Here’s how BIPOC youth-led nature groups are adding colour to the great, white outdoors

Why It Matters

Many racialized youth face barriers to accessing nature, but bridging this gap can improve their physical and mental health, and also help bring more Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) into Canada’s very white environmental sector.

Full video: An in-depth conversation with the authors of Sacred Civics

Why It Matters

Cities are facing a reckoning post-pandemic — the ways they are designed have pushed communities further into the margins than ever before. These authors argue it’s imperative to put humanity, spirituality, and a connection to nature back at the centre of urban design.

“Hospicing the old world”: An in-depth conversation with the authors of Sacred Civics

Why It Matters

Cities are facing a reckoning post-pandemic — the ways they are designed have pushed communities further into the margins than ever before. These authors argue it’s imperative to put humanity, spirituality, and a connection to nature back at the centre of urban design.

Callers are dialing 211 in droves during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are reaching out for the very first time.

Why It Matters

The COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating pre-existing inequities around food access, mental health services, and income support. United Way Centraide Canada’s findings suggest the virus is also impoverishing Canadians who were previously secure. Non-profits and government programming will need to be ready for an increase in demand.

Is Sidewalk’s departure the end of the road? 10 lessons for communities building their own smart and inclusive cities

Why It Matters

Sidewalk Labs’ dream was to build a next-generation, high-tech neighbourhood in Toronto as a showcase for what cities of the future could look like. It was one of the highest-profile and most anticipated projects of its kind, anywhere in the world. Their successes, failures, and decision to walk away has lessons for communities across Canada.

Partnered

Designing cities with health in mind has never been more important

Why It Matters

COVID-19 has highlighted that our health outcomes are linked to socioeconomic factors – and those in turn are affected by where and how we live. Now is the time for social purpose real estate to help lead our recovery efforts towards more equitable, regenerative, and healthier communities for all. This series on social impact real estate is crafted in partnership with Windmill Developments and Urban Equation.