July Highlights

Rebuild, Reuse, Rethink Construction in Regina

Ankara N Vogue Carnival

EnviroCollective proudly joined Ankara “n” Vogue Carnival 2.0, celebrating Africa’s vibrant culture, fashion, and sustainability. Their presence amplified community engagement and creative expression, forging connections through eco-conscious initiatives and shared values. The carnival’s fusion of heritage and innovation aligned perfectly with their mission for a greener, united future. We were there supporting one of our volunteers Credell Simeon who won 2nd place in the fashion show wearing a cutural creation she designed herself.

Hon. Alana Ross Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport with Ankara organizers

Ladybug Release Victoria Park

ECN dropped in at the Ladybug Release Event in Victoria Park on July 11th, supporting the City’s initiative to control aphid populations. The event educated residents on the importance of ladybugs in natural pest management and encouraged families to get involved in protecting trees from damage caused by aphids and other pests.

SCIC GenMo Event

ECN proudly attended the final dinner of Generating Momentum, Saskatchewan's largest youth summit for changemakers aged 18–25. Held under the theme “Own Your Story: A Night of Us,” the evening celebrated youth leadership rooted in global justice, gender equality, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. ECN connected with passionate participants, SCIC staff, and facilitators, deepening shared commitments to advocacy and community impact. The event was a powerful reflection of the summit’s core: equipping young people with tools, confidence, and networks to drive change locally and globally. ECN was honored to be part of this inspiring evening.

A big shout out to Nature Regina for popping by and using the event to give away more of their native plants to shoppers and Repair Cafe customers.

Another successful Repair Cafe, with special thanks to our hosting organization YWCA Encore Furniture Market

Next Repair Cafe Sept 6th - Read on

What Just Happened!

The Hague, July 23, 2025 , The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared climate justice a legal obligation under international law. The ruling urges all nations to reduce emissions and safeguard the environment as part of their duty to uphold human rights. Initiated by Vanuatu and backed by 130+ nations, the advisory opinion sets a powerful precedent for global action. Youth-led movements hailed it as a victory for vulnerable communities. Though non-binding, the decision amplifies pressure on governments and polluters to enforce climate commitments. The tide has turned, ushering in a new era of environmental accountability. If you like details read this!

Saskatchewan's Climate Justice Challenges and Implications

Saskatchewan is facing big challenges after a major climate justice ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Here's what it means for the province:

What's the ICJ Ruling?

The ICJ said that not cutting emissions could be against international law. Saskatchewan has the highest emissions per person in Canada, 64.4 tonnes of CO₂ in 2022. This puts the province in the spotlight for legal action.

Legal Trouble

A group called Climate Justice Saskatoon is suing the province, saying that building more gas power plants goes against people's rights. Today the Saskatchewan Environmental Society put forth a legal challenge around coal production and that the province is turning its back on cleaner options like solar and wind. The ICJ ruling could make their cases stronger, leading to big legal problems for Saskatchewan.

Policy Changes

The ICJ ruling might push Saskatchewan to speed up its plans to cut emissions. Projects like SaskPower's Aspen and Great Plains stations could face extra pressure to go green. The federal and provincial governments might also need to step up their climate game to meet global rules.

Bigger Picture

The ICJ ruling gives people more power to demand climate action and even ask for compensation for environmental damage. Saskatchewan's economy, which depends a lot on fossil fuels, might have to rethink its future.

What's Next?

Saskatchewan has a lot to figure out. From legal battles to changing policies and economic shifts, the province has to deal with these challenges while taking care of the environment.

Jerilyn Nixon with SEVA

Jerilyn Nixon has been an electric vehicle (EV) owner for nearly eight years, celebrating her anniversary this October. For the past seven years, she has served as Secretary on the Board of the Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association (SEVA). In 2025, Jerilyn attended the EV and Charging Expo in Toronto and collaborated with Plug’n Drive for their EVs are for EVeryone Cross Canada Tour. She thrives on sharing EV knowledge, learning from others and supporting the curious. What began as casual interest has grown into a genuine passion, and she looks forward to deepening her involvement in the EV community.

