JASON SETNYK
The Benson Centre was a hub of environmental learning and engagement as the City of Cornwall hosted its sixth annual Eco Day, drawing residents, organizations, and volunteers together for a hands-on look at sustainability.
The family-friendly event featured more than 30 participating groups, interactive displays, and practical services aimed at helping residents adopt more environmentally conscious habits. Activities ranged from free mulch and compost distribution to electronic waste drop-off, bicycle safety checks, and demonstrations of the City’s hybrid transit bus and electric pickup truck.
Angela Parker, Sustainability Project Coordinator for the City, said the move to the Benson Centre marked a new chapter for the event. “It’s the first year it’s been at the Benson Centre,” she said, noting the indoor-outdoor setup allowed for a mix of activities. “Having the mulch and compost, our bicycle safety check, and the electronic waste drop-off outside, and then people can come inside and cool off, it’s a good setup.”
The busy facility also helped attract new visitors. “There’s a hockey tournament going on, so we’re getting a lot of people who weren’t aware of Eco Day, but they’re now aware of Eco Day,” Parker said. Beyond displays and demonstrations, the event focused on practical ways residents can reduce their environmental footprint. “Eco Day is a family-friendly event that encourages people to live a more environmentally friendly and sustainable life,” Parker said. “We’re hoping they walk away with more information on how to make their home more energy efficient and learn more about planting trees.”
Local groups played a central role in delivering that message. John Towndrow, chair of Transition Cornwall+, said the event provides an opportunity to connect directly with residents about climate action. “We’re very interested in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels to address climate change,” he said. “We urge people to adopt changes in their lifestyle habits, reduce their dependence on car travel, focus more on local food, and reduce their waste.” Towndrow also highlighted the importance of urban forestry initiatives. “We have a tree action group that promotes getting more tree canopy within the city,” he said. “It has a cooling effect and reduces our carbon footprint.”
At another booth, volunteer Elaine Kennedy with Transition Cornwall+’s Food Action Group encouraged residents to think about the environmental impact of what they eat. “What we can grow in our backyard, we just carry it inside and cook it up and enjoy eating fresh food,” she said, emphasizing the benefits of local gardening. In addition to educational displays, the Raisin Region Conservation Authority hosted its annual tree giveaway, continuing a long-running effort that has contributed to more than one million trees planted across Cornwall and SDG. Parker said the event’s success depends heavily on community support. “We have about 30 volunteers for the sixth annual Eco Day, the most volunteers we’ve had,” she said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to have Eco Day.”
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