Past Project Recipients

The City of Ottawa has several funding opportunities and wishes to make the process of granting approval as straightforward as possible for prospective applicants. In an attempt to do that, this section provides examples of past projects along with additional information to prospective applicants, allowing prospective applicants to gauge their project idea against past projects. This section also showcases and applauds the efforts of dedicated local residents who have made a commitment to improving the natural environment within the City.

The information here provides a basic understanding of each project, however, a more detailed description of each project is available through the CEPGP Coordinator. Keep in mind that the projects listed here were approved under the CEPGP guidelines of their time. Changes to the guidelines do occur and, verification of the current guidelines is critical when applying for funding.

Project Karyne: Model Car and Solar Boat Race

Purpose: To promote renewable energy projects and engage students in two races (solar car race and solar boat race) to increase their understanding of renewable energy and the environment, and to hopefully encourage careers in environmental studies, sciences or engineering.

Results: On May 1, 2009, five teams from four high schools designed, built and raced their solar powered cars for a panel of volunteer judges at the Power the Future Solar Model Car Challenge. Students from eight Orleans middle schools designed and built solar boats out of recycled materials (and a kit provided by a partnering company) to compete in the solar boat race on October 2, 2009.

Environmental Benefits: During the design and construction of the solar powered vehicles, the children learned about solar power, renewable energy and the environment. It not only fostered creativity in designing their solar powered vehicles but also in re-using recycled materials.

Sustainable Living Ottawa East: Rideau River Nature Trail

Purpose: To establish a nature trail along the Rideau River shoreline in Ottawa East that promotes and protects the ecological health and beauty of this community greenspace.

Results: Interpretative panels and trail markers were designed and installed along the shoreline to engage and educate community members on the features of the trail.

Environmental Benefits: The activities associated with establishing the Rideau River Nature Trail enhance and protect the shoreline and aquatic habitats along the Rideau River. These activities also improve the local community’s understanding of their local ecosystem and the threats to it.

EnviroCentre: Project Display and Outreach

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to promote, educate and build awareness among the residents of the City of Ottawa on sustainable energy use, sustainable transportation, and climate change and air quality.

Results: The EnviroCentre developed multi-purpose display panels, materials, posters and a pesticide free action kit for distribution to the public. The display panels showcased projects and partners and enabled the EnviroCentre to meet and engage the public with a greater impact at several events, including the following: City of Ottawa Energy Efficiency Fair, Department of National Defence Energy Efficiency Fair, the International Walk to School Day Launch, Nepean Days and the CCRA Health and Wellness Fair.

Environmental Benefits: The environmental benefits of promoting sustainable transportation, pesticide awareness, and energy efficiency are limitless. The events were attended by thousands of individuals who are likely to change or rethink their behaviour and act more environmentally sensitive.

Fletcher Wildlife Garden/Ottawa Field Naturalist's Club: Buckthorn Control

Purpose: The removal of Common and Glossy Buckthorn, both listed as Principal Invasive Aliens by Environment Canada, from the Fletcher Wildlife Garden. Both species are considered to pose the greatest threat to natural areas.

Results: Special tools were purchased and the shrubs were removed from the area. Native plants were purchased and planted to re-naturalize the area.

Environmental Benefits: Common and Glossy Buckthorn is an incredible invasive species that can eliminate native species within an area. The proper removal of these and the re-introduction of native species will prevent the spread of Buckthorn into other areas and preserve the Garden.

Orchard Estates Community Association: Composting and Rainwater Collection

Purpose: There were two distinct purposes with this project. The first purpose was to conserve water by collecting rainwater to use for watering gardens. The secondary purpose was to compost yard waste on individual properties.

Results: The distribution of rain barrels and composters to homeowners in the area.

Environmental Benefits: The result of this project includes the reduction of materials sent to landfill, and the creation of compost for gardens and lawns and the conservation of water. The educational benefits of such a project are substantial.

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