April 7, 2009

NOTL Schools Present Youth Eco-Conference

On Thursday, April 16, Niagara District Secondary School will be the place to learn about all things green. That day, students from grades 6-12 in Niagara on the Lake will come together for the first-ever Niagara on the Lake Youth Eco-Conference.

The theme of the event is “Building a Sustainable Community”. Participating students will get to choose from over 20 environmental workshops being put on by DSBN staff and local community partners. Workshops scheduled to take place include:

The Bottled Water Dilemma: This workshop will tackle the question, “Is bottled water better than tap water?”

Healthy Organic Eating: Organic eating involves eating foods that have no synthetic pesticides herbicides, preservatives and/or additives. The Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario will show students simple and cost effective ways of eating healthy.

Carbon Footprinting: Representatives from Niagara College will be on hand to discuss practical measures schools, students and their families can take to better manage their impact on the environment.

In addition, students will have the opportunity to learn about local environmental efforts at a trade show set up by more than 15 community organizations around the region.

"This is an issue that really resonates with students," says Brad Digweed, Teacher, Colonel John Butler Public School. "This conference will support our students with the knowledge and tools to continue promoting a culture of conservation both at school and at home."

Bill Andrews, professor emeritus of environmental science at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, will deliver the conference’s keynote address. Mr. Andrews will speak about the world we could find ourselves living in 20 years from now. He will also describe the technological advances that are being made to conserve resources, and how individuals will have to adjust their habits in order to develop a sustainable lifestyle.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, April 16
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., keynote address scheduled for 9:50 a.m.
Location: Niagara District Secondary School, 1875 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara on the Lake