Latest news with #Mayor'sEnvironmentExpo

Calgary Herald

City Hall hosts students for sustainability showcases at 36th Mayor's Environment Expo

City Hall showcased student-led sustainability initiatives that aim to preserve and maintain Calgary's environmental future with the return of the 36th Mayor's Environment Expo. Article content The Mayor's Environment Expo runs from June 2 to 5, and serves as a platform for students to connect with professionals, host exhibits, and attend workshops centred around conserving and protecting Calgary's natural environment. Article content Article content Article content This year, more than 38 exhibits, 16 virtual workshops, and 100 in-person sessions were offered to students. For 36 years, the expo served as a way to help promote Calgarian youth to learn and promote sustainable practices for the city's future. Article content Mayor Jyoti Gondek said that it is amazing to see the expo grow, adding that remarkable students are always in attendance each year. Article content 'There's a lot of good work happening here and these kids are super focused on protecting the planet, making sure future generations have an amazing life,' Gondek said. Article content Calgary schools play a major role in each year's success, with additional support from collaboration from EcoSchools Canada and the Alberta Council for Environmental Education. Since 2005, their framework has provided independent reporting and recognition to schools and environmental education centres. Article content Article content Teacher of Apostles of Jesus School, Kelly Craigue, said the Mayor's Environment Expo provides an incredible opportunity for students to apply their knowledge in an impactful way. Article content 'It was inspiring to see them connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for caring about the environment,' Craigue said. 'The diverse selection of presentations ensured there was something to engage every student, making it easy to find programs that matched their interests.' Article content A few notable projects included an aquaponics system showcased by Ranchlands School, a pollinator garden with a planting of the '3 sisters' for a fall harvest by Apostles of Jesus School, and Robert Thirsk School teaching 90 students each semester on the importance of sustainable food production. Article content 'All of these students are very interested in doing what they can to preserve their environment and make an impact on the world,' Gondek said. 'The ideas they have are worth listening to. If I can get out to chat with all or at least some of them, it's a great opportunity for me to connect and understand what they're working on.' Article content