As we step into the new year with aspirations for positive change, there's no better way to kick-start a season of hope and inspiration than by joining the City and Sustainable Kingston at the much-anticipated Climate Change Symposium.

Scheduled for Jan. 29, the Symposium will return to Kingston Grand Theatre, bringing together environmental enthusiasts, experts and community leaders to explore topics under the theme ’Balance: Climate, Nature and Technology’.

This topic encompasses what we strive for in our community. Together, we will explore how we can create balance to advance climate action and safeguard biodiversity. Talks will delve into the intricacies of biodiversity, technology's role in climate resilience, and collaborative strategies for a balanced and resilient future.

Let’s talk climate action, together!

Each year, we bring together remarkable speakers to lead engaging and informative discussions that will leave you inspired and motivated to act. This year will be no different!

Bob McDonald, one of Canada's most prominent science journalists and the host of the award-winning CBC radio show, Quirks & Quarks, will provide a virtual keynote address. Bob will bring audiences on a journey of exploration through the incredible technologies available now and in the future, with a sense of optimism and hope for the new green age.

Ewa Jackson, Managing Director at ICLEI Canada and leading expert in local climate adaptation and resilience, will also join the speaker lineup to deliver an inspiring talk, exploring the importance of effective climate communication. Through this engaging presentation, Ewa will address the who, what, why, when and how of talking about climate change with any audience. Audience members will get a chance to apply the lessons presented in Ewa’s talk.

I’m also thrilled to welcome Ali Hassan as event emcee. Ali is the dynamic and engaging host of CBC's Laugh out Loud and moderator of Canada Reads, and we’re delighted to welcome him back for the third year.

Get your questions ready! Both talks will be followed by a live Q&A.

Meet the biodiversity panel!

The symposium will also feature a thought-provoking panel discussion on biodiversity with experts Holly Evans, Maureen Buchanan, and Shannon Lem. They will explore diverse topics, including watershed health, Indigenous-led conservation, and community engagement, providing profound insights into climate resilience.

• Holly Evans joined Cataraqui Conservation in June 2001 and has worked in several business areas including watershed monitoring, clean water programs and natural heritage, source water protection and development regulations. As the Watershed Planning Coordinator, Holly leads watershed monitoring and reporting for Cataraqui Conservation. This includes surface water, groundwater, benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, snow, and other watershed characteristics. Information is used to report on watershed conditions, identify concerns and inform management decisions.

• Maureen Buchanan is a guiding force with All Our Relations Land Trust - a charitable organization formed in 2022 by urban Indigenous community members within Katarokwi (greater Kingston area, Ontario). It is a culmination of aspirations expressed by community members for a cultural and natural space that is cared for by the community.  Establishing this Land Trust allows community members to hold land in perpetuity and establish a meaningful relationship with land in an urban setting. It offers a way for Indigenous Peoples to take direct action for biodiversity restoration and cultural resurgence and to safeguard lands for future generations of all our relatives in an area at risk of increasing urbanization and development.

• Shannon Lem is the Executive Director of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network and has been working in conservation, landscape stewardship and community engagement for over 15 years. Before joining the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network, Shannon worked at Credit Valley Conservation helping facilitate private land restoration and Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plans (SNAPs).  The Frontenac Arch Biosphere was established by the local conservation community to raise awareness about our unique geology and biodiversity, as well as the people who live here.

What is biodiversity? Why is it an important part of mitigating the climate emergency? What's the biggest concern facing our region? These questions (and more!) will be answered during this panelist discussion.

How to watch

Kingston Grand Theatre

Join the conversation at Kingston Grand Theatre! Tickets are available at KingstonGrand.ca –$20 for general admission and $15 for students.

During breaks and after the symposium, you'll also have the chance to connect with local environmental advocates and city leaders at a small exhibit inside the venue.

Thanks to the generosity of Kingston Transit, attendees can enjoy complimentary transit to and from the venue. Simply show your ticket and ride for free!

If you're interested in attending in-person but are unable to purchase tickets, please request complimentary tickets using Sustainable Kingston’s online form.

Livestream from the comfort of your home

While the event will return to Kingston Grand Theatre for the first time in three years, we’re pleased to continue offering a livestream option! Stay comfy and watch the event starting at 1 p.m. on the City of Kingston YouTube channel. 

In lieu of payment, virtual attendees are asked to consider a donation to the Kingston Community Climate Action Fund. The Fund helps local non-profits and charities carry out projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One hundred per cent of funds donated support local climate action initiatives.

Together, in-person or virtually, let's engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and inspire one another to take actions that will ripple through our community, leaving a lasting impact on the balance between climate, nature, and technology.

Secure your tickets or save the date. I hope to see you there!