ENVIROCOLLECTIVE
NEWSLETTER
| | In this issue: How do I get a sign? | | Highlights From Last Month | | |
YWCA Partnership
EnviroCollective and YWCA announced a partnership to host three Repair Cafes. Saturday May 31st and October 4th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at their head office 2817 12 Avenue and Saturday July 19th at the YWCA Encore Market YQR from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 2005 8th Avenue.
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State of the Foundation Address
ECN attended the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation’s event celebrating their $7 million impact across 250+ charities in 2024. This gathering featured investment updates, 2024 highlights, and future opportunities, fostering connections among fund advisors and stakeholders. ECN appreciated engaging in this inspiring discussion about strengthening community impact together. ECN and SSCF are working on a joint announcement for later in April... stay tuned.
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Nonprofit / Municipal Roundtable
ECN participated in the Nonprofit-Municipal Roundtable Session, hosted by the University of Regina - Luther College's Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Studies Network (NVSSN). The event brought together over 50 individuals, including Regina's mayor, Chad Bachynski, P.Eng., city councillors Victoria Flores, Shobna Radons, Shanon Zachidniak and Dan Rashovich along with nonprofit leaders, to exchange ideas and explore ways to collaborate more effectively. It was an inspiring opportunity to seek innovative approaches for strengthening our community. We eagerly anticipate hosting more sessions like this in the future. Read Regina's Non Profit Voices Collaborating with the City & Regina's Non Profit Voices Full Findings
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Connecting Community Organizations with the University of Regina
The University of Regina hosted a networking event aimed at fostering meaningful connections between community-based organizations and various university units that offer valuable services and resources for the nonprofit sector. This gathering provided an excellent platform for participants to:
- Learn about the range of university services designed to support nonprofit and community-based organizations.
- Build connections with university staff and faculty actively involved in nonprofit work.
- Explore collaborations and partnerships to enhance organizational impact.
Attendees were introduced to opportunities for research support, access to enthusiastic student volunteers, and professional development programs tailored to the needs of the nonprofit sector. The event served as a guide to help organizations discover and leverage the resources available to strengthen their initiatives and address community challenges effectively.
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Wetlands Fest
On March 6th, the University of Regina proudly hosted Wetlands Fest at the Research and Innovation Centre Atrium, bringing together conservation enthusiasts to celebrate and learn about the vital role of wetland ecosystems. This free event featured engaging talks from renowned experts like Trevor Herriot, Dr. Kerry Finlay, Dr. Samantha Kerr, and Jordan Rustad, who shared insights on prairie ecology, wetland conservation, and sustainable water management. Attendees enjoyed light food, refreshments, interactive activities, and exciting prizes while fostering a community connection for wetlands preservation. Wetlands Fest successfully highlighted the beauty, importance, and future of these ecological treasures.
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Lunch and Learn
with Eriel Tchekwie Deranger
| | ECN attended a Zoom Lunch and Learn hosted by West Coast Climate Action, featuring Eriel Tchekwie Deranger, executive director of Indigenous Climate Action (ICA) and recipient of the 2024 Climate Breakthrough Award. This prestigious program provides individuals with substantial, flexible, multiyear support to develop, launch, and scale transformative climate solutions. Eriel plans to use this investment to create a global initiative, ensuring Indigenous peoples are effectively resourced and included in climate negotiations and decision-making processes. Her visionary strategies, emphasizing Indigenous-led solutions, inspired participants and highlighted the critical role of sovereignty in addressing the global climate crisis. Catch her full presentation here | | |
Getting to Zero:
Checking In on Local Carbon Reduction Initiatives
ECN attended the Community Panel Discussion: Getting to Zero on March 18 at the mâmawêyatitân centre in Regina. This engaging event explored local carbon reduction initiatives and their connection to climate justice. Panelists included Robbi Humble, Abhay Singh Sachal, Neil Paskewitz, and Dr. Jennie Stephens, with Jocelyn Crivea moderating. Attendees gained insights into sustainable energy, community resilience, and innovative approaches to emissions reduction. The discussion fostered collaboration and highlighted the importance of climate action in building an equitable future. Refreshments were provided, and the event, presented by the University of Regina, inspired meaningful dialogue and progress toward net-zero goals.
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Butterfly Pathways
EnviroCollective connected with the David Suzuki Foundation to explore a potential partnership focused on creating Butterfly Pathways starter kits.
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The Green Drinks event at Malty National fostered eco-friendly networking and intergenerational dialogue. Engaged youth shared their climate action insights, sparking meaningful conversations with adults. Attendees connected over sustainability in a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere, celebrating community collaboration and diverse voices. Our next Green Drinks is April 24. Location To be determined.
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First Repair Cafe of 2025
On March 29th, EnviroCollective hosted a Pop-Up Repair Café at the Heritage Vintage Market, where community members gathered to revive and restore their cherished possessions. Amid the lively atmosphere of antiques and treasures, volunteer fixers shared their expertise, repairing items like toasters, lamps, and a few broken sewing machines. Visitors marveled at the practical skills on display, learning how small fixes could save beloved items from the landfill. The event fostered a sense of togetherness and sustainability, blending creativity with environmental awareness. By the end of the day, attendees left with repaired treasures and the inspiration to embrace the value of mending over discarding.
