Annual Report 2015-2016 - Province of Manitoba2 MANITOBA ROUND TABLE SUST 2015-2016 ANNUAL REPORT...
Transcript of Annual Report 2015-2016 - Province of Manitoba2 MANITOBA ROUND TABLE SUST 2015-2016 ANNUAL REPORT...
ANNUAL REPORT 2015 – 2016
M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
F O R
S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T
ANNUAL REPORT 2015 – 2016
M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
f o rS U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016
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T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER ............................................................................1
MESSAGE DE LA MINISTRE ................................................................................... 2
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2015-16 ....................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION TO THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE ............................................. 3
DUTIES OF THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE .......................................................... 4
POWERS OF THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE ....................................................... 5
MEMBERS OF THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE ..................................................... 6
ACTIVITIES OF THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE .................................................... 7
May29,2015Meeting–ManitobaLegislature............................................... 7
October14,2015Meeting-ManitobaLegislature.......................................... 7
January6,2016Meeting–ManitobaLegislature............................................ 7
COMMITTEES AND TASK GROUPS OF THE MANITOBA ROUND TABLE ............... 7
MANITOBA EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS ....................................... 8
MEMBER BIOGRAPHIES ....................................................................................... 11
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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E M I N I S T E R
The Honourable Janice Filmon
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
Room 235 Legislative Building
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0V8
Your Honour:
This report marks another year for the Manitoba Round Table for Sustainable
Development in its legislated role as an advisory body to the Manitoba government in
accordance with The Sustainable Development Act.
I am pleased to present Your Honour with the 2015-16 Annual Report for the
Manitoba Round Table for Sustainable Development.
Sincerely,
Original signed by
Honourable Cathy Cox
Minister
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M E S S A G E D E L A M I N I S T R E
Son Honneur l’honorable Janice Filmon
Lieutenante-gouverneure du Manitoba
Palais législatif, bureau 235
Winnipeg (Manitoba) R3C 0V8
Madame la Lieutenante-Gouverneure,
Ce rapport marque, pour la Table ronde manitobaine sur le développement
durable, une année de plus au cours de laquelle elle a rempli son rôle d’organisme
consultatif du gouvernement du Manitoba, comme le prescrit la Loi sur le
développement durable.
J’ai le plaisir de vous soumettre le Rapport annuel de 2015-2016 de la Table ronde
manitobaine sur le développement durable.
Je vous prie d’agréer, Madame la Lieutenante-Gouverneure, l’expression de ma
considération distinguée.
La ministre,
Original signé par
Madame Cathy Cox
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H I G H L I G H T S O F 2 0 1 5 - 1 6
In 2015-16, the Manitoba Round Table for Sustainable Development held the
Manitoba Excellence in Sustainability Awards to honour contributions to sustainability
in Manitoba. The winners and honourable mentions were announced at an awards
reception at the Manitoba Legislature on January 6, 2016.
I N T R O D U C T I O N T O T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
The Manitoba Round Table for Sustainable Development was established on
proclamation of The Sustainable Development Act on July 1, 1998. This is the 2015-16
Annual Report of the Manitoba Round Table as required by Section 4 of the Act.
The Manitoba Round Table is an advisory body to the Manitoba government.
Its role is to advise and support government in making decisions that are
environmentally, socially and economically responsible. The Round Table is an integral
component of Manitoba’s Sustainable Development Strategy.
Members are appointed by the Minister of Sustainable Development. Bringing
a broad range of experience and technical expertise, and representing regions and
sectors across the province, Round Table members contribute to sound and informed
implementation of sustainable development strategies in every aspect of public
administration. To reflect government’s commitment to sustainable development
and to emphasize the cross-departmental responsibilities in implementation, cabinet
ministers serve as members of the Manitoba Round Table. During 2015-16, there were
23 members of the Manitoba Round Table.