The Next Repair Cafe: Saturday September 6th

Join YWCA Regina for this year’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes, a powerful community gathering to stand in solidarity with those impacted by intimate partner violence.

Date: Thursday, September 18, 2025

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Location: Pat Fiacco Plaza

This event isn't just a walk, it's a vital fundraiser for YWCA Regina’s Isabel Johnson Shelter, which provides critical support for women and children fleeing violence. In 2024 alone, 994 individuals were turned away due to capacity limitations. Your participation helps raise awareness and support for one of Regina’s few gender-based violence shelters. Register to walk or create a team here!

 BuildGreen Saskatchewan Conference

The Regina and Saskatoon chapters of ASHRAE will host a two-day conference on November 12–13 at the University of Regina, spotlighting sustainable building practices tailored to Saskatchewan’s climate. This collaborative gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, Indigenous communities, students, and more is a bold call to action—breaking silos and forging partnerships to create resilient, eco-forward infrastructure rooted in regional identity and environmental stewardship.

September 20 is the International Day of Climate Action and Seniors for Climate is inviting you to get involved. Seniors For Climate is a national organization of Seniors Climate groups - welcoming everyone but led by seniors. They currently have 82 locations in every province and territory (except Nunavut and they are working on that). In 2024 they led the only national climate event and they did it on October 1st (National Seniors Day) to show that, contrary to the narrative, seniors are not sitting back enjoying their "Golden" years but working to improve the world for future generations. Check out their website for more information and to learn how to get involved.

Community Climate Action: A Fresh Concept Needs Fresh Leadership

EnviroCollective is developing a vibrant new initiative in Regina, a community-powered reboot of the Sustainability Expo. This concept blends the power of public dialogue, creative expression, and collaboration to mobilize climate action across generations and sectors.

We're shaping a series of events and projects focused on adaptation, mitigation, and imagination, with speakers, art, youth voices, and diverse perspectives. It’s designed to be practical, inclusive, and welcoming.

We’re now seeking passionate individuals to help guide this movement. If you’re energized by climate justice, community engagement, and creative problem-solving, consider joining our steering committee to help shape direction, partnerships, and momentum. Let’s build this together. info@envirocollective.ca

 Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet

Registration is now open! Join us in Moosomin, SK September 19-20 for the Nature Saskatchewan Fall Meet. The hosting society, The Gateway Nature Society, has been hard at work planning a fantastic weekend including a field trip to Fort Ellice (NCC Property), presentations and a Saturday evening banquet. Read more here

Thank you to Asha-Rose Bakery & Coffee House for catering meals to our Repair Café volunteers in Regina! Nestled in a charming heritage building at 1433 Hamilton St, their space blends warmth and whimsy—where vintage musical instruments illuminate the cozy interior. Their nut-free treats were a safe and delicious gift from the heart.

Big thanks to Secondhand Wonderland for proudly sponsoring Regina’s Repair Café! Their commitment to repair culture and sustainability goes beyond resale, by supporting local efforts to fix and reuse, they help reduce landfill waste, encourage circular thinking, and make eco-conscious shopping accessible. It’s proof that secondhand can lead the way toward a greener community.

YQR Vintique Market

by Autumn McDowell

Have you discovered the Vintique Market?

Tucked just a few blocks from Value Village, at the corner of Osler Street and 7th Avenue, this charming shop has quickly become a favourite for vintage lovers in the city.

Inside, you'll find everything from fabulous fashion and rare collectibles to nostalgic home décor and one-of-a-kind finds. You’ll lose track of time browsing every corner, including the expanded upstairs space!

Be sure to watch for their themed sales and late-night shopping events, that’s when you’ll find the best unexpected treasures with unbeatable prices.

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.

