Sitting around with cold beers and enthralled in conversation, individuals passionate about the environment and sustainability came together for the first Eco-Drinks event of the new year.
Part of the global movement Green-Drinks, gatherings have been hosted by the Manitoba Eco-Network since 2007. However, James Beddome, Manitoba Eco-Network’s executive director, explains the event has been inconsistent. As an “umbrella” for environmental non-governmental organizations across the province, Beddome says they want to ensure Eco-Drinks continues, as some of the most engaging conversations on climate action happen there.
“Jennifer McGray, over at Climate Change Connections, wants to speak with me today about the work she’s doing to reduce climate emissions and put food waste to use as we’re going through an affordability crisis. She thinks there are ways Eco-Network can collaborate, cooperate, and build things out.”
“We need spaces where we can get together outside of work hours, outside of our organizing, to actually have casual conversations and get to know each other. When things get difficult, that’s when you need to know each other,” Werner explains. “When we’re all together, we’re stronger, and people don’t join things that are lame and sad.”
Attendee Adrian Werner says one of the greatest challenges of social movements is making sure they’re fun. They believe Eco-Drinks brings that to the table.
Attracting people from various sectors of work potential collaboration is part of many discussions around the table, explains Laura Tyler, who spent much of the evening learning more about the work others are doing.
“It’s really interesting to see people connect the dots between the work they’re doing and what others are doing. Then, maybe they can see how they can work together, even if it’s just amplifying the work that others are doing. I’ve literally seen examples of people starting to collaborate because of events like this.”
Many of those conversations involved climate and energy. Other discussions centred on stopping the development of the Lemay Forest in St. Norbert and the ongoing efforts to protect local bird populations and Indigenous sovereignty.
Optimism was a key focus, and a board was set up to encourage participants to write down their Green Dreams for 2025. Jason Cruickshank says his Green Dream is for Manitoba to focus on electrifying transport in the coming years.
“Whether that is the electrification of public transit here in Winnipeg, two-wheel electrification with electric bikes and scooters, or electric vehicles as well. Making sure people have the support they need.”
As for the future of Eco-Drinks, Beddome says the Manitoba Eco-Network will continue to hold these events throughout the year. He adds their mission will be to encourage Winnipeggers and grassroots movements to adapt to the challenges ahead and strengthen Manitoba’s environmental community.
– Ryan Funk, U Multicultural
