselfhelp.ca/news/service-changes-due-to-covid-19/ \n· Here 24/7 at 1-884-437-3247 \n· Good2Talk at 1-866-925-5454 \nOnline Self-Directed Supports and Resources: \n· COVID-19 Anxiety:  Here are 5 tips from mental health experts (CTV) · Anxiety Canada: My Anxiety Plan – an online resource providing self-help information for anxiety\, as well as a CBT based curriculum · Big White Wall: a free\, online mental health and wellbeing service that helps people who are dealing with everyday stressors and mild to moderate depression and anxiety. This service provides virtual online peer support and self-management tools for adults and youth: · Centre for Clinical Intervention: Coping with depression online modules & workbook and support for health anxiety. \nApp Supports · Woebot is an automated conversation agent that helps you monitor your mood and learn about yourself. Use the referral code: ONTARIO for the app to direct you to local resources\, if needed. Mindshift: CBT app for Anxiety Support: https://www.anxietycanada.com/articles/new-mindshift-cbt-app-gives-canadians-free-anxiety-relief \n\n  \nThe webinar was uploaded into our U-Tube channel\, check it out : https://youtu.be/V2q5QLrp630\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/anxiety-climate-and-covid-19-2-2/ LOCATION:Online\, eMERGE \, ON\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:info@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200321T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200321T150000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200117T010233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200117T010233Z UID:2208-1584784800-1584802800@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:eMERGE Guelph hosting the 13th EcoMarket event DESCRIPTION:eMERGE EcoMarket Postponed\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \nOur health comes first. \nGiven all that has transpired recently\, it is evident that postponing the eMERGE EcoMarket is in the best interest of attendees\, exhibitors and the general public. \nThe world is showing  us that we can take aggressive action to mitigate a clear and present danger. As we jointly wrestle corona virus to the ground\, we need to remember to take the same approach to fight climate change.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n==============================================\neMERGE 2020 EcoMarket Event\nMarch 21\, 2020 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm\nOld Quebec Street Shoppes (map) \n  \nThe eMERGE EcoMarket is an annual sustainability expo showcasing environmental organizations\, green products and services. It attracts over 3\,000 people people looking for ways to fight climate change\, reduce their impact on the environment and save money.  Located in Guelph’s Old Quebec Street Shoppes (map)\, it welcomes families and residents including early environmental adopters looking to discover their path to environmental living! \nThe 2020 eMERGE EcoMarket is celebrating its ‘Lucky’ 13th anniversary with our partners and sponsors from the City of Guelph\, Downtown Guelph\, Old Quebec Street Shoppes and Barry Cullen.  If you are living in Guelph or in any surrounding area\, mark your calendar and don’t miss your chance to meet our exhibitors and network with community members and Not for Profit Organizations. \n======================================================\nOur 2020 EcoMarket Sponsors are: \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n====================================================== \n\nCall for 2020 Exhibitor Registration\n\nThe 2020 eMERGE EcoMarket is an excellent opportunity for your company to promote your products and services to environmental early adopters. Paired with the H2O Go Festival\, it will connect you with an audience primed for green and sustainable options that are looking to reduce their impact on the environment\, fight climate change and save money.  Vendor registration is now available for Guelph EcoMarket 2020. \nRegister by February 29\, 2020 for early bird prices! For questions please email Rasha A. \, the Event Coordinator:  Rasha@emergeguelph.ca or  phone (519) 763 -2652 \n======================================================\nFor registration or sponsorship opportunities contact us here.\n====================================================== URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/emerge-guelph-hosting-the-13th-ecomarket-event/ LOCATION:Old Quebec Street Shoppes\, 55 Wyndham St. N.\, Guelph\, Ontario\, N1H 7T8\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200228T210000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200228T223000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200123T200025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200123T200025Z UID:2226-1582923600-1582929000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Royal City Heroes- The Climate Change Edition DESCRIPTION:Climate Change Heroes 2020\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\neMERGE Guelph is proud to announce that Indigo Kim and Saffron Binder are the 2020 Climate Change Heroes! In a very short period of time Indigo and Saffron have motivated students from across the city to demand deep and profound climate action. From organizing student walkouts to lobbying city council to declare a climate emergency – they have shown repeatedly that young people can and will step up to take action. And these young women are still teenagers!