Mission and Strategic Initiatives
The mission of First Things First Okanagan is to
promote awareness of climate change and work to find solutions for a better future.
Strategic purposes and activities:
Goal 1: Inform Okanagan communities about the consequences of climate change and inspire them to take action.
Actions:
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Work with local libraries to develop climate change displays that feature books and other resources.
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Develop a public presentation on climate change that can be given to community audiences.
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Work with schools to develop programs and teacher training sessions on climate change and reducing energy use.
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Produce a series of brochures on climate change (general and topics relevant to the Okanagan –water supply, drought, wildfire)
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Write regular columns on alternative energy solutions
Goal 2: Lobby representatives from all levels of government to support policies that reverse the build-up of greenhouse gases.
Actions:
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Write letters to provincial and federal representatives encouraging them to take quick and definitive action to address climate change.
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Meet with municipal and regional district council members and climate action community members to promote a climate action agenda that includes community power initiatives.
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Research the climate change mandates and targets adopted by of various levels of government
Goal 3: Inspire individuals and communities to reduce their GHG footprint.
Actions:
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Initiate a FTFO sustainable energy project and invite the community to participate
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Organize an electric vehicle (EV) event and provide EV information
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Facilitate access to GHG footprint calculators and hold competitions for GHG reductions
Goal 4: Network with other regional organizations to strengthen climate change awareness and stimulate effective action.
Actions:
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identify other groups that have goals compatible with FTFO and seek a mutually beneficial affiliation
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Engage with affiliated groups through joint meetings or webinars and collaborate on publications and activities
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Promote collaborative actions and projects