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D U T I E S O F T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
The duties of the Manitoba Round Table, as legislated by The Sustainable
Development Act are:
• Creating awareness and understanding of sustainable development
• Co-operating with public-sector organizations, private industry, non-government
organizations and the public to share knowledge and experience
• Reviewing the principles and guidelines of sustainable development to ensure they
are comprehensive and contemporary
• Advising on development and review of the Sustainable Development Strategy
• Advising on development and review of sustainability indicators
• At the request of the minister, reviewing existing or proposed policy, legislation,
regulations or programs for consistency with the principles and guidelines, and
reporting to the minister with recommendations
• Establishing mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating implementation of
sustainable development strategies and activities
• Other tasks and activities related to sustainable development, at the request of
the minister
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P O W E R S O F T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
The Manitoba Round Table may:
• Make its own rules of procedure, including procedures of committees
• Identify, promote and encourage projects and activities that exemplify sustainable
development practices
• Initiate, sponsor and support seminars, workshops and conferences related to
sustainable development
• Conduct studies and investigations, and advise and make recommendations to
the minister, on matters related to sustainable development, other than matters
involving the gathering of evidence to determine whether or not specific persons
or bodies are complying with the provisions of the act and the regulations
• Publish reports and other materials
• Do all things necessary for the effective carrying out of its duties under The
Sustainable Development Act
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M E M B E R S O F T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
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Honourable Tom Nevakshonoff, Minister of Conservation and Water Stewardship (Chair)
Honourable James Allum, Minister of Education and Advanced Learning
Honourable Steve Ashton, Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation
Honourable Kevin Chief, Minister of Jobs and the Economy
Honourable Deanne Crothers, Minister of Healthy Living and Seniors
Honourable Ron Kostyshyn, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development
Rob Altemeyer, Member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly for Wolseley
Robert Brunel, Mayor of the Municipality of Ste. Rose and Grain Producer, Ste. Rose
Brian Dempsey, Environmental Engineer with Standard Aero, Winnipeg
Bruce Duggan, Director of the Buller Centre for Business, Providence University College and Principal, Boke Consulting, Otterburne
Kaeryn Gregory, Sustainable Building Consultant, Stantec, Winnipeg
Zack Gross, Overseas Projects Officer and Fair Trade Manitoba Outreach Coordinator, Manitoba Council for International Cooperation, Sandy Hook
Curt Hull, Climate Change Connection Program Manager, Manitoba Eco-Network, Winnipeg
Kristina Hunter, Environmental Health and Sustainable Development Instructor, Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Earth, Environment, and Resources, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg (Vice Chair)
Sharon McKay, Executive Director, Aboriginal Knowledge & Culture Division, University College of the North, Thompson
Shaunna Morgan Siegers, Regional Advisor for Manitoba, Indigenous Leadership Initiatives, Winnipeg
Diane Orihel, Freshwater Ecologist, Winnipeg
Karen Peters, Freelance Writer and Researcher, Winnipeg
Andrea Redsky, Principal, Faraday Elementary School, Winnipeg
Dimple Roy, Director of the Water Program, International Institute for Sustainable Development, Winnipeg
Anika Terton, Project Officer, International Institute for Sustainable Development, Winnipeg
Ron Thiessen, Executive Director, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society Manitoba, Winnipeg
Scott Tibble, Grain and Cattle Producer, Realtor, Certified Auctioneer and Appraiser, Swan River
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A C T I V I T I E S O F T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
In 2015-16, the Manitoba Round Table continued to explore and make
recommendations related to sustainable development. The group provided advice to
government to help make responsible environmental, social and economic decisions
for Manitoba.
M A Y 2 9 , 2 0 1 5 M E E T I N G – M A N I T O B A L E G I S L A T U R E
Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship staff presented Manitoba’s draft
Climate Change Strategy, after which the Round Table members had a thorough
discussion about the strategy and provided their comments and feedback.
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Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship staff presented Manitoba’s
Climate Change and Green Economy Action Plan, after which the Round Table
members discussed the plan and provided their comments and feedback. Manitoba’s
Sustainable Development Act was also discussed and the Round Table provided
recommendations on how to enhance the act.
