Sofia Giambattista
POINTS TOTAL
- 0 TODAY
- 0 THIS WEEK
- 86 TOTAL
Sofia's actions
Land Sinks
Research Peatlands
Peatland Protection and Rewetting
I will spend 45 minutes researching the environmental benefits of peatlands and what is being done around the world to conserve and restore them.
Land Sinks
Plant Trees
Temperate Forest Restoration
I will plant 2 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use
Reduce Food Waste
Reduced Food Waste
I will keep a daily log of food I throw away during Drawdown Ecochallenge, either because it went bad before I ate it, I put too much on my plate, or it was scraps from food preparation, and commit to reducing my food waste throughout the challenge.
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use
Composting
Composting, Reduced Food Waste
I will start a compost or worm bin where I live.
Industry
Learn About & Practice Sustainable Fashion
Multiple Industry Solutions
I will learn about sustainable fashion and begin practicing it in my own life.
Industry
Practice the 5 Rs
Recycling
I will practice the "5 Rs" — refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle — to reduce my waste more than I can with just recycling alone.
Electricity
Learn More about Biomass
Biomass Power
I will spend at least 45 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of biomass.
Electricity
Learn More about Wave and Tidal Energy
Ocean Power
I will spend at least 45 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of wave and tidal energy.
Share Your Story
SiA Homework for Sept 11 - Intro Post
Please write a short post to introduce yourself to the class. Mention some of your interests and what program you are in. If you have some ideas for your sustainability project this semester, please share - you might find a collaborator! Inspire others with the EcoChallenge actions that you are interested in trying out. Include a photo of yourself if you like.
Transportation
Go for a Daily Walk
Walkable Cities
I will take a walk for 30 minutes each day and take note of the infrastructure that makes walking more or less enjoyable, accessible, and possible.
Transportation
Test Drive an Electric Bike
Electric Bicycles
I will test drive an electric bike at a local distributor to see if it makes sense to use one in place of my car, or to extend the area I can cover by bike.
Share Your Story
SiA Homework for Sept 4 - PRACTICE POST
On Sept 4, we will have 3 guests come talk to us about sustainability initiatives at Vanier. In preparation, please read over VANIER'S 5-YEAR SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN 2018-2023 and then write an EcoChallenge post that includes the following: - What do you think about the plan? Is it ambitious enough? Is there anything missing or superfluous? From your own observation and experience, how well is Vanier doing? List some questions that you would like to ask our speakers regarding Sustainability at Vanier? - Identify at least 3 initiatives that you are potentially interested in contributing to this semester and explain why. (Note there is a column labelled student involvement.) For more detailed information, you can also consult the 2020 VANIER ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT in the links.
Participant Feed
Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.
To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?
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Sofia Giambattista 10/16/2024 10:52 AMThanksgiving:
Key Messages from the Videos:The videos highlight the critical need to shift our focus from relentless consumption and growth to sustainability and well-being. They emphasize that true fulfillment comes not from material possessions but from experiences, community connections, and the natural world. This perspective encourages us to embrace a simpler, more intentional lifestyle that aligns with our values and supports the health of our planet.
Things I Am Grateful For:This Thanksgiving, I want to express gratitude for:- Nature's Beauty: I appreciate the serene parks and green spaces in my community that provide me with a space to connect with nature, recharge, and enjoy peaceful moments.
- Supportive Community: I’m thankful for friends and family who prioritize sustainable practices, share meals made from local ingredients, and inspire each other to live more mindfully.
- Time for Creativity: I am grateful for the moments I can dedicate to painting and other creative pursuits, which bring joy and fulfillment without harming the environment.
- Access to Sustainable Choices: I appreciate the growing availability of eco-friendly products and services that empower me to make choices aligned with my values, reducing my environmental impact.
How Degrowth Could Improve My Life:Reflecting on the concept of "degrowth," I see how embracing this philosophy could enhance my overall quality of life. Degrowth advocates for reducing consumption and prioritizing well-being over material accumulation. By shifting my focus in the following ways, I could create a more meaningful and satisfying lifestyle:- More Quality Time: By choosing to buy less and invest in experiences rather than possessions, I can spend more meaningful time with loved ones, cultivating deeper connections.
