A local non-profit has received the 2022 Environmental Impact Award for their stunning commitment to sustainability over the past year. This year’s winner, Thames Talbot Land Trust (TTLT), was founded in 2000 by a passionate group of volunteers dedicated to protecting nature and biodiversity. The organization is being recognized for their land conservation efforts over the past year. Awarded annually by the London Environmental Network and Green Economy London, the Environmental Impact Award recognizes a non-profit organization that has had a significant impact on the local environment through emission reduction, biodiversity conservation, waste reduction, water conservation, or public education. 

“We are extremely honoured to be recognized in our community with the environmental impact award,” says Daria Koscinski, Executive Director at TTLT. “This award represents the amazing work of passionate staff and volunteers dedicated to protecting and caring for nature to ensure a better future for all.”

TTLT has a number of nature reserves that protect biodiversity and wildlife located in London and the surrounding area. They currently protect more than 2000 acres of land across Southwestern Ontario, including some areas with public trails for use. Additionally, the organization is being recognized for running a number of community programs to get Londoners involved in environmental conservation. These include their Diversifying Conservation, Biodiversity Boss, Education for Youth, and Passport to Nature programs, which aim to engage diverse groups of Londoners in conservation efforts.

“Many of our programs are about empowering individuals by providing them with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in their communities”, says Daria. “We see the impact of these programs through the greater number of community members volunteering and contributing to conservation.”

In the future, the team at TTLT plans to continue establishing relationships with more diverse partners and communities to ensure their efforts align with their commitments to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. To stay up to date or get involved with TTLT’s work, join their email list and follow the organization on their social media platforms. Contributions can also be made through donations to support the work they do.

Written by Amber Kerr, Western Community Engaged Learning Student with Green Economy London