London Environmental Network member, Thames Region Ecological Association (TREA) is committed to educating members and communities about ways to protect the environment and take personal action. TREA’s projects support its strategic goals of increasing waste diversion, active transportation and reducing fossil fuel usage. Many of these projects may be in collaboration with other community groups interested in similar issues as well as the City, the health unit and the school boards.
This summer, TREA has created a couple of resources that can help you in your personal commitment to reducing your impact on the environment:
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Waste Free Tool Kit:
On the TREA website, there is a compilation of resources that can help you start a lower waste journey, including a 30 Day Waste Reduction Challenge, Waste Reduction Guide, and a Waste Free Survey.
For teachers - There are FREE curriculum guides for talking about waste to Grades 3-7 and one for Grade 8. The materials are suitable for both substitute or permanent teachers, as well as a TREA presenter. They outline the influences that impact our purchasing power, and discuss how we can make more informed choices.
For parents - There are multiple resources for children including a Kids Waste Free Survey, Waste Activity Booklet and a Kids & Family Take Action on Waste Workbook. These are incredible resources for keeping kids engaged in the conversation and for some fun things to do as a family!
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“How to Take Action” Videos - The TREA team produced video style workshops throughout the pandemic to introduce viewers to some new topics like Composting, Building Raised Beds, Community Gardens, Emergency Preparedness with Climate Change in Mind, Geothermal Energy Transfer Systems, and more! Check them out here.
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Thing Library - Just like a library is a place where you can borrow books, a Thing Library (also known as a library of things or a tool library) is a place where you can borrow things. Thing libraries have been around for many years, and there are hundreds of them around the world, including in Toronto, Guelph, and Kitchener-Waterloo. Now, a Thing Library is coming to London!
In September 2021, The Thing Library will launch! This project is the result of a partnership between Reimagine Co and TREA, with support from the City of London, Libro Credit Union, London Community Foundation and SSHRC.
Learn more about the Thing Library here.