What does sustainability mean?
What does it look like on the ground?
Showcasing sustainability in Ottawa is the focus of this round’s grant winner. JustChange is excited to award our $1000 grant to the Ottawa Sustainability Tour.
Launching September 14th, the tour is a self-guided journey between locations that each address one key aspect of sustainability. Ten diverse sites in Ottawa have been selected based on their unique approach. Participants are invited to take the tour by different means of transportation, including a designated bike route.
Jim Birtch, the leader of the project, breaks it down like this: “Sustainability can seem intimidating but it’s something we can all help accomplish without waiting for action from above. We want to motivate people by showing off what Ottawa has done in the past and what we’re doing right now.”
The JustChange grant is a much-needed boost and will be used to produce eye-catching signage for each location. These bilingual signs will deepen visitors’ understanding of the sites. As Jim puts it, “the signs are a tangible recognition of what citizens and organizations are doing to address this important issue.”
The tour is geared towards those of all ages and means, residents and tourists alike. Jim wants to get the attention of policymakers as well. He is aiming to have the signs displayed at City Hall during the week leading up to launch, and there are plans for an online and printed guidebook. The idea comes from the Ottawa Biosphere Eco-City Initiative in partnership with the Otesha Project and Tucker House. It has been powered by a dedicated group of volunteers and supporters, among which JustChange is now proud to be included.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting initiative. The September 14th launch will feature a special guided tour and sustainability-themed events at each location. Jim also hopes to find a partner to help develop a mobile app to reach even more people. If you want to learn more about the tour check out their website or get in touch with Jim directly at: james.i.birtch@gmail.com .