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The Importance of Clean Technology
Climate change has been around for centuries, but recently its development has been exponentially sped up by the impact of human activity. The root cause of this impact arises from the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that we use in many of our daily activities. Many GHGs are created when we burn fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas, but there are many other sources such as methane from the excretions of cows. These GHGs all carry different levels of potency, but carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most prevalent and addressable due to human activity. What we see as a result is rising temperatures in many areas of the world and the destruction to many ecosystems as their natural environments become imbalanced. Agriculture is also another practice that contributes to rising concern of global warming.
Deforestation occurs to create land for farms, but this reduces the amount of trees to convert CO¬2¬ back into oxygen. Additionally many fertilizing chemicals are used in farming procedures including nitrous oxide which is close to methane in its potency (NASA, 2016). Our current levels of emissions lead to global temperature rise, warming oceans, shrinking ice sheets, natural disasters such as droughts, heavy rains, severe storms and also ocean acidification due to the immense amount of human induced CO2 production. If we want to address this alarming rate of destruction, we have to fundamentally alter the way we live our daily lives and how we operate our businesses.
The good news is that countries and cities from around the world are recognizing climate change as a reality and are actively looking to address it aggressively. The Paris Agreement was birthed in December of 2015 and is marked to be enacted in 2020. It is the world’s first legally binding global agreement and is aimed at limiting temperature increase to 2oC. The goal is to get this number down to 1.5oC as that would dramatically reduce the long term risks of climate change. This is a daunting task but the council composed of 195 nations has agreed to reconvene on a 5 year basis to “set more ambitious targets” (European Commission, 2016).
Canada has followed in these footsteps and created numerous declarations and initiatives to complement the Paris Agreement. The Vancouver Declaration on Clean Growth and Climate changes aims to mitigate and reduce the levels of GHG emissions to 30% below that of the 2005 level (City of Vancouver, 2015).
In the coming years more cities will take on similar initiatives as the road is paved by the leaders. In these movements it is crucial for businesses to adapt and support the need for changing industries. This is where the clean technology industry comes into play. This industry produces products, processes and services aimed at reducing the amount of waste and require no or few non-renewable resources. Surprisingly, it is Canada’s first new industry in the 21st century. It spans 10 diverse sectors including everything from agriculture to power generation.
From the average person’s standpoint it seems that the cleantech industry only covers solar power, wind turbines, waste management and the like. However, it also permeates into the consumer market with clean energy vehicles, household generators and energy management systems, to name a few.
The 10 Sectors of Canada’s Clean Technology Industry
As of 2015, 50,000 Canadians were employed within the clean technology industry across roughly 800 various firms. BC is leading the way in terms of “go green” initiatives including the creation of the first North American carbon tax. Greater Vancouver is at the forefront, providing tools and events to help clean technology businesses grow and succeed (Analytica Advisors, 2015).
However, meeting the Vancouver Declaration will require support from all fronts, not just the government. It will require businesses that are willing to innovate and play their part in promoting clean technology. It will require financial institutions and investors who are willing to support these businesses. It will also require consumers who are conscious about the purchasing decisions they make and how it affects the environment around them.
The Greater Vancouver Clean Technology Expo & Championship brings these three groups together to promote and celebrate the clean technology industry. It aims to:
- Grow awareness of the clean technology industry within in our own backyard
- Connect investors to clean technology businesses, allowing them a chance to receive funding
- Provide educational experiences to clean technology businesses who are looking to improve and take their business to the next level
- Encourage innovation by recognizing the top clean technology company as the #CLEANTECHCHAMP of 2016
Come by the City of Surrey City Hall – one of BC’s clean energy hubs – on Wednesday September 28th, 2016 to take part of this Expo & Championship. The event will be open from 10AM – 4PM and registration is free for general attendees. With registration, you’ll receive an Expo package upon signing in at the event, as well as access to see the latest clean technologies that Greater Vancouver has to offer.
Another new year approaches: Surrey 2022 here we go! But with the new Covid restrictions, where are you going to enjoy this Friday night, whether you intend to celebrate New Years Eve or just celebrate because it’s Friday?
We have a list, albeit a short one, of restaurants that are open on New Year’s Eve.
Dominion Bar & Kitchen, Surrey BC | Instagram post.
Open until midnight. Reservations are recommended but not a must. This Surrey restaurant is well known for their Canadian dishes, complemented by an exciting list of cocktails, BC wines, and local craft beer, in an open concept restaurant with high top tables and chairs. Bones: they will be offering an all day happy hour on Friday.
The Clayton, Surrey BC | Instagram posts.
