November Highlights

Photo Courtesy Rohan Chakravarty

Over 3,000 Indigenous Leaders Joined COP 30

+ Many of our images, logos, and graphics are clickable links that lead to more content +

Luther College Repair Cafe Highlights

Grateful to our hosts NVSSN (Nonprofit & Voluntary Sector Studies Network) and UofR Office of Sustainability for helping us put on a great Repair Cafe on November 8th

Our new volunteer Josh Johnston helps a participant repair a mini vacuum

Techs Mufeed Tawfeeq and John Tyler tried to save the dying oscillating fan. RIP

ASHRAE Conference

ECN was at the 2025 ASHRAE BuildGreen Saskatchewan Conference in Regina on November 12–13. The theme was “Empowering the Prairies with Sustainable Building Solutions,” and it was an inspiring gathering of professionals committed to sustainable building practices.

Community Gathers to Learn How to Lower Utility Bills at BuildGreen Saskatchewan Public Forum

ECN board member William Wells played a key role in organizing a timely session on home heating, drawing Regina residents to Darke Hall on Thursday, November 13. The free public event, “How to Lower Your Utility Bills,” was part of the 2025 ASHRAE BuildGreen Saskatchewan Conference. The evening featured experts from the energy and housing sectors, sharing practical strategies to cut household costs while advancing Prairie-wide sustainability. The panel included…

• Shanon Zachidniak, Regina City Councillor (Ward 8), who emphasized the city’s role in supporting energy efficiency and equitable access to home upgrades.
• Megan Bunney, Manager of Sustainable Energy Solutions at SaskEnergy, offering insights into rebates and programs available to homeowners.
• Derek Wu, CEO of Collaborative Construction, highlighting the importance of energy-smart building practices and retrofits.
• Pat Parrott, Consultant with SaskPower’s Customer Solutions team, who shared tips on managing peak usage and accessing utility support.
• Arman Mottaghi, CEO of Properate (BC), showcasing digital tools that help homeowners assess and improve energy performance.
• Tracey Kutney, Deputy Director of Housing in the Office of Energy Efficiency, Government of Canada, outlining federal initiatives and funding opportunities.

Some of the discussion highlighted The Saskatchewan Conservation House, built in Regina in 1977, revolutionized energy-efficient design with innovations like superinsulation, airtight construction, and heat recovery ventilation. Its pioneering features helped shape modern building codes and inspired the global Passive House movement.

UofR Strategic Planning

ECN was invited to attend the University of Regina’s Strategic Planning session on November 25, 2025, at the College Avenue Campus. The collaborative roundtable brought together nonprofit and community leaders to share insights on equity, wellbeing, and partnership. The groups explored how the university can strengthen accountability and foster reciprocal relationships in its 10-year plan. The discussion highlighted the importance of community voices in shaping a sustainable, inclusive future for the institution and province.

Be a Disinformation Detective!

ECN recently explored a powerful Workshop-in-a-Box toolkit built to help communities tackle misinformation and climate denial. It’s packed with adaptable templates, critical thinking exercises, and resources you can tailor for any audience. Now, we’re looking for people ready to put it into action. If you’re passionate about strengthening resilience and sparking honest conversations, drop us a line, the tools are here, we just need you. Email us today

Fireside Chat: Inside the TEDx Speaking Experience

ECN Chair Rob Deglau joined fellow TEDxRegina finalists for an inspiring evening at the Big Idea Stage. The night began with a lively fireside chat featuring past speakers and a public speaking coach, who shared behind-the-scenes insights into preparing for the TEDx journey. Energized by their guidance, each finalist delivered a powerful 3‑minute talk, showcasing the passion and purpose behind their Big Ideas. Rob’s presentation focused on Asset Based Community Development, highlighting how EnviroCollective has become a hub for sparking conversation and connection, mirroring the same impact and resonance as a TEDx talk itself.

Non Profit Volunteer Sector Studies Network

The NVSSN at Luther College is a dynamic hub for nonprofit learning, leadership, and innovation.