- Increased Creativity and Mindfulness: Embracing a simpler lifestyle encourages me to explore my creativity further and find joy in the process of making, whether through art, cooking, or DIY projects.
- Reduced Stress: By simplifying my life and reducing the pressures of consumerism, I can foster a more relaxed and fulfilling daily routine, leading to better mental health and overall well-being.
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Sofia Giambattista 10/06/2024 3:22 PMStarting a Compost Bin:As part of my commitment to sustainability, I’ve decided to start a compost bin for my household of five. Composting is relevant because it’s a simple yet effective way to reduce the amount of waste we send to landfills, cutting down on methane emissions and helping to create nutrient-rich soil for our garden. In a world grappling with climate change, every bit of waste we divert from landfills counts. This is one of the small steps I can take to play my role in reducing my family’s carbon footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability at home.
Of course, like any change, there are challenges. The biggest one is getting everyone on board. Not all my family members were immediately excited about separating food scraps. Some wondered if it would smell bad or attract pests, while others questioned how much difference it would actually make. There’s also the learning curve—figuring out what can and can’t be composted, like reminding everyone that citrus peels and meat products don’t belong in the bin.
To overcome these challenges, I realized we had to start small. I placed a clean, easy-to-use bin in the kitchen so it’s simple to scrape food scraps into it. I also started labeling it with a quick guide on what’s compostable, which has helped eliminate confusion. By leading by example and gently encouraging the others, I noticed they began following suit. It’s becoming more of a habit now. Collectively, it’s about awareness and patience—sometimes a little reminder about the environmental benefits goes a long way.
This process has also sparked more conversations within my family about what else we can do to live sustainably. Composting has become a teaching tool and a reminder that everyone plays a part, no matter how small the action may seem. We’re far from perfect, but with each day, we’re learning to be more mindful. -
Sofia Giambattista 9/27/2024 8:38 AMQUEBEC'S PRINCIPLES FOR A JUST TRANSITION:
Reflecting on Quebec's Principles for a Just Transition, it’s clear that this transition isn’t just about cutting emissions—it’s about ensuring justice for workers, protecting marginalized communities, and creating sustainable jobs. However, the slow government response can make it feel like real change is far off. The concern is that despite high-level commitments, including international agreements like the Paris Agreement, the government often prioritizes economic stability over aggressive decarbonization, which delays necessary action. That’s where mass demonstrations play a vital role.In past marches, I’ve seen on the news how powerful collective action can be. Banners like “There are No Jobs on a Dead Planet” highlight the need for economic justice alongside environmental action, something the Quebec principles emphasize. These demonstrations amplify voices demanding faster, fairer climate policies and make it clear that people won’t settle for half-hearted solutions.
Mass protests bring the urgency of the climate crisis to the forefront, reminding leaders that citizens expect real progress. As we work toward a just transition, it’s essential to continue showing up and pushing for the bold changes our planet and communities need.
*Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the climate march, but attached is the image of the protest banner I spoke about in this post.
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Sofia Giambattista 9/22/2024 7:11 AMPracticing the 5 Rs:In today’s world, where waste generation is skyrocketing, it’s more important than ever to adopt sustainable habits. That’s why I've been practicing the “5 Rs”—refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle—for the last 2 weeks to cut down on my waste. This action is relevant not only because it helps reduce environmental damage but also because it promotes mindful consumption. Every small choice can contribute to a larger, positive impact.
Why This MattersFor starters, the action is crucial because waste reduction is one of the simplest and most immediate ways to contribute to a healthier planet. By refusing unnecessary products (like single-use plastics), reducing consumption, reusing items, repurposing what might otherwise be discarded, and finally recycling, we can drastically lower our individual waste output. Given that global waste is projected to grow by 70% by 2050, this is more important than ever.
