Kingston Sustainability Centre
Community
Education
Change
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this place?
The Kingston Sustainability Centre is a Youth-led, not-for-profit, centre for collaboration around sustainability. It is a community space for people to learn, educate and make change for a better future and to help Kingston reach its vision of becoming Canada’s Most Sustainable City.
What do you do here?
Located in a convenient downtown hub, we engage with people who are looking to discuss ideas, issues and actions to live a more sustainable life. Our partners provide information and displays in the centre and our community classroom is open to host events, information sessions, meetings, and school groups. Collaboration is the key!
How is this place funded?
The Kingston Sustainability Centre was founded and is funded by private local businesses.
Does the City Own it?
The City of Kingson is a collaborative partner with the KSC along with many other organizations and businesses.
How long have you been here?
The KSC has been open and running since July, 2009. Our grand opening was in November, 2009.
How do I go about putting solar on my house?/wind/renewable energy?
The best resource for information about renewable enegry is Kingston's Not-for-Profit Renewable Energy Cluster SWITCH. Visit thier website at www.switchkingston.ca We are also partners with Renewable Energy Plum Hollow who are a local supplier and installer of renewable energy technology.
Where can I take my E-Waste and where does it go?
For all electronic waste, we encourage people to visit the Ontario Electronic Stewardship Program web page www.ontarioelectronicstewardship.ca/ to learn and understand where, how and what E-Waste can be collected. Follow directions on the site to find a drop-off near you.
Where can I get a Green Bin? Why doesn’t the city pick up Green Bins at my apartment?
Green bins, along with other recycling bins, can be picked up at the Kingston Area Recycling Centre located at 196 Lappan's Lane. For specific questions about pick up at your place of residence call 613 546 0000
What are Home Energy Audits?
Homeowners should consider having a Home Energy Audit conducted. Hearthmakers is a local Not-For-Profit expert in this field. An audit consists of an expert coming to your home, conducting the audit, providing you with a list of suggestions to make your home more energy efficient, and finally conducting a post audit upon completion of your projects. Auditors can also help you apply for Government Grants.
Do school groups come here?
Yes! Through a collaborative effort with our interns and three Bachelor of Education students, edcuational programming has been created for the centre. Programs focus on food, waste, water, energy and wildlife conservation. Tours are also available.
How does the KSC practice sustainability?
Many people in the community have stepped up to make the KSC a sustainable space.
Features include:
- A programmable thermostat
- Energy efficient lighting
- Flooring provided by a leading company in sustainable design
- Placed a brick in the toilet to reduce water consumption
- Employees bike, walk and take the bus to work
- A vermicomposting bin
If you have a way to make our centre more sustainable, we would happily accept it!
What is Sustainable Kingston?
Sustainable Kingston is a volunteer-based, integrated community sustainability plan. To find out more or get involved visit www.sustainablekingston.ca
How do I become a partner?
For details on partnership, please Contact Us!
How do I use the classroom?
For details on using the classroom, please Contact Us!
What is the Wolf Island Wind Farm?
The Wolfe Island Wind Project is operated and was developed by the Canadian Renewable Energy Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canadian Hydro Developers, Inc., located directly on Wolfe Island, a few kilometres off the shore of Kingston in the Township of Frontenac, Ontario. Subsequently, TransAlta Energy Corp. acquired Canadian Hydro Developers, Inc. on October 5, 2009. This 197.8 MW wind plant is comprised of 86 wind turbines and each turbine has a rated capacity of 2,300 kilowatts.