The City of Vernon received two Climate & Energy Action Awards from the Community Energy Association at the Union of B.C. Municipalities annual conference this week.
The Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) Program received a Climate & Energy Action Award. The program empowers students in Grades five to 12 across Vernon and Central Okanagan schools to work on real, community-based climate and sustainability projects with mentors from multiple sectors, including the City of Vernon and City of Kelowna. Kevin McCarty, the City’s Climate Action Specialist, was also named one of the inaugural recipients of the Climate & Energy Champion Award.
“Climate action is a priority for our community, and these awards recognize the practical work happening in Vernon and across the Central Okanagan,” said Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming. “The CARE Program is a great example of what can be achieved when we engage young people, build strong partnerships and take action at the local level. I also want to congratulate Kevin McCarty on being named one of the inaugural Climate & Energy Champions. Kevin has played a key role in advancing climate action in our community, bringing people together, supporting innovative projects and creating opportunities for youth to get involved. We’re proud to see both the CARE Program and Kevin’s leadership recognized through these awards.”
Climate Action Ripple Effect
During the last school year, nearly 1,800 students, teachers and mentors participated in more than 400 projects throughout the Central Okanagan and Vernon area. Projects included regional water resources, climate adaptation, environmental stewardship, and community awareness of local climate initiatives.
In addition, the City of Vernon partnered with CARE to host a community climate event, supported by provincial funding through the Local Government Climate Action Program.
Climate & Energy Champion
The Climate & Energy Champion Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to climate action through leadership, collaboration, awareness and meaningful change. McCarty was named one of the award’s inaugural recipients for his work advancing climate action initiatives, and encouraging youth to engage in and pursue careers in Climate Action in Vernon and across the region.
The City of Vernon is proud to have the work of its students, community partners and staff recognized through these two awards.