The ChallengesWhile the concept of the 5 Rs is simple, it’s not always easy to apply. Refusing single-use plastics or packaging when grocery shopping can be tricky, especially when convenience is prioritized in our fast-paced world. Switching to reusable containers or remembering to bring them can sometimes be a challenge when I’m rushing between classes or work. Finding sustainable alternatives to common products, like single-use plastics, can also be a bit of a hurdle.
Overcoming These ChallengesIndividually, I’ve made small but impactful changes, like using reusable containers for food storage. This started as an experiment to reduce the amount of plastic waste I generate, and now it’s a regular part of my routine. Another step I’ve taken is reducing my clothing consumption by opting for second-hand shops. Each time I thrift, I’m reminded of how much good-quality clothing already exists and how easy it is to avoid overproduction. When creating grocery or shopping lists, I focus on what’s necessary and plan around items that come with less packaging. On a collective level, we can work together by sharing resources and tips for reducing waste in our communities. For instance, encouraging schools and workplaces to provide recycling options, offer educational workshops, or make it easier to bring reusable containers could help others adopt these practices.
My RoleAs a future educator, I see my role as not only practicing these habits but also teaching them. By modeling sustainable behaviors to young children, I’m helping to shape the next generation's attitudes toward the environment. It’s about creating a ripple effect—one mindful choice at a time. -
Sofia Giambattista 9/13/2024 10:47 AMDaily 30 Minute Walk:
In an age where sustainability is at the forefront, walking has become more than just a form of exercise—it's a meaningful way to reduce our carbon footprint, improve our health, and engage with our surroundings. Lately, I’ve been taking 30-minute walks each day, not only to stay active but also to observe the infrastructure around me. Why is this action relevant? Because the walkability of a city directly influences how we move through it, and in turn, how eco-friendly our transportation choices are.On one of my walks, I noticed a beautifully paved sidewalk lined with trees offering much-needed shade. The air was crisp, and the presence of benches along the route made it inviting to slow down and take in the surroundings. This is what makes walking enjoyable—thoughtful infrastructure that encourages us to connect with our environment. However, on another walk, I came across a cracked sidewalk that made the journey more treacherous, especially when I saw a young mother with a stroller trying to navigate the uneven path. These small details can make or break the walking experience.One of the main challenges we face in promoting walkability is that many urban and suburban spaces prioritize cars over pedestrians. Take, for example, a busy intersection I passed the other day—crossing it felt like a race against time. Despite being a pedestrian, I felt like an afterthought in the grand scheme of traffic flow. Individually, it may seem like we can’t do much to fix this. But by choosing to walk, sharing these daily experiences, and advocating for better pedestrian infrastructure, we can contribute to change.
As a student in Early Childhood Education, I see this issue as particularly relevant. On one walk, I observed a group of children walking with their daycare provider. Watching them cross a street without a crosswalk made me think of the importance of creating communities that are not just accessible for adults but safe for children as well. Safe, walkable environments should be a priority for all ages and abilities. By taking action both individually—through my daily walks—and collectively—by raising awareness and advocating for better infrastructure—I play a part in making my community more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for everyone. It’s a small step, but when many people take the same step, it can lead to bigger changes.4o -
Sofia Giambattista 9/08/2024 2:01 PMWave and tidal energy (electricity) are renewable energy sources that use the natural flow of water to produce electricity. They are both part of a larger category known as marine energy, or ocean energy. Here's the breakdown of each:1. Wave Energy- Source: Wave energy comes from the movement of surface waves on oceans and seas, which are created by the wind blowing across the water.
- How It Works: Devices, known as wave energy converters (WECs), capture the kinetic energy from waves. These devices can be placed on the shore, near the shore, or further out at sea. As waves move the device, it converts the mechanical energy into electricity through turbines or hydraulic systems.
- Technology: Various types of technologies are being developed, including point absorbers, oscillating water columns, and attenuators.
- Advantages: Wave energy is a constant and reliable source of energy since waves are always in motion, particularly in oceans.