Open until 2am. The Clayton is a unique choice. Although there will not be a party they do have a DJ, along with classic tasty Canadian dishes and appetizers, plus 3 incredible fire tables available in their fully covered & heated patio spaces. Also, they have a ton of drink specials, just in case you might be drinking responsibly during your visit.
The Cabin, Crescent Beach – Surrey BC | Pan-seared halibut, Instagram Post
Open until 10pm. Featuring a $60 New Year’s Eve menu, The Cabin is a solid choice for a Pacific Northwest experience featuring seafood, “AAA” steaks, gourmet pasta, local craft beers, and a healthy selection of wine. It should be noted, as of right now, 7:30pm onwards is fully booked, however we’ve been told there might be some cancellations. You can and should put your name on the waitlist.
Afghan Kitchen, Surrey BC
Open until 10pm. Featuring traditional Afghan cuisine. If you live in Surrey, you know this place is amazing. If you don’t, that’s ok, just watch this episode about them on CBC Vancouver’s YouTube. Mom’s cooking never tasted better. Now, perhaps you’re saying to yourself, “Nothing special here, where’s the party!?” however, since many restaurants are closing early this year, and especially living in one of the most diverse cities in BC, what better way to enjoy your end of year than with a local culinary “staycation” at one of Canada’s top 100 restaurants!
With that said, last but not least by any means:
Kathmandu Bar & Grill, Surrey BC | Instagram post.
Open until 1130pm. Serving a delicious blend of Nepalese, Indo-Chinese, and Western Cuisine. Like we said, while in Surrey, try something new. Allow your tastebuds to create a mini celebration for you, safely at your table.
Have we helped? We certainly hope so!
No matter how you plan to enjoy this Friday December 31, stay safe, stay warm and we wish, as always, the very best for you and your family.
See you next year!
Desire Kokuvi Amouzou
There is something beautiful about walking or biking along a trail full of trees with changing leaves and this is the perfect time of year to experience it. Surrey Centre has some amazing trails to explore in the Green Timbers and Holland Park areas that are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a jog, a bike ride or a family affair that the pets and kids can join. Here is a list of the best trails to check out.
Holland Park Loop
Holland Park is a popular park in Surrey, one that hosts plenty of outdoor events, music festivals and gatherings. On top of that, the park also includes a trail loop perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Holland Park Loop is 0.8 kilometres long and is good for all skill levels. The trail is popular for walking, running, and road biking. There are often dogs seen on the trail when it’s nice out, and it’s a great place to take the family and kids. This loop is best used from April to November.
Birch and Willow Trail
Part of Green Timbers forest, the Birch and Willow Trail is a 1.8-km loop. This trail offers scenic views as it features a lake that is often full of ducks. It’s a great walk for kids as well, and has plenty of signs to follow. The trail is popular for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. The gravel makes it a nice trail even on a rainy day.
Birch Salal and Douglas Loop
Another loop in Green Timbers is the Birch, Salal and Douglas Loop. This is a bit longer at 2.9 km. This loop also features the lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is flat with lots of shade. It’s a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride. There is an area for picnics by the lake where you can take a rest after your exercise. This trail is often used for hiking, walking, running, and biking. There is limited parking in the area, so be prepared to walk to the trail.
Salmonberry, Yellow Arum, Douglas Fir and Hemlock Loop
If you are looking for a longer trail in Green Timbers, you will find the Salmonberry, Yellow Arum, Douglas Fir and Hemlock Loop. This is a 5.6-km loop. As the name implies there are beautiful trees along this hike. The trail is acceptable for all levels, though it is a bit longer so it’s best to prepare ahead. The trail is popular for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. In certain spots the trail comes close to the road, and some areas can be waterlogged at times, but it’s an enjoyable walk all the same.
Hawthorne Park Loop
Hawthorne Park Loop is a 1.9-km trail in beautiful Hawthorne Park. There is a lot of nature to take in here including plenty of beautiful wildflowers making this loop a favourite among birdwatchers. Good for all skill levels, this trail is popular for walking, running, and nature trips. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be on a leash. This area is very popular amongst hikers and runners, for good reason.
Willow, Cedar and Pine Trail
There is one more Green Timbers trail worth mentioning. The Willow, Cedar and Pine Trail is a 2.6-km back trail. The lake is accessible from this trail as well and it is suitable for beginner hikers. This loop is great for a walk or run.
Lack of affordable housing has quickly become one of the largest barriers in preventing homelessness in British Columbia. Having served the Lower Mainland for the past 50 years, Options Community Services and Habitat Housing Society are working to provide safe, affordable rental units for the local community.
