Making Waves: Dive into Climate Action and Innovation
This month we're exploring WATER
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Hello hello CN fam!
In this edition, we're diving deep into the world of water—because let’s face it, where would we be without it? We’re gearing up for World Water Week 2024, unpacking some hard-hitting lessons from Alberta’s recent water crisis, and exploring how a Canadian company is turning the tides with water as a sustainable energy source. So, grab your reusable water bottle, and let's make a splash in the latest climate conversations!
WATER - IT’S ON OUR MINDS
🤔 Did you know Canada is home to…
🌊 The HIGHEST tides in the world are experienced in the Bay of Fundy which lies between Canada’s Nova Scotia and New Brunswick provinces.
🤯 The tides in the Bay of Fundy can rise an unbelievable 16 metres (52.5 ft.), with 160 billion tonnes of seawater gushing in and out of the bay twice a day.
🔋 The Minas Passage area of the Bay of Fundy is home to an estimated 7,000 megawatts of energy potential, roughly equal to the power needs of 2 million homes – or all of Atlantic Canada’s homes.
🇨🇦 Canada has an estimated tidal energy potential of 35,700 megawatts (MW). That’s enough clean power to displace over 113 million tonnes of CO2 – equal to removing over 24 million cars off the road.
🚰 WORLD WATER WEEK 2024
Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future
Get ready to dive deep into the world of H2O! World Water Week 2024 is happening from August 25th to 29th, and it's all about figuring out how to share the planet's most precious resource without losing our cool.
This year's theme is about crossing borders and working together to keep water flowing smoothly. World Water Week will be talking about everything from making sure everyone gets enough water to survive, to keeping our rivers and lakes healthy, and even figuring out how to stop water from causing trouble.
There's going to be chats about sharing water with our neighbours, how to deal with climate change messing with our water supply, and even how to use tech to make water work harder for us. Plus, they'll be talking about how water affects different people, especially those who don't always get a fair share.
So, if you're into making a splash in the world of water, this event is for you! Best part? It's totally free to join online.
We’ll be attending and hope you will too!
💧WATER CRISIS
Calgary's Water Woes: A Wake-Up Call
Okay so here’s the deal, Calgary's had a rough time with water lately with a maximum usage limit of 480 million litres per day. It’s like a bad plumbing joke that just won’t quit.
The city dealt with leaks, shortages, and all sorts of water drama. It was a major bummer, but it's also a huge wake-up call for everyone. We need to stop taking water for granted, and start treating it like the precious resource it is.
From what we've seen, Calgary's crisis has taught us some hard lessons about planning for the future, fixing our old pipes, and being ready for anything. It's like, if Calgary can't handle it, imagine what could happen to the rest of us if we don't get our act together.
Why it matters:
Infrastructure is Everything: Calgary's water crisis highlighted the urgent need for robust and well-maintained water infrastructure. Ageing pipes and unexpected breaks can cripple a city's water supply.
Water Conservation is Key: The crisis emphasised the importance of water conservation measures, both at the individual and municipal level. From efficient appliances to rainwater harvesting, every drop counts.
Emergency Planning is Vital: Calgary's experience underscores the necessity of comprehensive emergency plans for water-related crises. These plans should include clear communication strategies, alternative water sources, and community preparedness.
🔦 IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Instream Energy Systems: Developing Clean Predictable Power Using Water as a Source of Energy
In The News: In November 2023, Instream Energy Systems started conducting feasibility studies to support Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy.
In-stream energy solutions offer consistent, reliable power generation, unaffected by weather conditions - much like a dependable friend who always shows up - making them a more stable alternative to wind and solar.
This is precisely why Vancouver’s Instream Energy Systems is turning heads with its innovative turbines that harness the power of flowing rivers and tidal currents, offering a new frontier in renewable energy.
Why It’s Happening: With Canada’s vast water resources and a growing demand for clean energy, Instream is stepping up to provide sustainable, low-impact solutions. Their tech is especially suited for remote communities looking to ditch diesel and go green.
Why It Matters: In-stream energy is a major win for the environment and the economy. Instream’s turbines could help generate up to 15% of Canada’s electricity needs, and globally, the market is expected to reach $4.3 billion by 2026. This is a big deal for a country committed to cutting its carbon footprint.
Bottom Line: Instream Energy Systems is on the cutting edge of a growing renewable sector. As they expand their projects and partnerships, they’re not just helping Canada go green—they’re setting the stage for a global shift in how we power our lives.
🇨🇦 Water Rich
Canada: The Freshwater Titan
Canada is often dubbed the "land of lakes" for good reason. We hold an astonishing 20% of the world's freshwater reserves, a bounty that supports life on an immense scale.
Our vast network of lakes, rivers, and glaciers is crucial for ecosystems, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal.
Beyond our borders, Canada's fresh water plays a pivotal role in global climate regulation. Our vast boreal forests, fed by abundant water, act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, the Great Lakes, one of the world's largest freshwater systems, influence weather patterns across North America.
Why It Matters: As Canadians, we have a unique responsibility to safeguard this precious resource. With such an abundance of freshwater, it can be easy to take it for granted. However, water scarcity is a growing global issue, and our freshwater reserves are not infinite.
Conserving water, protecting our water bodies, and advocating for sustainable water management are crucial steps in ensuring a healthy planet for future generations - starting by fixing that leaking faucet at the very least.
CN PICKS
Eat: We don’t like those samplers, said no Costco-member ever. This time around, we sampled a sesame flavoured seaweed snack! While those ones weren’t as exciting, our curiosity to find better options led us to this better rated Canadian brand you should try too.
Read: Now that we know that Canada has vast marine renewable energy resources, why not educate ourselves with facts and figures of the economic opportunities as well!
Watch: Tidal energy could be huge - so why isn't it? Here is a perfect crash course on tidal energy that’s definitely worth a watch.
Listen: If you made it this far, you’ve consumed enough information. Time for some relaxation. Enjoy this beautiful playlist of ocean sounds with music and feel closer to nature.
GAMES
Our climate-crossword is ready and waiting for you to dive in!
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🌞 Thanks for riding the wave of change with us! Enjoy the last of summer days, and let's keep the momentum going.
See you later this month for more elevating climate sessions! 🌿
The Climate North team - Chloe D'Agostini, Rebeka (Becky) Romanovsky, Fab Barrillot. Written by Tejas Shah. Supported by Julian Cheah.