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Join NVSSN and the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation on April 2nd for "Creating Programs Based on Lived Experience" via Zoom—learn to co-design impactful, sustainable nonprofit initiatives with community voices! Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM on Zoom.
Zoom Link here, Free to join
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Worldwide Climate Education Week is a global initiative sparking dialogue around climate and justice on campuses and in communities around the world. Join us April 7-13, 2025. Join us for Virtual Events.
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In Support of Earth Day April 22nd
Event Name: Art for Impact: Save Earth, Painting for A Better Tomorrow
Date: April 19, 2025
Location: Room GB-2, George Bothwell Regina Public Library Branch
Time: 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
FREE REGISTRATION (Limited seats)
Description: Join artist Credell Simeon as she shares her creative practice and talks about her work on sustainability in recognition of Earth Day 2025. The artist will share her work on combining upcycling with solar energy to inspire innovation. Participants will be actively engaged in glass painting and upcycling activities as part of this interactive session. No painting experience required.
Event host: csCreatives Studio
Link: Get your tickets here
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Cathedral Village
Arts Festival May 24th
Visit our Booth
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Pop Up Repair Cafe May 30th
YWCA 2817 12th Ave 10:00 to 4:00
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Making Music in a Throwaway Culture
Written by Credell Simeon
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Imagine transforming waste into invigorating music! Dr. Sarah Schmalenberger, a Fulbright visiting scholar at the University of Regina, is leading a groundbreaking research project that merges music with environmental sustainability. In a recent workshop, participants reimagined waste through sound, using discarded objects to create rhythms and improvised music. Dr. Schmalenberger demonstrated how items often deemed worthless could be repurposed into expressive tools for artistic and environmental awareness. By engaging with throwaway materials in a musical context, the workshop sparked creativity and encouraged participants to reflect on the value of reuse and sustainability. Visit www.improvmussus.com to learn more. Read the full article here
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Credell Simeon is a Regina-based freelance writer and artist passionate about sustainability and creative expression. She specializes in projects like bottle painting that promote zero-waste living and inspire her community to find beauty in repurposed materials.
| | Community Activist Profile | | |
Eriel Tchekwie Deranger is a Dënesųłiné member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and a prominent Indigenous rights and climate activist. She is the Executive Director and co-founder of Indigenous Climate Action (ICA), an Indigenous-led organization advocating for climate justice and sovereignty. Eriel has worked with organizations like Rainforest Action Network and Sierra Club Canada, focusing on environmental protection and Indigenous rights. She has been instrumental in challenging industrial projects like the Alberta Tar Sands and promoting Indigenous-led climate solutions.Her work highlights the profound links between climate change, colonialism, and systemic oppression, driving meaningful change for a sustainable future. Congratulations to Eriel on receiving a $4 million Climate Breakthrough Award!
Did you know that Eriel was born in Regina, and her mother Susana has been a presenter at EnviroCollective community events as a member of MEJA (Mother Earth Justice Advocates)
| | Green Technology Editorial | | |
Yes, EVs work in the winter – very well!
Many believe batteries die in the cold, making electric vehicles impractical in Canada’s winters. Not true! Modern EV battery packs keep themselves warm. My Kia Soul EV reliably starts at -30°C, as do others I’ve encountered. Yes, cold reduces range—my car drops from 400 km in summer to 200 km at -20°C. Some EV's loose only 30% and new models often lose less or start with 500 km range. Despite challenges, like renting a gas car for a frigid Christmas trip, EV savings on fuel quickly offset such costs. Plus, EVs offer perks like excellent traction from their weight distribution and safe remote starts without emissions. They’re proof that clean, efficient driving isn’t limited by cold temperatures. EVs truly shine, even in Canada’s harsh winters. Read the Facts at Goetab
| | Grant Gilchrist, P. Eng., is a Systems Engineer, environmental advocate, and guest writer who merges his expertise with his passion for sustainability. In his column, he explores the benefits of electric vehicles and debunks common misconceptions. Since 2022, he has been the proud owner of a Kia Soul EV. | | | We’ll share one sustainable development goal in each upcoming newsletter | | | |  | |
Sustainable Development Goal 13 Climate Action
Climate change threatens all life, but the public holds the power to make a difference. Rising greenhouse gas emissions cause extreme weather, sea level rise, and instability. To limit warming to 1.5°C and achieve net-zero emissions, bold actions must transform energy, industry, and agriculture.
Individuals can take impactful steps by adopting sustainable habits like conserving energy, supporting renewable energy initiatives, reducing waste, and advocating for climate policies. The Paris Agreement laid the groundwork, but we must collectively push for stronger efforts. With increased participation from governments, businesses, and the public, we can combat climate change and secure a sustainable future for generations to come. Every action counts—your involvement matters!
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What can we do in Regina?
