Over the past decade, the state of our environment has become a major focus of Rotary Clubs. The Cataraqui-Kingston Club has joined in this new international focus with enthusiasm. As a result The Rotary Club of Cataraqui-Kingston has made protecting the environment one of its major service priorities. Here are the main ways the club works to improve and promote the environment in the Kingston area:
- Funds local environmental projects
- Through its Community Service Project Grants, the club provides funding to local charities and non-profit organizations for projects that protect or restore the environment. Protecting the environment is one of the club’s seven funding priorities.
- Supports habitat restoration and native plant projects
- The club has funded initiatives such as the Queen’s University Society for Conservation Biology’s Edible Native Garden, which increases native biodiversity, provides habitat for pollinators, and promotes sustainable landscaping.
- Educates youth about environmental science
- The club sponsors local high school students to attend Adventures in the Environment, a four-day experiential program where students work with scientists from the St. Lawrence River Institute, learning field biology, conservation, and environmental science.
- Encourages environmental leadership
- By supporting students in environmental education programs, the club helps develop future environmental leaders who can apply their knowledge in schools and the community.
- Makes environmental stewardship a club priority
- Club leadership has identified the environment as one of its principal areas of focus alongside youth and food security, ensuring environmental projects receive ongoing attention and resources.
- Promotes sustainability through community partnerships
- The club collaborates with local organizations, schools, universities, and community groups on projects that encourage conservation, environmental education, and sustainable practices.
- Raises awareness of conservation issues
- Guest speakers and club programs regularly feature topics such as conservation biology, native ecosystems, and environmental stewardship, helping educate members and the wider community.
Overall, the Cataraqui-Kingston Rotary Club promotes environmental stewardship by funding conservation projects, educating youth, supporting habitat restoration, fostering community partnerships, and making environmental protection a core part of its service mission.
