SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT NETWORK SOCIETY

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT NETWORK SOCIETY (SENS) The Sustainable Environment Network Society (SENS) has been an environmental advocate in the community for over 40 years. SENS began in 1971 as a volunteer group which initiated a paper and glass recycling pilot study, then ran the recycling depot in Vernon (one of the first in BC) as the “North Okanagan Recycling Society”. This function was later taken over by the Regional District of the North Okanagan. Our present name has allowed us much more scope and allowed a broader mandate to provide a healthy sustainable future for our community. We have worked with the City of Vernon for decades to bring in new ideas on Smart Development (not sprawl) that supports densification down town (more eyes on the street for safety!) preserves green space for residents, and encourages carpooling and active, healthier alternatives to single use vehicles. We also have encouraged the City to include many progressive Official Community Plan (OCP) ideas that preserve green space and make Vernon a much more liveable community. Our general events on the 4th Thursday of most months, September through May, are free. Speakers present on a variety of local or provincial environmental issues (e.g. air quality, health effects of pesticides and alternatives, sustainable architecture, global climate change, smart growth and livable communities, and future possibilities with alternative energy). Every year we organize the February Sustainability Film Fest complete with follow-up documentary discussion led by local experts; Seedy Saturday in March gives garden support talks and supports sales by local food and seed producers and education by ‘green’ non-profits; May‘s Electric Car Show continues to grow with many examples of e-bikes and even an electric boat available for show and, for some, trial drives; our Handmade Holiday afternoon in November provides options for making gifts for Xmas rather than buying items shipped from elsewhere. Please join us!