Upcycled Fashion Takes Center Stage at Ankara Carnival 2025

by Credell Simeon

At the vibrant Ankara Fusion Carnival 2.0 in Regina, sustainable fashion took center stage with dazzling upcycled designs. The July 5th, 2025 event celebrated African heritage and multicultural creativity through a lively showcase of Ankara prints. Eco-artist Credell Simeon and designer María Fernanda Martínez wowed audiences with two standout pieces crafted from vintage fabrics, repurposed lace curtains, glittered t-shirts, and island-inspired headdresses. Their collaborative fashion statement fused Caribbean culture, African tradition, and local innovation, proving style and sustainability can walk hand in hand. The carnival wasn’t just about fashion; it was about cultural pride and community-driven creative expression. Read the full story here

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.

We’ll share one sustainable development goal in each upcoming newsletter

SDG 17 Partnership for the Goals

This Goal is practically woven into the DNA of EnviroCollective here in Regina. As a grassroots network, we thrive on collaboration, bringing together citizens, nonprofits, businesses, and government to tackle climate change and sustainability challenges locally.

Here’s how SDG 17 shows up in our work:

• Multistakeholder Collaboration: We partner with groups like Regina Energy Transition, Better Bus Youth, and groups that adhere to the SDG principles to amplify climate action.
• Community Empowerment: We host forums, surveys, and events that engage residents in shaping Regina’s renewable future, aligning with SDG 17’s emphasis on inclusive decision-making.
• Resource Mobilization: Through initiatives like Repair Cafés and Sustainability Expos, we help mobilize local resources and knowledge to support sustainable development.
• Data & Accountability: Our election surveys and public engagement efforts mirror SDG 17’s push for transparency and progress tracking.

In short, we are a living example of SDG 17 in action—building bridges across sectors to create a more sustainable Regina.

You can Huff and Puff but Regina's first Strawbale building is almost 25 years old

In 2001, the Circle Project Children’s Centre in Regina, Saskatchewan broke ground on a truly unique daycare facility, Western Canada’s first commercial building constructed with straw bales. More than just a pioneering structure, it symbolized a commitment to sustainability, safety, and child-centered design.

Thick straw bale walls provided superior natural insulation, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures during Saskatchewan’s extreme winters and warm summers. Anny Perry, Circle Projects Director stated the cost to heat the place is half of what their other facility is and it is only 2500 sq ft

Despite misconceptions, straw bale buildings are highly fire-resistant. If there was a fire the stucco-encased bales smolder instead of burning due to the absence of airflow between densely packed straws.

Made from agricultural waste, straw bales reduced the building’s environmental impact. Natural lighting further minimized energy use, making the design both eco-conscious and cost-effective.

The 5,000-square-foot facility is warm and welcoming with sunlit rooms and 18-inch-deep windowsills, perfect for reading and reflection. Glass walls and courtyard-facing windows enhanced transparency and connection, aligning with the centre's ethos of openness and holistic community care.

Almost Twenty-five years later, this building stands not only as a physical structure but as a testament to creative problem-solving and visionary architecture.

Transition to Trades

Built Futures in North Central Regina

Ten years ago, Transition to Trades empowered unemployed youth in Regina’s North Central community. Led by Jane Gattinger until 2014, the program offered life skills and carpentry training, supported by the North Central Community Association. Students received work gear and safety certificates, then rebuilt derelict homes into compact duplexes. These affordable one-bedroom units were immediately occupied, bringing much-needed housing. Graduates gained hands-on experience through partnerships with landlords and construction firms. The initiative also inspired Life Under Construction, a CBC two part documentary capturing its lasting impact. More than homes were built, these youth constructed new paths to pride, purpose, and opportunity. It was with great sadness that funding for this highly acclaimed initiative was withdrawn, as it was not deemed a priority.

Street Culture Project Construction Services

Founded four years ago in Regina, SCP Construction is a social enterprise specializing in decks, fences, concrete work, and both general and commercial contracting. Led by Woman of Distinction award-winner Tara Leggott, a Red Seal journeyman with over 20 years in the trades and former SIIT job coach, the company reinvests all profits into programs supporting at-risk youth. SCP has completed major projects like the Prairie Sky School renovation and their own headquarters. With a team of nine employees, two have already gone on to build thriving careers in the trades, reflecting SCP's commitment to empowerment and growth.

