Environment Committee
Working Together for a Healthier Environment
When the Rotary Club of Ottawa South decided to establish an environment committee, it was choosing to become better informed about the environmental challenges facing its members, its community, the world … and to act.
In 2021, it established a committee in keeping with Rotary International’s commitment to contribute to the betterment of society around the world. The committee later joined the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) that shares information with Rotarians about sustainable practices and the global humanitarian crisis of climate change.
In just one year, the club’s environmental initiatives and activities were recognized with a 2022 bronze certificate at the District 7040 Environmental Sustainability Commitment Awards. The club is now working towards a silver certificate.
Want to become involved with RCOS’s Environment Committee? Contact us at info@rotaryottawasouth.ca
Initiatives and Activities
CLUB:
1. Environmental Sustainability Speaker Series
In 2021-2022, Rotary Ottawa South members learned about the City of Ottawa Environmental Plan, solar panel systems, electric cars, environmentally friendly businesses and trade, and more.
2. EnviroMinutes
At club meetings, members are given EnviroMinutes, one- to two-minute messages prepared by committee members about sustainable environment practices. These are also published in the weekly newsletter.
3. Zero Waste Picnic
A picnic without the use of any single-use items while minimizing waste and protecting the environment was one of the goals. So, in August 2022, members brought reusable, compostable or recyclable items to the club’s summer social in Prescott, Ontario. The second goal was to have fun. Both were achieved.
4. Measuring Carbon Footprint
In 2022, committee members started measuring their carbon footprint. The exercise is about educating and taking personal responsibility in the reduction of carbon emissions. Going forward, the committee’s findings will be introduced to club members, who will be encouraged to do the same.
LOCAL:
1. Roadside Cleanup*
An annual cleanup of the community surrounding the Ottawa Rotary Home was paused in 2022 because of the pandemic. The Springtime cleanup of roadside litter will return in 2023. * A combined project with the RCOS Community Service Committee
2. 2 Billion Trees Program
In 2022, environment committee members applied for a 2 Billion Trees grant from the federal government. If successful, RCOS members will plant trees in the City of Ottawa.
3. Community Tree Giveaway Event*
In early September 2022, Rotary Ottawa South members gave away 202 tree seedlings in the South Keys area of Ottawa.
* Cohosted with Ecology Ottawa.
INTERNATIONAL:
1. Clean Cookstove Project
Committee members are researching and evaluating clean cookstove initiatives in Guatemala and how the club can participate. These clean cookstoves benefit women and children the most, while reducing air pollution and deforestation.
Are you interested in learning more? Email us at info@rotaryottawasouth.ca.
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