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The development of new environmental rights legislation for Manitoba
was discussed and the Manitoba Round Table provided their comments and
recommendations. The Round Table chairperson and Manitoba Conservation and
Water Stewardship staff provided the Round Table with an update on the activities
of Manitoba’s delegation participating in discussions at the United Nations Climate
Change Conference, COP21, in Paris in December 2015.
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C O M M I T T E E S A N D T A S K G R O U P S O F T H E M A N I T O B A R O U N D T A B L E
Priority issues and responsibilities of the Manitoba Round Table are handled
through task groups or committees focused on specific aspects of sustainable
development as prioritized by the Round Table. The following committees were active
during 2015-16:
S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y A W A R D S S E L E C T I O N P A N E L
Members: Kaeryn Gregory, Zack Gross, Kristina Hunter, Karen Peters, Dimple Roy
• Evaluated submissions for the 2015 Manitoba Excellence in Sustainability Awards and
recommended winners and honourable mentions to the Round Table for approval.
S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T A C T R E V I E W C O M M I T T E E
Members: Bruce Duggan, Curtis Hull, Kristina Hunter, Karen Peters, Andrea Redsky,
Dimple Roy
• Reviewed The Sustainable Development Act to ensure the act remains relevant and
is adequate to achieve its purpose, which is to create a framework through which
sustainable development will be implemented in the provincial public sector and
promoted in private industry and in society generally.
M A N I T O B A E X C E L L E N C E I N S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y A W A R D S
To recognize Manitobans who embrace the spirit and principles of sustainable
development, the Manitoba Round Table established the Manitoba Excellence in
Sustainability Awards in 2008. The awards recognize and honour people, projects
and ideas that successfully apply the Principles and Guidelines of Sustainable
Development in concrete and lasting achievements.
For the 2015 awards, the Sustainability Awards Selection Panel reviewed
submissions in eight categories. The Manitoba Round Table announced the 2015
winners at an awards reception on January 6, 2016, at the Manitoba Legislature.
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2 0 1 5 W I N N E R S A N D H O N O U R A B L E M E N T I O N S
A C T I O N O N C L I M A T E C H A N G E , A I R Q U A L I T Y A N D E N E R G Y E F F I C I E N C Y A W A R D
Aki Energy, Winnipeg
• This Indigenous-led social enterprise partners with the Fisher River Cree Nation,
the Peguis First Nation, the Sagkeeng Cree Nation and the Long Plain First Nation
to install community-wide geothermal energy systems. These geothermal projects
have significant benefits for Aki Energy’s First Nation partners including long-term
employment in the community, green economy business development opportunities,
energy bill reductions and environmental benefits.
S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y I N W A T E R A N D N A T U R A L A R E A S T E W A R D S H I P A W A R D
Skownan First Nation, Skownan
• Skownan First Nation was instrumental in the designation of Chitek Lake Provincial
Park. This is the first provincial park with Manitoba’s new Traditional Indigenous
Use designation, which supports cultural and economic integrity by honouring the
Aboriginal and treaty rights of the Skownan First Nation’s members to continue
traditional land-use practices within the park.
Honourable Mention: Municipality of Westlake-Gladstone
• The former municipalities of Lakeview and Westbourne, now the Municipality of
Westlake–Gladstone, donated a package of conservation agreements to the Manitoba
Habitat Heritage Corporation. Taken together, these agreements comprise the
largest perpetual conservation agreement in Canada. These agreements will ensure
the land remains available for grazing while also protecting wetlands that provide
flood control, water quality enhancement, protection from drainage, carbon storage
and wildlife habitat.
S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y I N P O L L U T I O N P R E V E N T I O N A N D P R O D U C T S T E W A R D S H I P A W A R D
Lake Friendly, South Basin Mayors and Reeves, Winnipeg
• Lake Friendly has developed the Lake Friendly Marking System, a voluntary
continuous improvement certification program that recognizes individuals and
organizations that have adopted ‘lake friendly’ practices. The initial focus is on
municipal governments and workbooks were developed to help local government
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leaders demonstrate excellence in water management through governance and
leadership across their operations.
