Did you know that Camp Kawartha is home to one of Canada’s most sustainable buildings – the Camp Kawartha Environment Centre?
Constructed in 2009 by Fleming College’s Sustainable Building Program, the Centre features strawbale construction, rainwater harvesting, passive and active solar systems, a living roof, geothermal heating, reclaimed materials and a host of other sustainable features. The Centre is a unique partnership between Camp Kawartha, Trent University, Fleming College and the Gainey Foundation.
The Camp Kawartha Environment Centre actually has more nature in and around the site, then before the building was constructed. That is because we have rewilded by planting trees, establishing pollinator gardens and a permaculture garden. Our observation beehive helps to provide bees that in turn pollinate our apple trees. The Centre provides environmental programming for students, a venue to train student teachers and early childhood educators in environmental education. It is an exemplar of sustainable design for Trent students and community members. The Centre also provides a venue for community environmental education.
Sometimes when it comes to environmental education, we think only about reducing harm (reducing carbon, waste, pollution and energy consumption). The Camp Kawartha Environment Centre is inspiring because it shows what “good” can look like. It demonstrates in both a simple and profound way how people and nature can share the same space, so that both can thrive. And we think this a message worth sharing.
To find out more visit: https://campkawartha.ca/environmental-education-centre/