Get Quote Now

Ranch Ehrlo Redefines Housing

Chaz Court redefines entry-level affordable housing through smart design and intentional support. Located in Regina, this innovative development offers compact, eight self-contained studio units tailored for young adults transitioning from care. By integrating property management with life-skills training and mentorship, it fosters independence within a secure, affordable framework. Each 200-square-foot apartment maximizes functionality while preserving dignity. This model doesn’t just fill a housing gap, it sets a new standard for youth-focused, transitional housing. With strong community collaboration and wraparound services, Chaz Court proves that affordable housing at $508 per month which can be both aspirational and practical, empowering residents to build stable, self-reliant lives.

Sustainable Revival: Breathing New Life into Old Bricks

At 1300 8th Avenue, revitalization met responsibility. Instead of demolition, as West Oak developers embraced deconstruction, a meticulous, low-impact method that preserved valuable heritage materials. The aging garage next door was carefully dismantled, allowing every vintage brick to be salvaged, cleaned, and repurposed. This sustainable approach reduced landfill waste, conserved embodied energy, and honored the character of Regina’s Warehouse District. Reusing original materials didn’t just cut down on emissions, it ensured the building’s story continued in every weather-worn corner. By fusing history with forward-thinking practices, the redevelopment set a new standard: beauty, legacy, and sustainability, working hand in hand.

The Climate Reality Project

by Madison Cooke

The Climate Reality Project is a non-profit that has been operating in Canada since 2007. Climate Reality Project Canada (CRPC) works with 33 community climate hubs to offer resources, help connect with local stakeholders, and build capacity for the group’s success.

CRPC has been supporting grassroots work in Saskatchewan for nearly a decade including EnviroCollective, Saskatoon Climate Hub and the Saskatchewan Renewable Energy Coalition, who happens to be looking for volunteers.

CRPC wants to be a resource, if you think your group may need assistance with a project or event, Please contact us! We’d be more than happy to lend a hand.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and LinkedIn to hear about events we plan across the country. Watch for annual opportunities to join the 1800+ Canadians who are already Climate Reality Leaders!

Madison Cooke is a summer student with Climate Reality Project Canada, working on climate action planning and policy advocacy throughout the Prairie region. In her role as Prairies Regional Action Coordinator, she’s collaborating closely with climate hubs to support regional sustainability initiatives.

Regina's First Community Toy Box Launches at Pause Coffee

Regina’s first Community Toy Box has found its home at Pause Coffee on 13th Avenue, bringing warmth to both kids and caregivers. Like a Little Free Library but filled with toys, this shared bin welcomes donations of gently loved playthings, puzzles, figurines, plush animals, and invites families to take what brings joy. The initiative promotes reuse, generosity, and connection in the Cathedral neighborhood. Whether grabbing a latte or strolling by, visitors often pause to give or receive. With local support growing, the box is already a symbol of trust, teaching children that kindness is something you pass on..@communitytoybox

Our New Repair Cafe Sponsor

EnviroCollective is proud to partner with Affinity Credit Union in support of the Repair Café program. As a sponsor committed to environmental sustainability, Affinity recognizes that building a greener world is essential to building a better one. Their generous support aligns with efforts ranging from sustainable transportation to ecosystem preservation, values that resonate deeply with our mission. We're honored to work with an organization so dedicated to advancing community-based solutions for a just energy future.

How Credit Unions are Pushing a Just Energy Transition

While big banks continue to pour billions into fossil fuels, Canada’s credit unions are charting a cleaner course. By prioritizing ethical finance, B Corp certification, and community-based lending, they’re placing sustainability front and center. Whether it’s offering energy-efficient home loans or supporting green projects, these member-driven institutions are accelerating a just energy transition—one neighbourhood at a time. It’s a quiet but powerful shift in how we fund our future. Want to dive deeper into this transformation? Read more at The Energy Mix

Running Low on Trash, Send Help!