Honourable Mention: Simplot Canada II, Portage la Prairie
• Simplot Canada II produces frozen French fries and formed potato products at a
plant in Portage la Prairie. The company undertook a pilot scale composting project
for industrial waste that was successful in producing ‘class A’ quality compost.
E D U C A T I O N F O R S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y A W A R D
Sigurbjorg Stefansson School, Gimli
• Education for sustainability has been a key focus at Sigurbjorg Stefansson School
and it has participated in the Eco-Globe Recognition Program since 2009. The
school has focused on enhancing the classroom culture by utilizing the natural
environment. Successful initiatives include the creation of outdoor learning
spaces, an outdoor classroom, a greenhouse and raised crop gardens that create
opportunities for hands-on learning.
Honourable Mention: Environmental Activist Team and Teacher Colleen Dawson, Lord
Selkirk School, Winnipeg
• Students in grades four to six have created and lead the Environmental Activist
Team at Lord Selkirk School. The students learned about sustainable practices and
healthy living, and have shared that information with the student body, staff and
community. The team also learned about and took charge of composting, recycling
and biodiversity within the school, school yard and community.
I N N O V A T I O N A N D R E S E A R C H F O R S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y A W A R D
Village of Dunnottar
• The Village of Dunnottar undertook almost 10 years of research and testing to
develop a low-cost, low-maintenance method of reducing nutrients in the effluent
being released from municipal lagoons. Following a successful pilot project, a full-
scale passive filter using natural media was constructed in 2014 that has met or
exceeded all testing parameters.
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C H A M P I O N F O R S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y A W A R D
Stantec, Winnipeg
• Stantec is using its local operations to showcase, enhance and promote
sustainability initiatives in the community. The consolidation of staff at the new
central downtown location created an opportunity to introduce a partnership with
Peg City Car Co-op, a bike fleet, carpooling, a bus pass program, organic waste
collection and a green cleaning program.
S U S T A I N A B L E C O M M U N I T Y A W A R D
NorWest Community Food Centre, Winnipeg
• This community food centre in northwest Winnipeg focuses on access to healthy
food, food skill development and community engagement. The centre meets
immediate needs for free meals while also building a strong community and skills for
personal change through community gardens and programs that teach people how
to grow and cook healthy food.
O U T S T A N D I N G A C H I E V E M E N T A W A R D
FortWhyte Alive, Winnipeg
• FortWhyte Alive is an environmental and sustainable living centre that teaches and
demonstrates the cornerstones of sustainability. The centre provides environmental
education, natural and cultural heritage programs and outdoor recreation
opportunities. FortWhyte Alive is working to enhance the sustainability of its
operations through their 2015 Sustainability Action Plan which includes actions and
targets to increase sustainability in energy, emissions and transportation, water use,
waste diversion and procurement.
Honourable Mention: Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre, Oak Hammock Marsh
• Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre increases public understanding of the
values of wetlands and encourages public support for their conservation through
innovative education and outreach programs. The centre has welcomed more than
two million visitors since it opened in 1993, connecting them with the natural and
cultural heritage of the area.
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M E M B E R B I O G R A P H I E S(As of March 31, 2016)
Honourable Tom Nevakshonoff – Chair Minister of Conservation and Water Stewardship
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyfortheInterlake
Tom Nevakshonoff was first elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 1999,
as the member for the Interlake and was re-elected in 2003, 2007 and 2011. In 2009,
he was appointed legislative assistant to the Minister of Conservation as well as to the
Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation. He was also appointed deputy speaker
in 2011. Tom was raised in the Interlake communities of Poplarfield and Fisher Branch.
He graduated from Carleton University in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts (Hon.) in Eastern
European studies.
Honourable James AllumMinister of Education and Advanced Learning
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyforFortGarry-Riverview
James Allum was elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 2011, as the
member for Fort Garry-Riverview. He was appointed Minister of Education and Advanced
Learning in 2013. Prior to that, he served as legislative assistant to the Minister of
Finance.
