Local young participants in a climate initiative are actively implementing their acquired knowledge by aiding churches in the Waterloo region and Guelph in lowering their carbon emissions. Lucas Shin, Esther Hope Pridmore, and Amber Culley were part of a cohort engaged in the Climate Motivator program by the United Church of Canada earlier this year. During the program, the group completed an eight-week internship at local churches, devising strategies to assist the congregations in adopting more eco-friendly practices.
Shin conducted an assessment of the utilities at St. Luke’s United Church in Cambridge, leading to a proposal for more sustainable lighting and heating solutions for the church. Moreover, he organized an event, attended by Cambridge MP Connie Cody, to educate fellow United Church members about the Climate Motivator program.
Pridmore’s project centered on establishing a pollinator garden at Dublin Street United Church in Guelph. By enhancing the floral and plant diversity at the church’s entrance, she aimed to support Guelph’s bee population and other pollinators, sparking interest among congregants to start their own pollinator gardens.
Culley concentrated on educational initiatives at Forest Hill United Church in Kitchener, creating a summer camp where children learned about environmental conservation. She also collaborated on generating materials outlining ways for the congregation to lead environmental initiatives, including organizing environmental services that involved children and signing campaign letters urging stronger climate action from local MP Tim Louis.
The engagement in the program has instilled hope in the group regarding Canada’s environmental future, amidst concerns over the impacts of climate change. Pridmore expressed optimism, noting the dedication of individuals striving to address climate challenges. Shin emphasized the urgency for change, highlighting ongoing wildfires in northwestern Ontario as a call to action to safeguard nature for future generations. Culley integrated traditional teachings, such as control burnings, into her project to educate participants on sustainability, fostering hope for a more environmentally conscious future.