NVSSN connects students, faculty, and community leaders to strengthen Saskatchewan’s nonprofit sector. Through formal courses, professional development, and community-engaged research, NVSSN fosters reciprocal learning and sector-wide innovation. Its certificate in Nonprofit Sector Leadership and Innovation equips learners with practical skills for impactful careers. NVSSN also hosts networking events and collaborative projects that address real-world challenges, promote social entrepreneurship, and build capacity across the province. It’s a vital resource for anyone passionate about community impact, volunteerism, and sustainable change.

Credell Simeon

Credell Simeon is a passionate advocate for human and environmental sustainability, with a focus on education and community empowerment through the arts. Based in Regina, she has collaborated with organizations like the Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation to deliver an engaging hands-on workshop that helped youth envision sustainable city living through the lens of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Her creative approach to community empowerment includes leading zero-waste initiatives such as Earth Day upcycling art sessions, textile projects with local fashion designers, bottle-painting workshop for TEDxRegina, and solar energy art experiences. In 2025, Credell contributed to a Canadian poetry anthology exploring the intersection of work and climate. Her mission is to help communities and grassroot organizations take meaningful steps toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Findland's Libraries Lend Sewing Machines

In Finland, libraries are redefining community by lending more than books, they lend sewing machines. Visitors can repair clothes, learn new skills, and create with donated fabric, thread, and tools, all free of charge. These welcoming craft zones spark creativity, pride, and sustainability, turning simple mending into acts of resilience. Each stitch restores not only garments but also strengthens the fabric of community itself.

What is COP 30

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the official decision‑making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Since COP1 in 1995, representatives from nearly 200 countries have gathered annually to negotiate and advance global climate action. COP30, held in Belém, Brazil in 2025, marks the 30th meeting of this process. Its mission is urgent: to transform pledges into real progress by cutting greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to worsening climate impacts, and strengthening cooperation toward net‑zero by 2050. This matters because the world is running out of time, without decisive action, communities everywhere face escalating risks to health, food security, and economic stability. Read More Here

Brazil has emerged as a global leader in sustainable building, ranking among the world’s top five countries for LEED certification. This milestone highlights the nation’s growing commitment to green construction and climate-conscious development.

Read more about Brazil’s achievement and its impact on sustainable architecture here

Spots still available, New techs, New skills! Book your December 6th repair, now offering help with game controllers and guitar tune ups - Book Here

Upcoming Learning Events

Rebecca Magnus (Nature Saskatchewan); Rodger Ross (Indigenous worldview); Dr Tamar Richards-Thomas (UofR). Infographics: Students from the class will share infographics on resource management issues with the Diefenbaker water projects. All are welcome to attend!

GES 326 is widely known for its hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to tackling real-world sustainability challenges. Students often collaborate with local organizations, conduct fieldwork, and engage in projects that support climate action, energy efficiency, and environmental justice across Saskatchewan.

 Your Voice Matters: Help Grow Environmental Equity

Elizabeth May championed Bill C‑226, guiding the National Strategy on Environmental Racism and Justice through Parliament to Royal Assent in 2024. Her leadership, rooted in grassroots activism and collaboration, ensures marginalized communities are included in environmental decision‑making. Now, Canada is inviting people across the country to share their ideas and experiences to shape this strategy. This is a chance to speak up, strengthen resilience, and build healthier, fairer communities. Your voice matters, join the conversation today!

Regina: What Should We Fix, Rebuild, or Renew?

A national Canadian brand is offering to repair or refresh a meaningful community space in Regina, at no cost. Licensed contractors will complete the fully funded project during a special two‑day build in May-June 2026. We need YOUR ideas! From gardens, ramps, benches, rinks, or landmarks, to any beloved fixture needing care, big or small. Share your suggestion with EnviroCollective by message or call. Let’s bring pride and renewal to Regina together. Email us here

From Track to Classroom:

Be the Power Behind EV Learning!

Join the excitement with Swervin Mini Indy! They are seeking passionate Volunteers and Board Members to fuel our Student EV Challenge, an innovative program inspiring high school students to explore trades, engineering, and electric vehicle technology. Volunteers help keep races fair and fun, while Board Members drive fundraising and expansion across Saskatchewan and beyond. Be part of planting the seeds of innovation, teamwork, and sustainability. Ready to make an impact? Let’s race forward together! Contact Them Now

Science Made Simple

(& Super Fun!)