James came to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba following a fifteen-year career
with the City of Winnipeg. In 2001, he joined the Chief Administrative Officer Secretariat
where he served in a variety of positions including Corporate Projects Officer, Executive
Assistant and Policy Advisor to the CAO, Acting Environmental Coordinator, and Senior
Consultant in Strategic Management. His last post was as the Manager of Aboriginal
Initiatives in the Office of the CAO.
James holds a Ph.D. in Canadian and Environmental History from Queen’s University.
James taught part-time in the Department of History at the University of Winnipeg from
1999 to 2006, served as Chair of the Manitoba Heritage Council from 2002 to 2006,
and was named Chair of the Council on Post-Secondary Education for the Province of
Manitoba in 2008.
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Honourable Steve AshtonMinister of Infrastructure and Transportation
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyforThompson
Steve Ashton was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature in 1981. He was re-
elected in the general elections of 1986, 1988, 1990, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011.
He was appointed Minister of Highways and Government Services in October 1999
(later changed to Transportation and Government Services) and Minister responsible
for The Gaming Control Act in July 2000. He was appointed Minister responsible for
Emergency Measures in October 2001. In September 2002, Steve was appointed Minister
of Conservation and in November 2003, became the first appointed Minister of Water
Stewardship. In September 2006, Steve was appointed as Minister of Intergovernmental
Affairs and Minister responsible for Emergency Measures. In October 2009, he was
appointed as Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, Minister Responsible for
Emergency Measures and Minister Responsible for the Manitoba Lotteries Corporation.
Steve is a graduate of R.D. Parker Collegiate in Thompson. He received a Bachelor of
Arts (Hon.) in Political Studies from the University of Manitoba and a Master of Arts in
Economics from Lakehead University. Steve has lived in Thompson since 1967.
Honourable Kevin ChiefMinister of Jobs and the Economy
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyforPointDouglas
Kevin Chief was first elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 2011, as
the member for Point Douglas. He was appointed Minister of Children and Youth
Opportunities in 2012 and Minister responsible for the City of Winnipeg in 2013. Kevin
currently serves as the Minister of Jobs and the Economy.
Before entering politics, Kevin spent a decade working in education as Coordinator
of the Innovative Learning Centre at the University of Winnipeg, Director of the Winnipeg
Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre and Community Networker with the River East
Transcona School Division. Kevin graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a
Bachelor Degree majoring in Justice.
Honourable Deanne CrothersMinister of Healthy Living and Seniors
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyforSt.James
Deanne Crothers was first elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for
St. James in 2011. In 2014, she was appointed Minister of Healthy Living and Seniors.
Deanne is an instructor who appreciates the importance of education to today’s families
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and communities. She holds an Honours degree in Cultural Studies from Trent University
and specializes in literacy and English as an Additional Language. For five years Deanne
worked with adults who had lost their jobs to improve their literacy skills before re-
entering the job market. Prior to this, she worked as an adult literacy instructor and
helped adults obtain their GED diplomas while improving their reading, writing and
math skills.
Honourable Ron KostyshynMinister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development
MemberoftheLegislativeAssemblyforSwanRiver
Ron Kostyshyn was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for
Swan River in 2011. Ron has served as the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural
Development since 2012. Ron was also appointed to hold office as Minister of
Infrastructure and Transportation and the Minister responsible for Emergency Measures
Operations, from December 2014 to April 2015.
Ron also served as Reeve of the RM of Mossey River and was on council for two
decades. He has also served on various boards including the Association of Manitoba
Municipalities, Manitoba Conservation Commission, Intermountain Conservation District,
Ethelbert District Veterinary Board, Farm Stewardship Association of Manitoba, and the
Ethelbert Curling Club and Skating Rink.
Rob Altemeyer Member of Legislative Assembly for Wolseley
Winnipeg,MB
Rob Altemeyer was first elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in 2003 as
the member for Wolseley and was re-elected in 2007 and 2011. Rob has served as
Legislative Assistant to a variety of departments, and most recently was appointed to
be Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Family Services, the Minister of Housing and
Community Development, and the Minister of Conservation and Water Stewardship. Rob
also serves as Assistant Deputy Speaker at the Legislature. His political focus reflects
the priorities of his constituents, namely poverty reduction, strong public services and
environmental sustainability. Rob graduated from the University of Manitoba with a
Bachelor of Arts and Master of Natural Resources Management.