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us – and our Making Box partners – as we put the fun into climate change with our 2020 Royal City Climate Change Heroes: \nIndigo Kim and Saffron Binder \nRoyal City Heroes\nThe Climate Change Edition\n9:00 pm – 10:30 pm Friday February 28\, 2020 \n\n\nFor buying tickets\, visit The Making Box link below:\nhttps://www.themakingbox.ca/new-events/m-b-comedy-guelph-2224-royal-city-heroes?mc_cid=08b91062f6&mc_eid=%5BUNIQID%5D URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/royal-city-heroes-the-climate-change-edition/ LOCATION:The Making Box\, 43 Cork St E\, Guelph\, Ontario\, N1H 2W8\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20200130T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20200130T210000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20200121T001755Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200121T001755Z UID:2218-1580410800-1580418000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Are Parkades Extinct? DESCRIPTION:Free tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/are-parkades-extinct-tickets-90067521381 \nHow Electric Vehicles will reshape downtown Guelph\n  \nWe have to ‘store’ our cars more than 90% of the time. That’s right – we use them less than 10% of the time. \nAnd society has paid heavy price by using more and more land for parking. While technology can’t solve all of society’s ills\, up and coming electric and autonomous vehicles have the opportunity to re-shape our downtown – taking the emphasis away from cars and making it more people centric. \nJoin Us as Evan Ferrari from eMERGE Guelph Sustainability argues that the quicker we can move to electric mobility\, the faster we can re-vitalize downtown. \nFree tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/are-parkades-extinct-tickets-90067521381 URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/are-parkades-extinct/ LOCATION:The Red Brick Cafe\, 8 Douglas St\, Guelph\, ON N1H 2S9\, Guelph\, N1H 3A2\, Canada END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20191104T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20191104T213000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20191002T221822Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191002T221822Z UID:1891-1572894000-1572903000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Postponed/ Health... as if Climate Change Matters DESCRIPTION:———————————————————————————————————— \n\n\nA message to all attendees \nPlease be advised that we -unfortunately-  are postponing the Health… as if climate change matters event  scheduled for next Monday. \n\nWe really want this to be a success\, but have had limited registrations to date. In comparison we had over 90 people attend our event in October entitled ‘Talk… as if climate change matters’. Our goal is to make this health event just as successful.\n\n\nWe are working on rescheduling for the new year and will keep you informed as things progress.\n\nApologies once again.\n\n\n—————————————————————————————————-\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClimate change is hurting human health in Southern Ontario\n\n\neMERGE Guelph is hosting a series of events designed to help local environmental early adopters succeed in fighting climate change. We call the series: As if Climate Change Matters.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\nHEALTH… as if Climate Change Matters \nWe have done a poor job communicating climate change to get real action. The ‘far off’ impacts have frequently made people feel as if sea level rise or flooding just couldn’t happen to them. \nThe reality is that Southern Ontario is already seeing the health impacts of climate change. We need to do a better job at communicating climate change. Now let’s learn about the local impacts. \n \n\nPegeen Walsh \nPegeen is the Executive Director for the Ontario Public Health Association. Her role requires supporting and facilitating advocacy efforts in public health and capacity building and knowledge transfer and exchange initiatives within the province and beyond. Prior to OPHA\, Pegeen has led the design and delivery of a wide range of programs\, policies\, partnerships\, and research that have supported individual and community health and well-being. As Ontario Regional Director with Health Canada\, the Public Health Agency of Canada and Director at the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion\, she oversaw various health initiatives ranging from early child development\, healthy eating\, and tobacco control\, healthy communities to injury\, alcohol abuse and 2008 OPHS Standards. As Director of Public Policy at YMCA