RCE Saskatchewan-2020
Project Title:
Duration of project:
Wednesday, August 14, 2019 to Wednesday, May 13, 2020
1. Describe coordination and management of the project. Please also reflect how the RCE as a network organisation has contributed to the project. (Character count 400 words):
Planning for the RCE Saskatchewan ESD Recognition Event begins in August of each year when the location for the next event is finalized. The date is selected to accommodate our patron, the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. In October, the Event Coordinator is hired and the planning committee is struck with representatives from the largest 3 higher education partners in the province. As well, the committee includes representation from the organization hosting the event. In the case of the 2020 event this was First Nations University of Canada, also an RCE network member.
Sponsorships are sought in November and December. The application package is made public in January. Nominations forms are received until March 31st. Applications for the awards are reviewed by sustainability experts from a variety of our RCE network members. Award winners are informed mid-April and provided guidelines for their event presentations and Recognition Event guest speakers and dignitaries are arranged. Media releases are sent out just prior to the event.
The work of the committee is very collaborative, with foci on leveraging in-kind support from network member organizations and featuring the sustainability work of the host organization. The event is funded by sponsorships from a wide range of organizations and businesses, many of which are also RCE network members.
COVID 19 hit Saskatchewan in mid-March just before nominations were to close (on March 31st) and less than two months before the event was to be held on May 13th. Many events were being cancelled and most groups had not yet begun using online platforms, especially for an event of this complexity. However, the RCE felt that it was especially important to provide hope and encouragement at this time and went boldly ahead with a shift to a virtual format, despite the short time frame. The goodwill of our collaborators, both sponsors and network members, allowed us to quickly change course. Taking the event on-line event was made possible through the generosity of the IT staff in the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Regina. Similarly, our sponsors quickly approved the re-allocation of funds to allow us to develop alternatives to the traditional event offerings. The educational components of the traditional event format was replaced with a video that was premiered at the event. Similarly, in lieu of the photographs typically given to award recipients, they were provided with a video clip of their presentation and award.
Sponsorships are sought in November and December. The application package is made public in January. Nominations forms are received until March 31st. Applications for the awards are reviewed by sustainability experts from a variety of our RCE network members. Award winners are informed mid-April and provided guidelines for their event presentations and Recognition Event guest speakers and dignitaries are arranged. Media releases are sent out just prior to the event.
The work of the committee is very collaborative, with foci on leveraging in-kind support from network member organizations and featuring the sustainability work of the host organization. The event is funded by sponsorships from a wide range of organizations and businesses, many of which are also RCE network members.
COVID 19 hit Saskatchewan in mid-March just before nominations were to close (on March 31st) and less than two months before the event was to be held on May 13th. Many events were being cancelled and most groups had not yet begun using online platforms, especially for an event of this complexity. However, the RCE felt that it was especially important to provide hope and encouragement at this time and went boldly ahead with a shift to a virtual format, despite the short time frame. The goodwill of our collaborators, both sponsors and network members, allowed us to quickly change course. Taking the event on-line event was made possible through the generosity of the IT staff in the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Regina. Similarly, our sponsors quickly approved the re-allocation of funds to allow us to develop alternatives to the traditional event offerings. The educational components of the traditional event format was replaced with a video that was premiered at the event. Similarly, in lieu of the photographs typically given to award recipients, they were provided with a video clip of their presentation and award.
2. What are the current results of the project in terms of output (e.g. publications, developed practices, course materials)? (Character count 300 words):
Several objectives of the ESD Recognition Event that had to be adjusted due to the shift to an online format. One objective is to profile the local hosting organization. In this case from 9:15 to 9:30 a.m., while people were logging into the event, a number of short videos featuring First Nations University of Canada were shown, in recognition of their role as hosts. In addition, First Nations University of Canada Elder Audrey Cochrane provided an opening prayer and its Interim President, Dr. Bob Kayseas also provided formal remarks. A second objective is to have a sustainability thematic gathering associated with each event. Because this gathering was not possible, a What is RCE Saskatchewan? video was commissioned prior to the event and premiered at this event to highlight how the RCE advances ESD. Beyond the Recognition Event, the video is proving to be a strong education and communications tool. A third objective is to profile award winners. Each of the 17 award winning projects was profiled by representatives virtually attending who had three minutes to speak to their project, accompanied by 3-4 power point slides. Video segments on each presentation was made available to recipients to help them promote their sustainability work locally and within their own networks. The event in its entirely was also recorded and is available for public consumption.