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Robert BrunelMayor of the Municipality of Ste. Rose and Grain Producer
Ste.Rose,MB
Rob Brunel is a farmer and the Mayor of the Municipality of Ste. Rose. He has served
as President and Vice President of Keystone Agricultural Producers. He has chaired the
Keystone Agricultural Producers’ Grains, Oilseeds and Pulses committee as well as the
Environment and Water Management committee. He also chaired the Manitoba Young
Farmers committee and served on the Canadian Young Farmers Forum board.
Brian DempseyEnvironmental Engineer
Winnipeg,MB
Brian Dempsey is an Environmental Engineer with Standard Aero. He is the former
Environmental Coordinator and Corporate Ethics Director at Standard Aero. Brian
has experience in ISO 14001 implementation, electroplating, and chemical handling
and disposal. Brian is a chemical engineering graduate of the Georgia Institute of
Technology.
Bruce DugganDirector, Buller Centre for Business at Providence University College and Principal, Boke Consulting
Otterburne,MB
Bruce Duggan is the Director of the Buller Centre for Business at Providence
University College. He also operates Boke Consulting, which focuses on “green”
economic development. Bruce is a member of the Green Faith Alliance, an alliance of
various faith-based members to address climate change. He has a Master of Business
Administration.
Kaeryn Gregory Sustainable Building Consultant
Winnipeg,MB
Kaeryn Gregory is a Sustainable Building Consultant with Stantec and Past-Chair of
the Board of the Green Building Council – Manitoba Chapter. Kaeryn is the Team Lead
for Stantec’s Manitoba and Saskatchewan High Performance Buildings Team. She is
responsible for the development and delivery of sustainable building services within the
Buildings Engineering group.
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Zack Gross Overseas Projects Officer and Fair Trade Manitoba Outreach Coordinator Manitoba Council for International Cooperation
SandyHook,MB
Zack Gross has spent over 40 years working in international development assistance
and global citizenship education, including 25 years as Executive Director of the Marquis
Project in Brandon and 10 years at the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation
(MCIC). Zack is also a sessional instructor in International Development Studies through
Menno Simons College at the University of Winnipeg and facilitates online courses in
the University of British Columbia’s Diploma Program in International Development
Studies. For the past twenty years, he has written a regular column for the Brandon Sun
on global social and environmental issues. Currently living in the Interlake, Zack leads
Youth Community Partnership, a program that supports active youth citizenship in the
Gimli area. In 2002, Zack received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for his local and
global community efforts.
Curt HullClimate Change Connection Program Manager with Manitoba Eco-Network
Winnipeg,MB
Curt Hull is project manager with Climate Change Connection. Curt has a passion
for climate change education and action, a strong background in project and financial
management, and a history of community involvement. Curt is a professional engineer.
Prior to coming to the Manitoba Eco-Network, he worked for 25 years as Director of
Quality Systems with a Winnipeg-based electronics design and manufacturing company.
While there, he helped that company grow from 12 people in a small, local facility to
an international concern with manufacturing plants in three countries, offices in five
countries, and over 1,000 employees.
Since 2007, Curt has been educating Manitobans on climate change and connecting
with groups seeking solutions. In 2010, Curt was trained by the Honorable Al Gore in
Nashville and became part of the global Climate Reality Project.
Kristina Hunter – Vice ChairEnvironmental Health and Sustainable Development InstructorUniversity of Manitoba
Winnipeg,MB
Kristina Hunter is an instructor in the University of Manitoba’s Clayton H. Riddell
Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources. She teaches in the fields of environmental
health and sustainable development. She has also taught in the Master of Business
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Administration Program since 1999. Kristina is active in many community environmental
organizations including the Manitoba Eco-Network, Manitoba Environmental Industries
Association, Friends of Churchill Parkway and Earth Day Manitoba. She has been
involved with research in environment and health, specifically indoor air quality and
environmental tobacco smoke, as well as environmental conservation, restoration and
communication. Kristina is an advocate for greater environmental accountability in post-
secondary educational institutions.