In Regina, there are several ways individuals and communities can contribute to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action. Here are some ideas and initiatives:
Actions People Can Take:
- Support Renewable Energy: Regina has committed to becoming a renewable, net-zero city by 2050. Residents can support this by adopting renewable energy solutions like solar panels or joining local initiatives like the Wascana Solar Co-op.
- Reduce Carbon Footprint: Simple actions like using public transportation, cycling, or carpooling can make a difference. Organizations like Bike Regina promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation.
- Participate in Local Conservation Efforts: Groups like Friends of Wascana Marsh focus on conserving local natural areas. Volunteering or supporting such organizations can help protect Regina's environment.
- Engage in Climate Advocacy: Join advocacy groups like the Regina Energy Transition or Better Bus Youth, which campaigns for the right to a healthy environment and free transit for youth.
- Educate and Collaborate: Attend workshops or events hosted by organizations such as the University of Regina's Office of Sustainability or the Institute of Environmental Change & Society.
- Adopt Sustainable Practices: Embrace waste reduction and sustainable living through initiatives like Nature Regina which encourages eco-friendly habits.
The EnviroCollectives website lists numerous local organizations dedicated to climate action and sustainability. It serves as a hub for connecting with groups that align with SDG 13 goals. For example:
By engaging with these organizations and adopting sustainable practices, residents of Regina can actively contribute to combating climate change and achieving SDG 13.
| | | | Scientists warn bottled water may pose serious health risks, finding harmful hydrocarbons in plastic bottles. Despite rising consumption—16.2 billion gallons in 2024—research suggests this "healthy" habit could harm vital organs. Health experts urge caution. | | | | The Utah Supreme Court's ruling in Natalie v. State of Utah provides major wins for climate action, enabling policy reform, denying fossil fuel mandates, and allowing youth plaintiffs to challenge specific state fossil fuel activities further | | Tips, Trips, Hacks and Accolades | |
Community Volunteer Income Tax Program
A shout out to the SaskTel Pioneers who proudly run one of the largest tax clinics in the province through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP). Their dedication aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1: No Poverty, as they assist individuals with modest incomes in accessing entitled benefits and credits, improving financial stability and reducing poverty. This initiative also contributes to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by ensuring vulnerable populations have equitable access to financial services and resources. The SaskTel Pioneers' commitment to community well-being exemplifies how volunteer-driven programs can make a significant and tangible impact in creating a more just and sustainable future.
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Take a Sign, Make It Clear
Climate Action Starts Right Here!
Get your Free Sign
Thanks to Malty National for being one of our pick up depots.
Drop in at 1130 15th Ave, Say Hi from us and ask for your sign.
or drop us a line at info@envirocollective.ca
| | Geotab.com is driving climate action and sustainability through innovative data-driven solutions. As a leader in connected transportation, Geotab empowers organizations to reduce emissions, optimize fuel usage, and integrate electric vehicles into fleets. Their tools provide insights into routing efficiency, driving behavior, and emissions management, enabling informed decisions for decarbonization. Committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, Geotab aligns its efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By collaborating with partners and leveraging advanced technology, Geotab supports the transition to low-carbon transportation, fostering a sustainable future while addressing environmental challenges. Their initiatives exemplify impactful progress in combating climate change. | | EnviroCollective Resource Directory | | |
EnviroCollective is pleased to announce another website feature with the launch of their Eco-Friendly Initiatives and Groups directory. This curated resource features organizations dedicated to climate action, environmental conservation, and sustainability. It highlights local, regional, and national groups working to make a meaningful difference through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Visit the EnviroCollective website at https://www.envirocollective.ca/organizations/
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National Climate League Report
The National Climate League (NCL) report, developed by The Climate Reality Project Canada, is an annual volunteer-driven project that analyzes climate plans, targets, and policies for over 50 Canadian municipalities. It highlights local solutions, encourages transparency, and supports efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Over the year ECN will break down key findings and where does Regina fit in the mix
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What is Leed Certified
A LEED-certified building is one that’s designed and built to be environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. It follows certain guidelines to save energy, use water wisely, improve indoor air quality, and use eco-friendly materials. There are different levels of certification, like Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, depending on how well the building meets these standards. Essentially, it’s a way to ensure buildings are good for the environment and the people using them.
How would it work for Regina
Measuring the number of certified LEED buildings provides insight into the prevalence of sustainable structures in a community. LEED, one of many certifications for energy-efficient buildings, evaluates various sustainability aspects through different rating systems and certification levels. Municipalities may adopt LEED standards, other certifications like Passive House, or create their own criteria. Banff leads with 108 LEED-certified buildings per 100,000 residents (actual count: 9), followed by Vancouver with 72 (480 buildings). Toronto has the highest overall count at 624. Data from the Canada Green Building Council highlights LEED’s role in tracking green building progress across communities in Canada.
| | You have a story? Let us know, we need to pass on the good news! | | GET INVOLVED WITH ENVIROCOLLECTIVE | | Email us at info@envirocollective.ca to learn how you can contribute today! | | | | |
EnviroCollective is a non-partisan, judgement free group that is open to everyone.
Email us at info@envirocollective.ca or DM us through our socials Facebook/Instagram @envirocollectiveyqr or Twitter @envirocollect1.
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