More stories of change

Sometimes it can feel like you’re the only one taking action on climate change. The truth is many Edmontonians are taking steps to reduce their impact. Here are some of their stories.

Cindy Olsen:

We reduce, reuse and recycle, with reduce and reuse being our first options. And we holiday most often at our cabin where we have installed a composting toilet, taken out the electric stove and use a wood stove, burning only dead fall from the land. We would like to get solar panels to further reduce load.

We have been relying on a garden for most produce in summer and try and buy food locally to reduce transportation costs of getting food to market.

I’m trying to drive less. I have some mobility issues so I’m unable to bike that far or walk.

We live in an older neighborhood and have mature trees in our yard which helps to absorb carbon and also regulate house temperature. We do not use pesticides or insecticides - instead, we attract pollinators through garden planting. We have rain barrels here to catch and store rainwater for plants. At our cabin we do not have running water and all of our water is from rain except for drinking.

Michelle Mark:

I’m trying to make small changes for a big difference, so I started bypassing the plastic bags for picking up my dog mess daily. Now I use old takeaway food napkins or paper towels when I go out, and they work even better!

Wayne Callan:

We’ve been making small changes to improve our lifestyle and to improve the environment, not just for ourselves but our children and grandchildren.

Greg Surmon:

There are lots of small things that can be done with very little inconvenience that will help on a massive scale. People just need to be aware of the better alternatives available to them.

I eat less meat and I don't waste any food. I work near my home and I bike for fun. Strategic use of the blinds is key in keeping your heating and cooling bills down. Not using AC in the summer helps, along with wearing extra sweaters at home in the winter. Instead of flying on a jet somewhere, walk over to local festivals for your leisure time!

Roberto Villanueva:

One of the best parts about summer is getting back on my bike. I get to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and change for climate!

This post was a compilation of submissions from various Edmonton community members. Some may have been edited for clarity.

If you live in Edmonton and have a climate change story to tell, let us know! Your story could be shared here too.