Canada\, she developed government relations training and strategies. Just prior to joining OPHA\, Pegeen was a Research Director at the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships responsible implementing research strategy to advance knowledge and best practices. Pegeen is also a Board member at Family Services Toronto\, serving as chair of its Governance Committee. She holds a BA degree from University of Waterloo in Political Science. \n(more panelists to come) \n\n\n\n\n\nRegister here for the Health as if … Climate Change Matters event. URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/health-as-if-climate-change-matters/ LOCATION:10C- Shared Space\, 42 Carden Steet Guelph\, ON \, Guelph\, Ontario\, N1H 3A2\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20191018T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20191019T100000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20190901T230732Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190901T230732Z UID:1868-1571414400-1571479200@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:eMERGE EV Show DESCRIPTION:Over 8\,000 new vehicles are bought in Guelph every year. Unfortunately\, the overwhelming majority of them run on fossil fuel.  eMERGE wants to help you change all that with our 4th EV Show. \neMERGE EV Show\n4pm – 8pm Friday\, Oct 18\n10am – 3pm Saturday\, Oct 19th\nOld Quebec Street Shoppes \nTest Drives and EV 101 classes will be provided by Plugn’ Drive. \nThere are two different EV rebates available: \n\n$1\,000 Used EV Rebate from Plugn’Drive\nUp to $5\,000 EV Rebate from the federal government\n\n  \nCome downtown and check out different EV models\, chat with EV owners and car dealers. Bring your questions about buying\, driving\, and owning an electric car.  To register your spot for the EV101 Seminar and test drive click here \n  \nIf you have an EV and have the time and energy to volunteer with us\, register your vehicle here URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/emerge-ev-show-3/ LOCATION:St. George’s Square\, St. George's Square\, Guelph\, ON\, Guelph\, ON\, N1H 7T8\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20191003T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20191003T210000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20190901T233015Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190901T233015Z UID:1849-1570129200-1570136400@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:100 Debates on the Environment DESCRIPTION:1 of 100 debates on the environment across the country at the same time \neMERGE is proud to be one of the 10 local environmental groups organizing 100 Debates on the Environment – Guelph \nJoin us as we here local candidates vying for your vote as they debate the environment \n100 Debates on the Environment – Guelph\n7pm Thursday Oct 3rd\nCentennial CVI\, 289 College Ave W. \nJoin us and be part of the future!\nWith hope\, \n\neMERGE with the GreenPAC and the 100 Debates Team \n\nAbout 100 Debates\n\n\n100 Debates on the Environment brings together community groups\, non-profits\, businesses and individuals who are working to increase the level of environmental leadership in Canada by holding 100 strictly non-partisan all-candidate debates on the environment before the next election. \nhttps://www.100debates.ca/debates URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/100-debates-on-the-environment/ LOCATION:Centennial C.V.I.\, (289 College Ave W) END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20190930T190000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20190930T213000 DTSTAMP:20260501T011324 CREATED:20190831T153956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190831T153956Z UID:1851-1569870000-1569879000@emergeguelph.ca SUMMARY:Talk as if Climate Change Matters DESCRIPTION:Link to the slides- Dr. Louise Comeau \n \nCommunicating climate change to motivate action has been a challenge. Recent research shows there is a better way. \nThe scientific community has provided more and more evidence that action needs to happen now. But this approach has caused many in the broader society to feel paralyzed into inaction. \nRecent research and focus group testing has shown that there is a better way. \nDr. Louise Comeau will join us in sharing what social science teaches us on how to talk about climate change. Values\, ethics\, and compassion\, more than facts\, are the key to success. \nShe says “One of the most important things we can do about climate change is to talk about it. It’s not always easy to start a conversation on climate change or to know how best to do it.” \nJoin us on September 30 from 7:00 PM till 9:30 PM at 42 Carden St.\, 4th floor and register your spot. Limited Space! \n  \nLink to the slides- Dr. Louise Comeau URL:https://emergeguelph.ca/event/talk-as-if-climate-change-matters/ LOCATION:10C- Shared Space\, 42 Carden Steet Guelph\, ON \, Guelph\, Ontario\, N1H 3A2\, Canada ORGANIZER;CN="eMERGE Guelph":MAILTO:Rasha@emergeguelph.ca END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR