With urban areas set to become home to two-thirds of the world population by 2050, and as climate change is being observed and experienced at an increasingly local level, cities find themselves at the frontline of the battle against climate change. Bringing together innovators from every sector provides an indispensable setting for idea-sharing, and problem-solving.

Municipal governments have a first-hand understanding of community needs and are capable of greater agility to take swift concrete measures, with effects that ripple well beyond local spheres.

As we face mounting environmental challenges, it will be our towns and cities that take a leading role in the fight for a more sustainable world. Earth Day Canada thanks the 150 municipalities that made environmental commitments with us in 2023. We hope to rally even more cities for Earth Day 2024!

We will be having a tree-planting ceremony at the Gordon/Barrie Island Municipal Office at 29 Noble Sideroad on April 19th. The time for the ceremony is at 2pm. Those in attendance will received a box with seeds so they, too, can plant in their own yards and create a legacy that will live long into the future for the generations to come.

The tree that will be planted will be a fruit tree. Drop by to find out what kind of fruit tree it will be!

Also, the Municipal Government will be participating in the cross-country tree planting relay that will take place June 22nd. With a grant from the provincial government, we will be planting a row of trees along the northern boundary of the office to create a sanctuary for those who seek calm, and to provide a windbreak from the northwest winds. We will be uploading photos and other promotional material on Friday, May 24th. Check back here for the latest updates!

Planting trees is good for the environment and adds to the curb appeal of your properties. There are several very good places on the island where you can purchase trees and shrubberies to enhance your yard. Get in the spirit of tree planting and drop by the Municipal Office April 19th or May 24th and be part of the action.

Earth Day, celebrated on April 22 each year, is a key time to unite our community and make a positive impact on the environment. Many municipalities across Canada are being proactive and taking bold steps to be part of the ecological transition to create a healthier environment for their citizens. The upcoming media campaign will highlight sustainable mobility during the April 22 celebrations. The goal is to inspire a significant number of citizens to move away from single-occupant vehicles and choose other modes of transportation for their travels.