RELEASE — Three projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the community and provide a suite of additional benefits were unveiled earlier today at the official kick-off the second annual Kingston Community Climate Action Fund, held in Memorial Hall.
“I am blown away by the projects brought forward this year,” says Mayor Bryan Paterson. “Not only will they help reduce our community’s greenhouse gas emissions, but they will also enhance the lives of so many people in our community immediately,” he adds.
The City is seeking to raise $71,250 to realize the three climate action projects. “It’s a big target but one we are confident we can meet it,” says Julie Salter-Keane, Manager of the City’s Climate Leadership Division. Last year, the community raised $48,000 in support of Martha’s Table and Habitat for Humanity Kingston Limestone Region.
Projects that need your support:
Cycle Kingston – Bicycle valet program
Cycle Kingston is seeking support for Bicycle Valet Kingston, which provides valet bicycle parking to residents who cycle to events. By providing safe and secure destination bicycle parking at events and festivals – and increasing awareness of bicycle parking– Cycle Kingston will encourage and empower more people to leave their cars at home and pedal to their destination.
Extend-A-Family Kingston – Hydroponic Greenhouse
Extend-A-Family Kingston is asking the community for its help to build a climate-controlled hydroponic greenhouse to provide fruits, herbs, and vegetables to approximately 500 individuals (120 families) year-round. By growing produce locally year-round, this project will lower carbon emissions associated with food transportation while enhancing local food security.
Sustainable Kingston – Rain gardens
In partnership with The Kingston & Frontenac Housing Corporation, Sustainable Kingston is seeking your support to launch its Rain Garden Project. If successful, rain gardens will be added at four affordable housing sites. Over their life cycle, rain gardens produce 30 to 90 percent fewer GHG emissions than conventional stormwater management alternatives. They do this by diverting wastewater from traditional water treatment plants.
How to donate
If you can make a donation to the Kingston Community Climate Action Fund, donations are being accepted at all Kingston Community Credit Union (KCCU) branches, with the KCCU committed to match donations made through the bank up to $5,000.
Donations are also being accepted online through CanadaHelps.
“Real change often starts at the local level. And so, if you can, please help support these worthy initiatives. Together, let’s demonstrate climate leadership!” concludes Paterson.
Release | Image source: City of Kingston
