#PoliticsToday is a virtual series about political issues and engagement in Waterloo Region and the broader political sphere.
In Episode 3 we will discuss climate justice efforts in Waterloo Region, as advanced by organizers of the 50 x 2030 campaign in Waterloo Region, a grassroots, community-led campaign advocating for Waterloo Region to commit to a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, in line with the imperatives of climate science and centring social justice and well-being. The panel will share their critical thoughts on climate change efforts in the region, how graduate students can engage in these important conversations in our community, and more!
This event will take place on zoom webinar. Registration is required.
Registration Link
Moderator: Jodi Koberinksi
Panel:
Kai Reimer-Watts is a documentary and social change filmmaker and community activist. He is pursuing his PhD in Community Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University with a focus on engaging communities more effectively on building a strong Culture of Sustainability (COS) through connecting the arts and social change theory. He volunteers with 50by30, Faith Climate Justice and several other community groups.
Meg Ruttan Walker is a climate organizer and activist in Waterloo Region who focuses on grassroots coalitions and climate justice. She volunteers with 50by30 and Fridays for Future. She is a writer and former teacher who lives in Kitchener with her family.
Scott Morton Ninomiya is pursuing a PhD in Global Governance at UWaterloo with a focus on decarbonizing and decolonizing local energy systems. He volunteers with 50by30 and Faith Climate Justice and chairs the Truth and Reconciliation Working Group of Mennonite Church Eastern Canada. He lives in Kitchener on the Haldimand Tract with his family.
More info about the campaign: This campaign builds on the public commitment made by regional municipalities in 2019 by declaring a climate emergency, recognizing the existential risks posed by climate change globally and here in Waterloo Region. This emergency, like the pandemic, is already impacting on public health and well-being and demands our attention. 50x30WR aims to build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic through a just, green recovery that centres human well-being and innovation, building towards a socially just, sustainable and climate-smart Waterloo Region together. 50 x 2030 Waterloo Region website