3. What are the expected/confirmed outcomes (e.g. impact of the project, such as changed practices, improved capacity, institutional changes, etc.)? Please provide evidence where applicable. (Character count 400 words):
Eighteen applications were received. Two submissions were returned to the applicants for clarification. Both successfully re-submitted. One applicant declined the recognition, 17 awards were given. This is lower than usual, probably due to the lack of school submissions due to closures. Although fewer projects were recognized, all projects were represented by an attendee at the event which is not typically the case, due to travel logistics and costs.
Projects recognized:
• 2019 EECOM Action on Climate Change through Education Conference, SaskOutdoors, Sustainability Education Research Institute, Can. Network for Environmental Education & Communication
• 2020 Green Vision, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area Inc.
• Agroclimate Impact Report (AIR); a Citizen Science Initiative, National Agroclimate Information Service, Agri-Food Canada
• Campus Waste Bin & Recycling Program, Faculty of Science, University of Regina
• Design of a Conceptual Water Distribution System for the Village of Meath Park, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Regina
• Creation of EnviroCollective, EnviroCollective (Regina)
• Low Carbon Stories of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Environmental Society
• Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Studies Network, Luther College at the University of Regina
• Reclamation of Storm Water from the University of Regina Campus for Irrigation, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Regina
• Recycled PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) as Composite Structural Material, Mining, Energy and Manufacturing, Sask. Polytechnic
• Saskatchewan Master Naturalist Program, Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan
• Earth Rangers: Stand Up for the Little Guy, Earth Rangers, Nature Saskatchewan, SaskEnergy
• Stewards of Saskatchewan: Engaging Rural Landowners and Managers in Prairie Species at Risk Conservation, Nature Saskatchewan
• Triple Bottom Line, City of Saskatoon
• UN Sustainable Development Goals Staircase, Luther College Student Association
• USask Graduation Powwow Waste Reduction Initiative, USask Aboriginal Students’ Centre, USask Office of Sustainability
The "Lyle Benko Future Generations Award" for education for sustainability achievement within the K-12 system was awarded to the Cree Dictionary of Mathematical Terms for Elementary Classes, developed by First Nations University of Canada.
32 people participated directly in the Zoom event, including 19 recipients and 11 special guests. 168 people viewed all or part of the livestreamed event; the most at any one time was 40. 15 people watched all or part of the event while it remained posted for 48 hours after the event. Normally our events are attended by about 60-80 people, so the reach of this year’s event was higher than typical, although it is difficult to determine the depth of engagement.
Projects recognized:
• 2019 EECOM Action on Climate Change through Education Conference, SaskOutdoors, Sustainability Education Research Institute, Can. Network for Environmental Education & Communication
• 2020 Green Vision, Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Area Inc.
• Agroclimate Impact Report (AIR); a Citizen Science Initiative, National Agroclimate Information Service, Agri-Food Canada
• Campus Waste Bin & Recycling Program, Faculty of Science, University of Regina
• Design of a Conceptual Water Distribution System for the Village of Meath Park, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Regina
• Creation of EnviroCollective, EnviroCollective (Regina)
• Low Carbon Stories of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Environmental Society
• Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Studies Network, Luther College at the University of Regina
• Reclamation of Storm Water from the University of Regina Campus for Irrigation, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Regina
• Recycled PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) as Composite Structural Material, Mining, Energy and Manufacturing, Sask. Polytechnic
• Saskatchewan Master Naturalist Program, Native Plant Society of Saskatchewan
• Earth Rangers: Stand Up for the Little Guy, Earth Rangers, Nature Saskatchewan, SaskEnergy
• Stewards of Saskatchewan: Engaging Rural Landowners and Managers in Prairie Species at Risk Conservation, Nature Saskatchewan
• Triple Bottom Line, City of Saskatoon
• UN Sustainable Development Goals Staircase, Luther College Student Association
• USask Graduation Powwow Waste Reduction Initiative, USask Aboriginal Students’ Centre, USask Office of Sustainability
The "Lyle Benko Future Generations Award" for education for sustainability achievement within the K-12 system was awarded to the Cree Dictionary of Mathematical Terms for Elementary Classes, developed by First Nations University of Canada.
32 people participated directly in the Zoom event, including 19 recipients and 11 special guests. 168 people viewed all or part of the livestreamed event; the most at any one time was 40. 15 people watched all or part of the event while it remained posted for 48 hours after the event. Normally our events are attended by about 60-80 people, so the reach of this year’s event was higher than typical, although it is difficult to determine the depth of engagement.
4. What are the remaining challenges and/ or limitations for further development? (Character count 300 words):
We are not yet certain what format the 2021 Recognition Event will take due to ongoing uncertainty about COVID-19. This complicates the planning of the event, because of the need for contingency plans.
Even if we are able to return to a traditional format, either in 2021 or later, the move to an on-line format may have changed people’s expectations about the event. It will be challenging to determine how to best proceed, as both the tradition on-site and the on-line format have advantages and disadvantages. For instance, on-line allows broader participation, but the quality of opportunities for networking and education suffer. One solution might be a blended format, but this has cost implications which would need to be addressed.