Options provides essential social services in Surrey, Delta, White Rock/South Surrey and Langley. Recently, the organization has partnered with 50 local women to help raise $1.5 million in funding for a new affordable housing building in Surrey, BC. The money raised in this partnership will go towards the 100-unit complex at 81st and King George Boulevard. Of these 100 units, 30 will be market rentals, while the remaining 70 will be well below market rates —designated as affordable housing, with rent starting as low as $375 per month. This building and the resources connected to it will make a monumental impact on the community. Here are 5 ways that this building will directly impact Surrey:
1. Additional Resources:
Not only will the affordable housing build feature 100 new rental units, but it will also feature several community services provided by Options. These services include Early Years, special needs services for children and mental health outreach. Having these programs available for tenants in the building will be a bonus for all.
2. Build Relationships:
Whether it’s a social worker or an elementary school teacher, having and maintaining long-lasting relationships is crucial to establishing roots in a community. These networks of support will help at-risk individuals and vulnerable people build stability in their lives and increase their sense of community. Knowing there are people in your neighbourhood that can help support you can be a relief for individuals who do not have friends, family, or any other source of support.
3. Accessibility:
Currently, the housing market is very hot and the number of buyers is outnumbering the available stock. This applies to both home buyers and renters who are looking for affordable places to stay. This building offers 100 brand-new units that are affordable for low-income families. These families otherwise might not have any other options to turn to and be forced to consider unsafe housing conditions. Priced at $375 monthly for a one-bedroom, these homes can change the lives of those who are in need.
4. Increased Safety:
By having a door to lock and a place to call home, the safety and security of the community is enhanced. Far too often, vulnerable peoples are subjected to unsafe conditions or forced to make tough choices. Many of these individuals are women fleeing violence, refugees, displaced seniors, at-risk youth or persons living on a disability income. . Housing such as this will better protect these groups and ensure that they have access to safe, secure and affordable places to live.
5. Job Growth:
The success of our vulnerable community members is a success for us all. In communities with affordable housing, there is often a growth in job opportunities. A study by the New York State Association for Affordable Housing found that affordable housing projects created nearly 330,000 jobs in New York between 2011 and 2015, with many of them being permanent or long-lasting contracts (source). From engineers to health care workers, the growth of a community can directly contribute to an increased demand for workers.
The Women of Options campaign was created to support the build at King George and 81st. More information and a profile on each of the 50 Women of Options can be found at womenofoptions.ca. Community support is vital to ensure its success. To learn more about ways to help or donate, please visit womenofoptions.ca.
The City of Surrey moves a step closer in eliminating the negative environmental impacts of plastic bags and other single-use Items.
At last night’s Regular Council Meeting, Council approved the Communication and Education Plan to prepare businesses for the ban on plastic bags and foam takeout container and cups, planned to begin in November 2021.
“I’m proud that Surrey is anticipated to be the first city in the Metro Vancouver region to implement a ban on plastic checkout bags,” says Mayor McCallum.
“Council has been leading the way on green initiatives and this step is proof of the measures we are prepared to take to protect and better our environment. This move affirms Surrey’s commitment to reducing landfill waste and pollution created by these types of materials.
In the coming months, we will be working closely with our business community to support them on this very important initiative that is good for our citizens, our communities and our City.”
The City will lead a comprehensive communication and education plan to help businesses phase out and eliminate the use and distribution of plastic checkout bags, foam cups and take-out containers.
The plan outlines key tools, resources and awareness activities which will prepare businesses and the public for the upcoming ban.
The plan will include:
- A business toolkit;
- Virtual information sessions;
- Brochures; and
- Additional engagement activities and resources.
Other municipalities, provinces, and the federal government are making similar commitments to reducing unnecessary waste and pollution caused by short-lived plastics that are designed for limited use with limited recyclability.
For more information on Surrey’s please visit our site.
Surrey Libraries is excited to announce the addition of O’Reilly eBooks to its list of online resources. This platform offers over 35,000 eBooks and 30,000 hours of video courses on technology, business, design, science, engineering, travel, hobbies, health and more, all free with a Surrey Libraries card!
O’Reilly has books and videos for makers, gamers and tinkerers. There are more than 100 hobbyist titles including a STEAM Lab for Kids and The Lego Build-It Book, Volumes 1 & 2. More than 900 books from the “For Dummies” series are included, as well as over 150 titles on job-seeking and career development.
The resource also has technology learning paths like SQL Fundamentals – SQL for Data Analysis and Database Design, case studies like “Pinterest’s Journey to the Cloud,” and countless hours of video instruction on topics like Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, Linux Fundamentals, or Amazon Web Services.
O’Reilly is one of many online resources Surrey Libraries offers its members. No library card? No problem! Sign up for a card online or visit any one of ten branch locations.
We’re excited to welcome you back to our branches! Check our website for information on hours and available services and what we’re doing to keep everyone safe.
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