The Rothney Astrophysical Observatory (RAO) at the University of Calgary serves as a nexus where teaching, research, public education, and community engagement intersect under the vast canopy of the cosmos. More than just a scenic spot nestled in the Rockies’ foothills, the RAO is on a mission to immerse school children, educators, community groups, and curious minds in the wonders of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This mission ...
Posts Categorized: Shortlist
River Valley Newsletter
The North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society
The North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society (NSRVCS) has been at the forefront of preserving Edmonton’s river valley for over 16 years, striving to be its voice and advocate for future generations. Their mission focuses on engaging communities and influencing planning to ensure decisions are rooted in conservation values. Partnering with residents, Indigenous groups, and other stakeholders, they champion the protection of natural heritage.
One of NSRVCS’ ...
Backroads Reclamation
Built from a passion for reusing wood and sharing its story, Backroads Reclamation is turning Old Canadian Wood into new wood products to last another lifetime, saving as much lumber as possible while keeping it from the landfill or bonfire.
Backroads Reclamation’s journey began in August of 2020 when founder, owner, and CEO, Jay Sanderson dismantled his first rural building after learning the intended fate of an ...
Violet Grove’s Constructed Floating Wetlands System with Aeration
Brazeau County
The Constructed Floating Wetlands system (CFWs) in Violet Grove, Alberta, aims to revolutionize wastewater treatment in colder climates. With a vision to enhance effluent quality and promote environmental sustainability, this initiative introduces innovative natural treatment processes, leveraging the efficacy of wetlands even in cold climate settings.
Serving the Hamlet of Violet Grove in Brazeau County, the project addresses the need for environmentally friendly wastewater treatment solutions in ...
City of Calgary’s Drought Resilience Plan
City of Calgary
The City of Calgary’s Drought Resilience Plan (DRP) aims to prepare the city, its residents, and businesses for the challenges posed by drought, which stands as one of Calgary’s primary climate hazards. The plan’s overarching mission is to foster a future where Calgary’s people, ecosystems, and businesses can not only withstand and recover from drought but also adapt to the increasingly dry conditions expected in the region.
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WildEdmonton
The City of Edmonton and the University of Alberta Edmonton Urban Coyote Project
WildEdmonton, a collaborative initiative between the City of Edmonton and the University of Alberta Edmonton Urban Coyote Project (EUCP), aims to monitor wildlife presence and abundance in Edmonton’s open space network. Since its inception in 2018, the project has worked towards informing sustainable city design by integrating wildlife needs into land use decision-making processes.
The project’s mission is to monitor wildlife use across the city using wildlife ...
Strathmore High School Community Greenhouse
The Strathmore High School Community Greenhouse stands as a beacon of sustainable education and community engagement. This unique project, nestled in Strathmore and Wheatland County, embodies a forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship, education, and community development.
At its core, the greenhouse serves as a free community space fostering mentorship between high school students and diverse community groups. It offers tours, workshops, and practical lessons on sustainable practices, ...
Echo Haven project
Melcom Homes
Melcom Homes’ Echo Haven project is leading the charge toward sustainable living within Alberta’s major cities including Calgary and surrounding areas. Through innovative design and cutting-edge technologies, this project aims to redefine modern living by seamlessly integrating eco-consciousness with comfort and functionality. From inception to completion, Melcom Homes prioritizes eco-friendly practices at every stage of the construction process. They meticulously select materials with low environmental impact, integrate energy-efficient technologies, ...
Ledcor Highway Maintenance Yard Upgrades
Ledcor Highway Maintenance Limited
Ledcor’s Highway Maintenance team provides services on long-term contracts covering 6700 kilometres of Provincial Highways in Alberta and is responsible for year-round, winter, and seasonal maintenance.
One of the most notable aspects of Ledcor’s approach is its proactive stance on environmental protection. Through meticulous planning and investment in yard upgrades, they have implemented innovative measures to mitigate the risk of salt contamination, a significant concern in highway ...
Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program
University of Alberta
The Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Reduction Program, led by Professors Scott Chang, Edward Bork, and Cam Carlyle from the University of Alberta, is dedicated to advancing sustainable land management practices in Alberta’s agriculture sector to combat climate change and promote agricultural sustainability. Their mission is to develop and test best management practices that enhance soil fertility, improve land management, and mitigate climate change impacts. Through extensive research and extension spanning ...