HEART OF QATHET

For our children and grandchildren

A group of like minded people started Powell River Climate Action Society (now qathet Climate Alliance) in November of 2015. The first event was a march to draw attention to the Paris Climate Agreement event.

We are committed to educating residents, businesses and local governments about the impact of our lifestyle choices with the hope of reducing our collective climate footprint.

Some accomplishments include a speaker series, the publication of the Powell River Eco City Footprint, Meatless Mondays, a vegan cookbook, and the regular CAPRicorn newsletter, which is available at the library. Members say they are encouraged by the significant number of electric vehicles in Powell River and qathet as well as electric charging stations. Learn more on the Facebook page.

LEARNING AND ACTION: qathet Climate Alliance volunteer Cynthia Barnes (above) hopes to help locals turn their care and concern into meaningful change.

Cynthia Barnes started undertaking Community Economic Development projects in the 90s in Summerside, PEI. One of her favourite projects at that time was the development of a Farmers’ Market in co-operation with the Bedque Bay Environmental Management Association.

When she moved to Vancouver, Cynthia started up an international college. This job was followed by work as the education director at West Moberly First Nations.

“I have always been driven to make my world a better place and it is a thrill when my aspirations match up to the needs of my community. My volunteer work with qathet Climate Alliance and with the Green party gives meaning to my life.”

How did you start working with qCA qathet Climate Alliance?

Cynthia • I was introduced to the group. This was timely as I had recently retired and was unsure of my new direction. Climate Action was a passionate concern and this new group provided the direction that I was looking for.

What attracted you to qCA?

Cynthia • The above original meeting led to the formation of Powell River Climate Action Society. Our name was changed several years ago to honour Tla’amin and to indicate our desire to connect with allies in the struggle. I feel an obligation to take care of our planet given the climate emergency/catastrophe.

What part of the work is the most satisfying?

Cynthia • Apart from working with like-minded others; organizing great events, hosting speakers, producing pamphlets, and feeling like I am making a contribution is what interests and inspires me.

What part of the work do you find the most challenging?

Cynthia • Lack of funding and attracting young people are a challenge. I also find it puzzling why so many of our leaders seemingly do not care about the future of their children and grandchildren.

What do you wish other people knew about the work qCA does?

Cynthia • Many of us in Canada have enormous privilege, but we will likely be among the last to experience the most extreme effects of climate change. The City of Powell River has acknowledged that we have a climate emergency. We welcome partners, who will share our passion and our work. We meet on Sundays at the Recreation Complex, and we can be reached at climateactionpr@gmail.com. We welcome new members and supporters.

How has qCA changed your life?

Cynthia • I have made and met really good and inspiring friends. I have learned a lot and have become more and more aware of our responsibility to our children and to the planet.