Leslie Hastie is a teacher and she and her husband Ian have been inspiring and motivating people on several global issues including being activists on nuclear disarmament. She now works on global warming programs.  Leslie’s bio included the quote by Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has”.  Jennifer thanked Leslie for being a champion for change.

 

 

Leslie belongs to the group, “Climate Action Muskoka”.  In September 2019, the Paris Agreement had been signed for four years to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees.  Canada was missing its target. We were seeing more violent weather activity.  In September 2019, a global strike was called to coincide with a UN Summit on Climate and four million people around the world responded, including many in Huntsville and a group was started in Muskoka with expertise in many areas.  They asked the District of Muskoka to adopt an emergency action plan for this area.  They are working towards a green, clean equitable future. In 2020, the district endorsed the strategy, “A New Leaf: Muskoka’s Climate Strategy”.

 

There is much work for the towns to do, regarding regulations, building codes, sustainable materials, etc.  Political pressure is required.  The climate action group would like help from Rotarians in pressuring governments.  They have put out a new year resolution for a community carbon challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eight percent per year until 2030.  Members were encouraged to go to the Climate Action Muskoka website and sign the pledge to reduce carbon emissions, complete the form, and see how we each compare with others.  The page will indicate changes that we can all make, such as reducing daily cell phone usage and using cold water for laundry, repairing rather than replacing, etc.  Leslie said that there are many signs of hope.

 

Website: www.climateactionmuskoka.org    Email: climateactionmuskoka@gmail.com   

 

Brandy: Rotary is adding the environment as an area of focus.  She hopes that all Rotarians will take up Leslie’s challenge.

Cam: Asked if the trees absorb most of the emissions from burning a wood stove? Leslie: Yes.  The cheapest form of energy is solar. 

Hugh: Growth in population is at the root of the problem.  We need education and economic equality.  Leslie: Education of women is particularly important, which leads to fewer children and a better workforce.

Jennifer: Stated that it is easy to take the pledge.  Asked if Leslie was still involved with nuclear disarmament? Leslie: No.

Leslie asked that we all sign up on their email list and attend their monthly meetings.

 

Cam thanked Leslie and said that the club will enjoy working with her.