Environment and Climate Action

ECAC carries out projects and initiatives to support a greener and healthier Old Ottawa South community. It acts as the primary liaison between the OSCA Board and relevant environmental organizations and bodies across Ottawa and beyond, to promote environmental awareness and a sustainable community. 

ECAC’s focus is on issues related to climate change, pollution, waste reduction, enhancing the local natural environment, and promoting sustainable living. ECAC also advises OSCA on policies and activities related to the environment.

Structure 

ECAC’s chair is a member of the OSCA Board of Directors. ECAC currently has four subcommittees: trees, waste reduction, Green Dreamers, and natural areas.  

Meetings

ECAC meets twice a year, spring and fall to review current activities, talk about new ones, and set goals for the next year. All committee members are encouraged to attend and other members of the community are welcome. 

ECAC subcommittees meet on an ad hoc basis and are always looking for new members.

Please reach out to envirocrewOOS@gmail.com for details.

Objectives for 2025

  • Look at the data from our Neighbourwoods tree inventory to estimate the current tree canopy, species and age profiles, and identify gaps that need attention
  • As stewards of the OOS urban forest, seek opportunities to increase our tree canopy and preserve existing trees to prevent hot spots and mitigate temperature fluctuations and extreme climate events 
  • Continue to hold a major recycling event in April and October. Look for opportunities to recycle/reuse/repurpose items that might otherwise end up in landfill 
  • Hold a repair café
  • Ensure best practices in OOS residents’ use of blue, black, and green bins
  • Participate in Cleaning the Capital on Bank Street and Brewer Pond in spring and fall
  • Continue to work with the City and the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority to control invasive species and  enhance the natural area around Brewer Pond
  • Continue to be an active member of Community Action for Environmental Sustainability (CAFES)
  • Continue to be a member of the Windsor Park Fieldhouse project to ensure net-zero and green considerations
  • Be open to opportunities and suggestions from OOS residents to further our goals of reducing waste, increasing biodiversity, and ensuring a healthy environment 

Committee Documents