Teens' project among 50 to be showcased at Vernon Climate Action Ripple Effect summit

Photo: Contributed

More Vernon students are creating a ripple effect.

As part of the Climate Action Ripple Effect (CARE) project led by the Fresh Outlook Foundation, Grade 11 Seaton students Chayse Brumpton and Cory Maksymchuk are identifying items in their own homes that can be made more energy efficient.

Brumpton's wood-burning fireplace, for example, could be switched over to use gas or electricity.

Even "small things like changing out lightbulbs can make a big difference overall," he says.

The students explored a variety of simple home energy retrofits for their CARE project.

The spark for the project was lit during COVID when the boys were housebound and thinking about how to make their homes more sustainable.

While some retrofits can be technical, there are many simple ways to improve efficiency.

"We're learning there's lots of eco-friendly options that everyone can relate to it, even if you're renting," says Maksymchuk.

The City of Vernon's new climate action implementation co-ordinator Brendan Riome is mentoring the boys.

"It's hard to ignore what kids bring to the table," he says.

"So many existing buildings need energy upgrades for us to meet our climate action goals. Youth will see the biggest effects of climate change, so having them understand the scope of needs and mobilizing their creativity and passion is vital."

Their project is one of 50 that will be on display at the CARE Summit Dec. 1 at the Vernon Rec Centre.