Climate Advocacy on Salt Spring Island
Advocacy with Transition Salt Spring
The TSS Advocacy Circle works to drive practical, community-driven solutions to reduce emissions and increase resilience to extreme weather events by changing local policies and priorities.
We advocate for climate action across all sectors, from sustainable transportation and land-use policies to protecting our natural areas.
By collaborating with local governments and organizations, we strive to keep climate action at the top of the agenda for Salt Spring's future.
Our advocacy efforts are guided by the Salt Spring Climate Action Plan and the follow-up Report Card that measures our progress towards 250+ local climate actions.
Key Projects & Initiatives
Local Policy Collaboration
We’re bringing community leaders together to shape a shared vision ahead of anticipated updates to the Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaw. By working closely with the Islands Trust, CRD, and other local agencies, we help keep climate action and community resilience at the heart of land-use and policy decisions.
Water Conservation & Watershed Protection
Partnering with North Salt Spring Waterworks District, we launched the WaterSavers rebate program and continue to advocate for watershed-level governance and sustainable water practices.
Building Resilient Ecosystems
By supporting initiatives like invasive plant reduction events and piloting neighbourhood wood chipping programs, we reduce fire risks and contribute to healthier, more resilient ecosystems.
Waste Management Solutions
Transition Salt Spring supports better waste solutions, including the CRD-funded woody debris collection pilot, aimed at reducing open burning and improving local waste management practices.
Sustainable Transportation
We advocate for expanded cycling infrastructure and alternative transportation options with groups like Island Pathways to improve mobility and sustainability across Salt Spring, in collaboration with local organizations and government bodies.
Community Education & Engagement
We host educational events and webinars on local planning processes, and engage local organizations in collective action on building a resilient future for our community and our ecosystems. We will be launching public education on Salt Spring's revised Official Community Plan to advocate for climate-friendly solutions to the affordable housing crisis.
Get Involved WITH TRANSITION SALT SPRING ADVOCACY
Be part of Salt Spring’s journey toward a sustainable future. Join us in advocating for climate solutions, resilient communities, and a greener tomorrow.
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ADVOCACY STORIES
Housing summit sets table for OCP review
A recent housing summit on Salt Spring Island has laid the groundwork for a comprehensive review of the island’s Official Community Plan (OCP). Spearheaded by Jon Cooksey, a prominent figure in local food security initiatives,…
Announcing the Water Savers Rebate Program!
As climate change brings longer, more intense droughts, our precious freshwater resources are at risk. By capturing rainwater, you can reduce your reliance on costly water from the district for non-essential tasks while ensuring your…
Steps Forward, Miles to Go: Salt Spring’s Climate Report Card 2023
How far has Salt Spring come since launching its ambitious Climate Action Plan 2.0 in 2021? In this short and powerful presentation, Kacia Tolsma walks us through the 2023 Climate Report Card, offering a reality…
WHAT OUR COMMUNITY IS SAYING
"As a climate activist and MP, I rely on the grassroots work of committed people around the country. But it is hard not to boast about the climate activists of Salt Spring Island! Transition Salt Spring is amazing - effective, positive and professional. I am so very grateful!"
- Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament for Saanich-Gulf Islands