Sweden's waste management system is so efficient that it imports waste from other countries to keep its recycling and energy-from-waste plants operational. Sweden recycles or reuses about 99% of its household waste. This has led to a situation where they don't generate enough domestic waste to fully utilize their processing plants, leading them to import waste from other nations Read more at Earth Org

The Saskatchewan Renewable Energy Coalition is a growing alliance of individuals and organizations, from industry, government, and the nonprofit sector—working together to promote renewable energy across the province. Through public education and engagement, the Coalition strives to accelerate a just and sustainable energy transition for Saskatchewan. Please Fill out their survey on Renewable Energy

Cats, Crops, and Compost:

The Flax That Fights Waste

Prairie Clean Energy and the Regina Humane Society have teamed up to turn flax straw, a crop byproduct usually burned, into biodegradable cat litter. This sustainable switch helps reduce emissions, supports local farmers, and minimizes landfill waste. The litter neutralizes ammonia, requires no water or high-energy drying, and could divert up to a million tonnes of straw annually. With expansion plans to humane societies across Canada, this initiative showcases how innovative reuse can boost environmental impact, right from the litter box. Read the full story on CBC

Powering Progress: Interprovincial Grids as Canada's Climate Backbone

The Canadian Climate Institute’s article champions interprovincial electricity grid connections as a top nation-building priority. By linking regional grids, Canada can unlock clean energy potential, boost resilience against climate extremes, and reduce emissions. This visionary infrastructure plan supports economic growth, energy independence, and environmental stewardship. As demand for electricity surges, especially from electrification and AI, a unified grid positions Canada to lead in sustainable energy and climate action. Read the full article here

Climate-vulnerable developing countries face crippling debt burdens, with payments reaching their highest levels in over 30 years. These nations now spend four times more on external debt than in 2010, diverting funds from climate adaptation and disaster response. Private lenders demand high repayments, even during crises like droughts, leaving countries like Zambia unable to invest in resilience. Without urgent debt relief, climate action in the Global South remains severely constrained. Read the full article here

Green Is the New Black (Gold)

Fossil fuels are officially getting ghosted, by investors. In 2025, clean energy is set to rake in a whopping $2.2 trillion, double the amount going to oil, gas, and coal. Solar panels are the new stock market darlings, wind turbines are flexing, and even batteries are getting VIP treatment. Meanwhile, fossil fuels are left swiping through investor profiles wondering where it all went wrong. Turns out, sunshine and sustainability are just better dates Read the full article here

Saskatchewan Faces Legal Challenge Over Coal Extension That Defies Federal Climate Law

The Government of Saskatchewan’s decision to extend coal use until 2050 directly defies federal climate law, risking public health and environmental stability. Concerned citizens, backed by the Saskatchewan Environmental Society and Citizens for Public Justice, have launched a legal challenge, arguing that the province is turning its back on cleaner options like solar and wind. With some of Canada’s best renewable potential, critics say Saskatchewan is clinging to the past instead of investing in a sustainable future. As the fight heats up, advocates hope the courts will stop this reckless plan before the province burns its bridges, and its air.

Alaska issued its first-ever heat advisories as temperatures soared near 89°F, prompting safety warnings. The move reflects growing concern over extreme heat impacts in a traditionally cold climate.

Featured Native Plant of the Month

This month’s spotlight shines on Grindelia Squarrosa, a vibrant and low-maintenance native species perfect for Prairie gardens. Not only is it colorful and garden-friendly, but it also supports biodiversity by providing year-round benefits for local wildlife. Its long blooming season offers essential nourishment to birds, insects, and small animals. After flowering, its stems become prime nesting material, birds shred them for spring nests while bees and other insects settle inside the hollow stalks later in summer. You can find Grindelia Squarrosa at Nature Regina’s Spring and Fall Native Plant sales, a sustainable choice for gardeners and wildlife alike.

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EnviroCollective is a non-partisan, judgement free group that is open to everyone.

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