While most of us know this on a gut level, some interesting research by Gilovich at Cornell University, confirms that even though we think that buying a physical object will make us happy because it will last longer, it is really experiences like going to art exhibits, doing outdoors activities, learning a new skill, or traveling.
For the first time in 40 years, global CO2 emissions did not rise in 2014, while the global economy grew 3%. Pollutant emissions and economic growth are finally starting to decouple.
Was in Montreal yesterday for the launch of our climate action strategy, led by Dr. Caterine Potvin from McGill University. Our plan, developed by 60 + 10 scientists from across the country is a call to action for all Canadian decision makers and leaders, to achieve a decarbonized economy by 2050.
In a previous blog, I talked about the importance of multi-functional space. This article describes how libraries are curating e-books for subway riders in Beijing.
I am part of a group of over 60 scientists led by Dr. Catherine Potvin from McGill University concerned about climate action on the ground now. Our project, Sustainable Canada Dialogues, has just released an executive summary of a proposed climate action plan for Canada that is due to be released in Montreal, Canada on March 17th. This plan should be front and centre of any discussions with politicians during and after any electoral campaigns.
In one of our research projects, we explored the concept of multifunctional places, that is, buildings that have more than one purpose.
We have seen many wonderful and creative takes on how to create more sustainable and eco-friendly versions of products most people use on regular basis. One example is the biodegradable cups made of corn plastic that have cornered the festival and event market on the last few years. Imagine though, knowing that your house was built using the same forward thinking and innovation? Bricks made without the kiln, which produces massive amounts of Co2, or plastic hinges in your kitchen, made totally petroleum free.
NASA visualizes the 22,000 tons of life-giving dust that flows between Africa and South America, revealing how interconnected the world is.
“A target of net-zero emissions by 2050 is not only desirable but necessary. This is the time to redouble our efforts and further accelerate progress to decarbonize our economy. This is not going to be easy, but the earlier we act, the greater the economic opportunities will be.”
This video describes one man's way to pay back to community. How many more small steps could be taken to build better communities, pay it forward.