Peekaboo Kidz is a fun, trusted YouTube channel that makes learning exciting for children. With vibrant animations and the beloved character Dr. Binocs, kids explore science, nature, and everyday wonders in simple, engaging ways. From natural resources to measurements, complex ideas become easy to understand. Parents and educators can rely on Peekaboo Kidz to spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence, turning screen time into a joyful journey of discovery. Watch it at Peekaboo Kidz and Global Warming Video

Book Review

"Not the End of the World"

Highlighted at the ASHRAE Conference "Not the End of the World by Hannah Ritchie" is a refreshingly optimistic take on environmental challenges, grounded in hard data and clear-eyed analysis. With compelling graphics and practical insights, Ritchie dismantles common eco-myths and shows how rapid progress on climate, energy, and sustainability means we’re closer than ever to building a livable future. Bold, evidence-based, and empowering, this book is a must-read for anyone tired of despair and ready for action. Hear Hannah's TED talk

For our Friends at Bike Regina: While waiting to cross the street, a guy on a bike stopped and said, "You know... there are more psychopaths in Saskatoon than in Regina." I nodded, but didn't say a word... it was a little awkward. The light changed and he rode off. It wasn't until I got home that I realized that he said 'cycle paths'.

Shout Out: Darke Hall only uses compostable coffee lids - See that was easy!

Pop Shop

by Autumn McDowell

Exciting news, Regina has a new secondhand shop!

Located on 13th Avenue in the old Gale’s Florist building, Pop Shop is every thrifter's dream. The natural light, nostalgic paper chains hanging from the ceiling, and easygoing music all earn top marks in the vibes department.

With more than 10 vendors at any given time, Pop Shop has something for everyone who walks through the door. From wall-to-wall vintage clothing to curated pieces from small businesses, plus fresh gluten-free baking and local pottery, you can cross everyone off your shopping list with just one stop.

Pop Shop is a must-visit, but be quick. As the year ends, so does your chance to shop here!

Autumn McDowell, better known as @thriftmechic on Instagram and TikTok, calls Regina, home. As the Queen City's thrift-shopping guru, she shares unbeatable deals, creative finds, and second-hand style inspiration, while shining a light on local treasures and must-visit spots.

Prairie Clean Energy (PCE)

Prairie Clean Energy (PCE) has announced a 45% investment tax credit for accredited Saskatchewan investors through the Saskatchewan Technology Start-up Incentive program. Eligible investments up to $1M can qualify, with credits reaching $225K. PCE is pioneering cleantech by transforming flax straw and agricultural residue into sustainable, low-carbon biomass fuel, creating renewable energy solutions while advancing ag-tech innovation across the prairies. CEO Mark Cooper on the Tax Credit and read our article from November 2023

Transforming Broken China into Sustainable Keepsakes - The Eco-Creations of Sheri Wollf

by Credell Simeon

Saskatoon-based artist Sheri Wollf embodies the spirit of circular design through her exquisite broken China jewelry. Where others see cracked plates and chipped teacups, she sees “intricate patterns, forgotten histories, and opportunities for renewal.” Since 2015, Sheri has transformed discarded vintage dishes, objects once destined for landfill, into meaningful keepsakes that let families “hold their memories close.” With more than 9,000 Etsy sales, her eco-creations divert waste, preserve cultural heritage, and elevate everyday objects into sustainable art. Passionate and resourceful, Sheri proves “sustainability can be both beautiful and deeply meaningful.” Explore her full story and creations at The Knowledge Exchange

Follow Sheri

on Facebook and Instagram

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.

EnviroCollective is Exploring the 94 Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls for action

Action of Education (Calls 6–12)(62-66)

Education is a big part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. They ask Canada to make sure Indigenous children get fair funding for schools, create programs that respect Indigenous culture, and support Indigenous students in universities. They also call for teaching all Canadians about residential schools, treaties, and Indigenous history. These steps are meant to close education gaps, build understanding, and help move the country toward real reconciliation.

From Classrooms to Community: Regina’s Path to Reconciliation

The TRC Calls to Action on Education (6-12, 62-66) matter for Regina because they confront systemic inequities, strengthen Indigenous-led learning, and embed reconciliation into schools and universities. In a city with deep Indigenous roots, fulfilling these calls builds trust, empowers youth, and ensures education reflects truth, culture, and shared responsibility for a just future.