Another COVID-related challenge may be the availability of sponsorship dollars, depending on the financial impact of the pandemic on our sponsors. This would require some creativity on the part of the organizing committee. Do we find ways to cut costs, find alternative sponsors or leverage more in-kind support from our existing network?
Even if we are able to return to a traditional format, either in 2021 or later, the move to an on-line format may have changed people’s expectations about the event. It will be challenging to determine how to best proceed, as both the tradition on-site and the on-line format have advantages and disadvantages. For instance, on-line allows broader participation, but the quality of opportunities for networking and education suffer. One solution might be a blended format, but this has cost implications which would need to be addressed.
Another COVID-related challenge may be the availability of sponsorship dollars, depending on the financial impact of the pandemic on our sponsors. This would require some creativity on the part of the organizing committee. Do we find ways to cut costs, find alternative sponsors or leverage more in-kind support from our existing network?
5. How does your project further improve capacities of various partners and stakeholders on the theme? (Character count 500 words):
Throughout its 12 years, RCE Saskatchewan’s Education for Sustainable Development Recognition Awards Event has celebrated and recognized sustainability projects as a means to build local capacity. Receiving recognition from the RCE offers a level of legitimacy to projects that helps to open doors and create opportunities. The 2020 Event was no exception, with the addition of new resources that recipients can use to publicize their work and their success – specifically, the project-specific video segments and the “What is RCE Saskatchewan?” video.
Further, the SDGs are a cornerstone of the application evaluation process, which we regard as a capacity-building aspect of the project. It helps applicants self-identify how their local projects and initiatives link to global sustainability priorities and gives them language and a framework with which they can more effectively communicate the significance of their work.
The annual RCE Saskatchewan ESD Recognition Event is critical to developing broad awareness about ESD and mobilizing future resources and capacity. This is done by acknowledging and honouring the hard work of individuals among their peers and by profiling different communities each year, especially smaller rural centres. Organizations providing support for sustainability projects hosted within them (that often go beyond their traditional organizational mandates) are also provided recognition (something that is especially important where resources are increasingly scarce for these types of initiatives). The event is central to building awareness and partnership between organizations for sustainable development (SDG 17) and, with COVID 19, the need for an event, even if it had to be shifted to an online format, was all the greater.
Further, the SDGs are a cornerstone of the application evaluation process, which we regard as a capacity-building aspect of the project. It helps applicants self-identify how their local projects and initiatives link to global sustainability priorities and gives them language and a framework with which they can more effectively communicate the significance of their work.
The annual RCE Saskatchewan ESD Recognition Event is critical to developing broad awareness about ESD and mobilizing future resources and capacity. This is done by acknowledging and honouring the hard work of individuals among their peers and by profiling different communities each year, especially smaller rural centres. Organizations providing support for sustainability projects hosted within them (that often go beyond their traditional organizational mandates) are also provided recognition (something that is especially important where resources are increasingly scarce for these types of initiatives). The event is central to building awareness and partnership between organizations for sustainable development (SDG 17) and, with COVID 19, the need for an event, even if it had to be shifted to an online format, was all the greater.
6. How does your project link to the SDGs or other global frameworks (e.g. UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Convention on Biological Diversity, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030)? (Character count 300 words):
The United Nation’s SDGs are a cornerstone of this event and of the application evaluation process where each project is required to identify which SDGs the project helps advance. This allows individuals and organizations working on sustainability in Saskatchewan to understand their work in the context of global goals and movements. As one of the earliest ESD Recognition Events held by RCEs, RCE Saskatchewan has helped (through its mentoring of other RCEs in the Americas and elsewhere) to advance the value of hosting an RCE led Recognition Event to inform, legitimize, and inspire ESD initiatives within one’s RCE region. It has also helped shape the formation of the Global RCE Awards Program (having received one of the earliest Global RCE Recognition Awards from the UNU for the RCE Saskatchewan ESD Recognition Program, awarded September 24, 2012). Considerable pioneering work has occurred each year including now the deliberate engagement of all known UN related bodies within our RCE Saskatchewan region. In addition, RCE Saskatchewan has involved dignitaries with global linkages by including Dr. Charles Hopkins, UNESCO Chair at York University (Canada) as a keynote speaker as well as other UNESCO Chairs as well as the Queen’s Representative (and RCE Saskatchewan Patron) the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan in speaking and presenting awards when available. The substantial change in format this year to an online platform meant we were able to invite other RCEs throughout the Americas to watch the awards program live as well as share the recording of the event for asynchronous viewing at a later time.