Her Environmental Philosophy classes include teaching about reducing the use of plastic, consumer choices (to value, and take care of, what we already have), as well as composting.
Dr. Houle shared her experience of becoming more involved in community projects after some challenging advice given by a Anishnabe elder: “Too much talking, do something”.
This led to Dr. Houle’s involvement with community organic vegetable gardening and composting, as well as a Guelph-based initiative aimed at reducing waste during the student housing transition time at the end of the school year.
The very successful ‘Operation Separation’ was initiated by Guelph local Kalev Jaason after he grew tired of witnessing the waste year after year. The documentary based on this, aptly titled ‘Diverted’, can be viewed below.
After Dr. Houle’s talk, CFUW members had the opportunity to follow up with further questions and discussion.
Plastics Moment
Lorraine Kuepfer and Anna Stratton spoke about alternatives to using plastics, and provided a fabulous display offering examples of ways to reduce plastic usage in our own homes.
Our CFUW Stratford Advocacy group is working on several environmental initiatives including waste reduction.