Over the past few weeks it might seem like the world is headed towards environmental catastrophe after the United States pulled out of the Paris Agreement, but the reality on the ground, even here in Jasper, suggests otherwise.
Everywhere you look residents, private businesses and various levels of government are investing their time, energy and money to preserve our planet and create a more sustainable future.
Take for instance news this week the province will invest $125,000 to install 208 solar panels on the roof of the high school鈥檚 gymnasium.
This small, yet significant investment will not only reduce the school鈥檚 environmental footprint, but also sends a message to the public that the province is committed to reducing its carbon emissions.
And it doesn鈥檛 stop there.
Over at Jasper Elementary School students recently launched an environmental initiative by asking businesses to stop using plastic straws. The initiative comes only a few weeks after this same group of students planted a school garden to learn about the benefits of locally grown food.
Beyond the classroom, residents are also doing their part.
Earlier this year the Jasper Local Food Society confirmed that the number of community garden plots has doubled since 2012, suggesting more and more people are recognizing the benefits of growing their own food.
Businesses and the municipality are also stepping up.
In May Jasper learned that the first all-electric school bus in Western Canada has already hit the road, and the municipality along with several hotels in town are either in the process of installing or have already installed electric vehicle charging stations.
Across the highway, Pine Bungalows is leading by example by renovating its buildings with the environment top of mind.
Over the past decade the resort has overhauled 67 cabins, set up a simple yet effective waste diversion program and installed an ozone laundry system so it doesn鈥檛 have to use hot water. All of the new buildings are also solar ready and will be able to charge electric cars when the time comes.
If that鈥檚 not enough, Jasper is also trying to install communal bins for restaurants to throw out their organic waste. Currently 40 to 50 per cent of Jasper鈥檚 waste is going to the regional landfill.
In the face of an uncertain future, it鈥檚 clear that regardless of what our neighbours to the south decide, Jasper is committed to protecting and preserving the planet and that鈥檚 something we should be proud of.