Sharon McKayExecutive Director, Aboriginal Knowledge & Culture DivisionUniversity College of the North
Thompson,MB
Sharon McKay is the Executive Director of the Aboriginal Knowledge & Culture
Division of the University College of the North. Prior to this, Sharon was the Chief
Executive Officer of the Keewatin Tribal Council, a position she held for over 10
years. Sharon has significant experience in Aboriginal and Indigenous government
and Aboriginal non-profit organizations, having worked for Keewatin Tribal Council in
Education and Administration for over 30 years.
Shaunna Morgan SiegersIndigenous Leadership Initiatives Regional Advisor for Manitoba
Winnipeg,MB
Shaunna Morgan Siegers is the Indigenous Leadership Initiative’s Regional Advisor
for Manitoba. She is a Cree from the Waskaganish First Nation and has a long history of
living and working in remote First Nations. Shaunna has degrees in Botany and nearly
20 years of research, Indigenous knowledge and environment science experience.
Diane OrihelFreshwater Ecologist
Winnipeg,MB
Diane Orihel is a freshwater ecologist. She has 12 years of experience investigating
human impacts on aquatic ecosystems through large-scale, multi-disciplinary,
collaborative research programs. Diane has a strong track record of attracting funding,
building project teams, designing robust experiments, supervising students, and
publishing in leading environmental science journals. She is recognized as a strong
voice for freshwater science in Canada.
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Karen PetersFreelance Writer and Researcher
Winnipeg,MB
Karen Peters is currently a freelance writer and researcher. She is the former
Executive Director of the Point Douglas Residents Committee where she was in charge
of community economic development projects. Karen has a Master of Environment and
undergraduate degrees in Community Economic Development and Philosophy.
Andrea RedskyPrincipal of Faraday Elementary School
Winnipeg,MB
Andrea Redsky is the Principal of Faraday Elementary School. Her career began with
a teaching assignment at Children of the Earth High School. It was there that Andrea
developed an appreciation for education for sustainable development practices, which
include social, cultural, environmental, economic and Aboriginal perspectives.
Dimple RoyDirector of the Water ProgramInternational Institute for Sustainable Development
Winnipeg,MB
Dimple Roy is the Director of the Water Program at the International Institute for
Sustainable Development (IISD). She has a Master of Environmental Design from
the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Architecture from India. She has worked
on various aspects of watershed management, including the watershed bioeconomy
approach, water-energy-food security, and water policy and governance.
Anika TertonProject Officer of the International Institute for Sustainable Development
Winnipeg,MB
Anika is a Project Officer for the International Institute for Sustainable Development
and works with the Resilience and Energy programs. She completed a thesis on climate
change and Canadian foreign policy for her Master degree in Political Science from
the Free University of Berlin. Anika’s work in sustainable development has included
experience in the Manitoba Eco-Network’s Water and Climate Change program and
serving as an advisor on the Storm Water Master Plan Advisory Committee for the City
of Winnipeg. Anika’s international training has given her strong intercultural experience
that supports her work with diverse teams.
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Ron ThiessenExecutive Director, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society Manitoba
Winnipeg,MB
Ron Thiessen is the Executive Director of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society
Manitoba. He has worked professionally in the non-profit wilderness conservation field
for over 20 years. Ron employs his experience in Aboriginal, media, public, industry and
government relations to achieve protected areas and safeguard wildlife.
Scott TibbleGrain and Cattle Producer, Realtor, Certified Auctioneer and Appraiser
SwanRiver,MB
Scott Tibble is a Grain and Cattle Producer, Realtor, Certified Auctioneer and
Appraiser. He owns and operates a purebred cattle ranch in the Swan River Valley,
which has participated in the Habitat Canada program. Scott was a member of the
advisory committee tasked with the formation of the Federal Agricultural Policy
Framework in 2001-2003. In the past, he was co-chair of the Manitoba Bovine
Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Task Force.