Non-profits reduce emissions, boost climate resilience

Non-profit organizations are implementing solutions to address climate change in the Columbia Basin, supported by Columbia Basin Trust. A total of 21 projects are underway, focusing on upgrades like fire-resistant siding, improved insulation, solar panels and heat pumps—all aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing resilience to climate impacts.

“Non-profits provide essential services to people in the region. Improving their buildings or adding renewable energy sources not only helps reduce emissions but also strengthens their ability to respond to challenges like wildfires or extreme heat,” said Ulli Mueller, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “We’re proud to support these groups in creating more sustainable and climate-resilient communities.”

These projects include infrastructure or operational upgrades that improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions or enhance climate resilience. Learn more at ourtrust.org/npsmart.

See current recipients below.

Here are a few examples:

A Jaffray community hub goes green

The Jaffray Community Hall is the hub of the community, hosting activities like bingo, town hall meetings, weddings and funerals. The Sand Creek Community Club is upgrading the hall’s lighting to LED, installing solar panels on the roof and adding a heat pumps.

“The heat pump will decrease natural gas consumption while providing proper air ventilation, and the LED lighting will help reduce electrical consumption,” said Krista Damstrom, Community Coordinator. “In addition, the solar will reduce greenhouse gases while offsetting the high cost of electricity.”

Wasa hall tackles wildfire risks

With no fire protection in the area, the Wasa Recreation Society is adding fire-resistant exterior siding to the Wasa Community Hall. At the same time, it is improving the hall’s insulation and installing new energy-efficient windows.

“Climate action is a task for all of us, and it concerns all of us,” said Karen Markus, Project Lead. “The purpose of this project is to improve our energy efficiency and add resiliency against climate change by addressing the problem of wildfire. Plus, we may become an example that will encourage others to take action on their own properties—another way to make a difference.”

Harrop community centre enhances resiliency

The Harrop and District Community Centre Society is keeping both energy efficiency and challenging weather events in mind as it undertakes upgrades on Harrop Hall. Its activities include installing an air-source heat pump, an air purifier and LED lighting, and improving the insulation of floors, ceilings and the hot-water tank.

“By replacing natural gas emissions in all but the coldest weather and reducing heat loss, we will reduce energy consumption,” said Gillian Hurn, Chair. “In addition, this project will allow us to use the hall to offer heat, air conditioning and wildfire-smoke relief to our local community under extreme weather conditions.”

A Valemount office reflects environmental values

The Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association is taking a range of steps to upgrade its office building, including adding LED lighting, attic insulation, solar panels and an air-source heat pump. It is also installing sprinklers for wildfire protection and a pump to drain water that may pool at the front of the building.

“We want our office building to reflect our values by reducing energy consumption and being more resilient to climate change and emergencies,” said Curtis Pawliuk, Executive Director. “By retrofitting our building, we want to lower our energy and maintenance costs, create a more comfortable environment for our staff to work in, and reduce our environmental footprint.”

Columbia Basin Trust supports the efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visitourtrust.org or call 1.800.505.8998.

Lead image: Jaffray’s Sand Creek Community Club is enhancing energy efficiency and climate resilience, with support from Columbia Basin Trust. Columbia Basin Trust photos

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