In Regina, reconciliation in education is advanced through Reconciliation Regina’s community programs, the City’s TRC commitments, and the University of Regina’s Reconciliation Action Committee. Local schools embed Treaty education, residential school history, and Indigenous perspectives into curricula, while Elders and Knowledge Keepers guide classrooms, ensuring truth and respect shape future learning.

Student EV Challange

Swervin Mini Indy Inc. offers organizations and charities a unique way to combine team building, fundraising, and thrilling competition. For 15 years, Swervin has empowered everyday people to experience the excitement of open-wheel mini Indy racing while supporting causes like Juvenile Diabetes, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Canadian Mental Health’s OSI-Can program. Their annual “Race for Recovery” raises awareness for PTSI among first responders, veterans, and frontline workers. Beyond racing, Swervin inspires future innovators through its Student EV Challenge, where high school teams convert go-carts to electric, gaining hands-on skills in fabrication, design, marketing, and sustainability.

Exposing Lies, Empowering Solutions

Climate Action Against Disinformation (CAAD) is a group of organizations working together to stop lies about climate change. They push for honest information, hold big tech companies accountable, and help people understand the truth. Their goal is simple: remove false stories and support real solutions for the climate crisis. Click Logo to go to their website

Many of our images, logos, and graphics are clickable links that lead to more content

Coal in the Stocking:

Saskatchewan’s Power Plan on Trial

A Saskatoon judge is weighing whether a legal challenge against Saskatchewan’s plan to extend coal power until 2050 can proceed. Environmental advocates argue the move violates federal clean electricity rules and undermines climate commitments. The case centers on the Boundary Dam Power Station near Estevan, highlighting tensions between provincial energy policy, federal regulations, and community-driven climate action. Click CBC Logo to take you to the story

Prisons vs Education 

Several U.S. states allocate more money to prisons than to education. Reports show that at least 7-11 states spend more on incarceration than higher education, highlighting a troubling imbalance in priorities

Canada spends far more on education than incarceration, but the per-person costs tell a striking story: it costs many times more to imprison someone than to educate a student.

Why It Matters

• Disproportionate Costs: Incarceration costs nearly 10 times more per person than educating a student.
• Policy Implications: Investing in education reduces crime long-term, while heavy incarceration spending reflects systemic inequities.
• Reconciliation & Equity: For cities like Regina, where Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by incarceration, shifting resources toward education aligns directly with TRC Calls to Action.

So you think you know it all?

Take the Test!

Gapminder.org helps people see the world more clearly through data, charts, and interactive tools. It challenges myths about global trends in health, wealth, and education, showing progress and realities often overlooked. Explore their resources and take the Gapminder Test, it’s a fun way to check your assumptions and discover surprising truths about our world. Click the Logo to start your test.

Ways to Save

SaskEnergy’s “Ways to Save” page helps households and businesses cut energy costs while reducing environmental impact. It offers rebates for efficient furnaces, boilers, and retrofits, plus tips for everyday savings. Programs like the Heating Affordability Program and First Nations Furnace Rebate make upgrades accessible, helping Saskatchewan residents save money, boost comfort, and lower emissions. Click the SaskEnergy Logo to Save.

Take Control of Your Water with eWater!

Regina residents now have a smarter way to manage water use and bills. With eWater, you can track your household’s consumption, receive alerts for unusual spikes, and get reminders before your bill is due. It’s simple, convenient, and eco-friendly. Plus, water-saving tips help you cut costs while protecting our environment.

Signing up is quick through MyAccount, and once you’re in, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your water is managed with ease. Whether you’re at home or on the go, eWater keeps you connected, informed, and empowered. Don’t wait, sign up today and make every drop count!

Cut Costs, Cut Waste

Regina residents can save money and reduce waste through the City’s Cart Swap program. Households may request a smaller garbage cart, lowering annual fees by nearly $100, or a larger cart if needed. Billing adjusts immediately for downsizing, while upgrades take effect upon delivery. Combined with recycling and composting services, cart swaps help families match their waste habits, cut costs, and support Regina’s sustainability goals. Sign up online through the City’s Cart Swap Request page.

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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