Convention Spotlight: Sustainability & environmental issues

This year's Convention offers participants 15 breakout sessions from which to choose, including several that look at sustainability and environmental issues that are affecting municipalities across Alberta.

Here are two sessions many of you will want to attend when we get together in Red Deer in late September.

Water Wisdom: Local contexts & conservation strategies

This engaging session begins with a comprehensive overview of ABmunis' updated water conservation policy, followed by a deep dive into the innovative strategies that communities, including First Nations and municipalities, are implementing to manage water resources in the face of diverse climates and aging infrastructure. Jordan Thompson (City of Lacombe), Davey Robertson (Town of Okotoks), Mario Swampy (Samson Cree Nation), and Christina Hopkins (Urban Systems) will share their knowledge and insights, ensuring you leave this session equipped with practical solutions to enhance your community’s water management efforts.

Wednesday, September 25, from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m.

Unpacking EPR: Challenges, progress & next steps for waste management

This session will delve into the evolving landscape of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Alberta, where producers are increasingly accountable for waste management. Ed Gugenheimer (Alberta Recycling Management Authority), Jon Inrig (Circular Materials), and Alex Tse (Alberta Environment and Protected Areas) will be on hand to share their informed perspectives on EPR. Attendees will have an opportunity to engage in discussions, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of how EPR will shape the future of waste management in their municipalities.

Thursday, September 26, from 1 to 2:15 p.m.