[Uvic-sustainability] News and Events for week of July 28th
- Details
- Published on Monday, 28 July 2014 16:20
- Written by editor
NEWS
The Tyee recently featured a study by UVic Phd candidate Christina Service, which documents grizzlies colonizing 10 central coast islands- a far cry from what was previously thought to be their typical habitat range. The study supports local Indigenous knowledge, which has been observing the phenomenon for years. The reasons for the habitat shift are still largely unconfirmed, though many cite declining salmon populations as a possible cause. See a video of the Grizzlies on the Vancouver Sun website.
The BC Sustainable Energy Association published the first of a four part series of articles by ecologist Guy Dauncey that seeks to answer the question: “Could BC Become a 100% Renewable Energy Region?” It’s a big question with a lot of considerations to make, but Dauncey responds with... a resounding ‘Yes!’, while delving into the regional specifics. Check in next week for the follow-up: “Could BC’s Transportation Operate on 100% Renewable Energy?”
Speaking of renewable energy making huge strides forward, check out Al Gore’s comprehensive and positive article, “The Turning Point: New hope for the Climate” in the current issue of Rolling Stone. Also just out is a detailed UN-backed report “Pathways to Deep Decarbonization” that asked experts from 15 countries to come up with scenarios that could drastically reduce carbon pollution by 2050. The Canadian team came up with a plan to reduce our emissions by 90% (!) mostly through switching off fossil fuel dependency and replacing it with electricity produced from renewable sources such as solar, wind and geothermal sources. Read a summary of the report in ipolitics.ca.
Want to have more energy, stronger calf muscles, and a greater sense of self-sufficiency? The Huffington Post published this amusing article about the myriad benefits of cycling regularly. The article also features tips on getting started as a new cyclist. This is good news, because cycling in the region is about to become safer and more accessible! The City of Victoria has put aside $5 million for cycling improvements over the next five years, and will be focusing on constructing separated bike lanes.
EVENTS
VICTORIA STREET FOOD FESTIVAL
Aug 1st, 11:00 AM- 9:00 PM, Centennial Square.
Support local food vendors while listening to live music and DJ's. Local beer and cider will be available. For more info, see the Facebook page.
THE CHANGING NATURE OF WATER MANAGEMENT IN AOTEAROA, NEW ZEALAND
Aug 5th, 10:30 AM to 12 PM, SEG C168
UVic’s POLIS Water Sustainability Project presents Elizabeth Soal (Policy Manager, Waitaki Irrigators Collective Limited and Director, Irrigation New Zealand Incorporated) for a talk and discussion on New Zealand’s new water management policies. Space is limited so please RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
HAT VOLUNTEER RESTORATION & POTLUCK BBQ
Aug 9th, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, SOOKE, LOCATION TBA
The Habitat Acquisition Trust will be hosting a restoration celebration event, featuring a few hours of restoration work, swimming in a pristine, private reservoir, and an afternoon BBQ. Hot dogs and refreshments provided. Bring a potluck dish and a snack. Sturdy shoes, gloves and a swimsuit recommended. RSVP to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Paige at 250-995-2428. More info on HAT's website
VOLUNTEER WORK PARTY: HALIBURTON FARM
Aug 2, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM, Haliburton farm, 741 Haliburton Rd.
Help support the Haliburton community organic farm, and learn hands on skills in organic gardening. Call 250-658-0758 for more info, or link to the Facebook page. .
COMPOSTING BASICS WORKSHOP
Aug 9th, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, the Compost Education Centre- 1216 North Park rd
Free workshop that introduces the basics of composting, and the many ways to do it. Call 250-386-9676 to reserve your spot, and get more info on the website.
INTENSIVE: NATURAL BEEKEEPING
Aug 9th, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM, Compost Education Centre- 1216 North Park rd
Workshop shows how to begin the practice of backyard beekeeping. Topics include: hive design choice, how to build a hive, natural bee health and bee-friendly hive management. See the website for more info, or call 250-386-9676
GORGE SWIM FEST
Aug 10th, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM, Gorge Waterway
Join the Gorge Waterway Initiative as they swim the Gorge to protect and enhance the natural and cultural features of the waterway. Featuring food, live music, games and crafts. For more info, see the CRD website, and check out the Facebook event page.
Rita Fromholt
Sustainability Coordinator
Office of Campus Planning & Sustainability
University of Victoria
E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it."> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., O: 250.853.3758, C: 250.884.5751