- Challenges: It’s a relatively young technology, and large-scale commercial deployment faces challenges like high costs, potential environmental impacts, and the durability of equipment in harsh marine conditions.
2. Tidal Energy- Source: Tidal energy is generated from the rise and fall of tides, driven by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun on Earth’s oceans.
- How It Works: Tidal energy is usually captured through two main methods:
- Tidal Stream Generators: These function similarly to underwater wind turbines, capturing the kinetic energy of flowing water during tidal currents.
- Tidal Barrages: These are dams built across estuaries or bays that capture potential energy as tides rise and fall. The trapped water is released through turbines, generating electricity.
- Technology: The most common technologies include horizontal-axis turbines (like wind turbines), vertical-axis turbines, and tidal lagoons.
- Advantages: Tidal energy is predictable, as the movement of tides follows a known schedule. This makes it a reliable energy source.
- Challenges: Tidal energy infrastructure is expensive, and tidal barrages can have significant ecological impacts on marine environments and local ecosystems.
Key Differences Between Wave and Tidal Energy:- Wave energy is generated by wind-driven waves, while tidal energy is generated by the gravitational forces from the moon and sun.
- Wave energy can be less predictable than tidal energy, which follows regular tidal cycles.
Wave and tidal energy are both promising renewable energy sources having the potential to generate significant amounts of clean energy, particularly in coastal areas. However, they are still in their early phases when compared to more established renewables like solar and wind.
Some good websites to check out :-
Richard Klopp 9/10/2024 10:57 AMAlways include a clear statement as to why a particular subject is relevant and what role you play. In this case, you are educating yourself, but is there more you can do?
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Sofia Giambattista 8/31/2024 3:03 PMMy Vanier Commute:
Currently, I commute to Vanier by car, which I realize contributes significantly to carbon emissions, especially given Quebec’s reliance on hydroelectric power for clean energy. This semester, I’m exploring healthier and more sustainable commuting options. I’m planning to switch to public transportation, using the bus and metro, which are both efficient and environmentally friendly. Since public transit will take a bit longer in my case, I’ll also be carpooling with family members. While this still involves driving, it’s a much better alternative than driving alone, as it helps reduce the number of individual car trips and cuts down on emissions. -
Sofia Giambattista 8/31/2024 2:57 PMIntro Post:
Hi everyone, my name is Sofia, and I’m in my last semester at Vanier, studying Early Childhood Education. I’m passionate about painting, reading, and, of course, working with children. While I haven’t settled on a specific sustainability project yet, I’m really interested in exploring more eco-friendly transportation options, like trying out an electric bike or scooter to get around my area and reduce my carbon footprint. I’m also planning to take advantage of the nice weather by going on daily walks.-
Richard Klopp 9/03/2024 8:03 PMLiving car free is one of the most effective solutions to reduce emissions.
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/aa7541#artAbst
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Sofia Giambattista 8/31/2024 2:43 PMVanier Sustainability Action Plan:
The plan is quite comprehensive, targeting various aspects of sustainability, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and promoting a culture of sustainability on campus. It is ambitious in its scope, especially in trying to engage the entire community in these efforts. There may be areas where the plan could be more specific, particularly in setting measurable targets and timelines for some initiatives. The inclusion of more detailed plans on renewable energy adoption or more aggressive carbon reduction goals could strengthen it. From observation, Vanier has made visible strides in areas like waste reduction (e.g., more recycling bins, composting programs, reduction of single use plastic) and promoting sustainability through events and workshops. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives might vary, and there's always room for improvement in awareness and participation. With that being said, some questions I would ask are:- What strategies are in place to ensure that sustainability practices are integrated into the curriculum and student life?
- How are students being involved in decision-making processes regarding sustainability initiatives? Can you provide examples of how student involvement has led to successful sustainability initiatives at Vanier?
- How is progress tracked and measured? Are there any specific metrics or results you can share?
- What are the key challenges Vanier faces in achieving its sustainability goals, and how are these being addressed?
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Richard Klopp 9/03/2024 8:01 PMExcellent questions for discussion on Sept 4.