Greenspiration News & Events: Mother Earth Day

Mon Apr 20 15:40:10 UTC 2026

Pope Leo: “The Masters of War pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy... The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants. They turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing, on devastation. Yet the resources needed for healing, education, and restoration are nowhere to be found.”

INTERNATIONAL

Vatican’s position on AI - On the Relationship between AI and Human Intelligence

https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_ddf_doc_20250128_antiqua-et-nova_en.html

The Push for Nuclear Power Intensifies

30 min. video podcast with 3 US-based nuclear experts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZxgwmJi-ew

China Moving in with Solar as Cuban Fuel Crisis Deepens

https://www.theenergymix.com/china-moving-in-with-solar-as-cuban-fuel-crisis-deepens/

CANADA

A Tale of Two Provinces: Ontario Bets on Nuclear, Quebec on Wind

https://www.theenergymix.com/a-tale-of-two-provinces-ontario-bets-on-nuclear-quebec-on-wind/

Urgent need for a windfall profits tax on oil and gas

How to prevent the fossil fuels corporations from making a killing on this illegal war, and put the revenues to better use. By Seth Klein. 

https://sethdklein.substack.com/p/urgent-need-for-a-windfall-profits

Sign the petition for a windfall polluters profits tax

https://act.350.org/sign/tax-polluters-now/

Aging oil wells on her land are making this Alberta farmer's life miserable. She's not alone

Advocates call for stronger rules, more research to protect residents from oil-and-gas emissions

https://www.cbc.ca/radio/whatonearth/landowners-aging-oil-wells-9.7162246

There is no energy transition without Indigenous nations

Indigenous communities are not waiting for permission to start a green transition—they’re forging ahead. There are more than 200 medium- to large-scale renewable energy projects and over 2,000 small-scale initiatives that are owned or operated by Indigenous nations. 

https://breachmedia.ca/pick-a-path-there-is-no-energy-transition-without-indigenous-nations/ 

Tell PM Carney and Cabinet: Build a People’s Power Grid Powered by Renewables

https://act.350.org/sign/ppg/

ONTARIO

Ford government to bypass public hearings on freedom-of-information clampdown

The retroactive FOI law would shield Ford and cabinet members — along with their offices — from public access to documents

https://www.torontotoday.ca/local/politics-government/ford-government-freedom-of-information-bypass-public-hearings-12157828

Is Ontario drifting towards autocracy?

https://markwinfield.substack.com/p/is-ontario-drifting-towards-autocracy

TORONTO

Attn. Mayor Chow: Please ramp up renewables and make electricity more affordable

https://www.cleanairalliance.org/ramp-up-affordable-renewables/

Have your say - How would you like to see Yonge St. from College to Queen rebuilt?

City Survey deadline May 5.

https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/get-involved/public-consultations/infrastructure-projects/yonge-downtown/

Earth Day Globe Walk

https://www.instagram.com/p/DXPhYdUAB7B/

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EVENTS

Waterfront Town Hall

Mon. Apr. 20, 7 - 9 p.m. ET

East Bayfront Community Centre, 261 Queens Quay E, Toronto

The Ontario government is exploring changes to expand the island airport—raising serious concerns about noise, safety, environmental impacts, and the future of Toronto's waterfront. Join MPP Chris Glover (Spadina—Fort York), Norm Di Pasquale (Chair, NoJetsTO), and Ed Hore (Chair, Waterfront for All) to learn more, ask questions, and share your perspective. Whether you’re a local resident, waterfront user, or simply care about the future of our city, your voice matters. Come be part of the conversation and help shape what comes next.

https://www.chrisglovermpp.ca/waterfront-town-hall

If you can't make it in-person, you can watch the livestream at www.chrisglovermpp.ca/livestream.

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Back in the race: What new data reveals about electrifying your home and car

Tues. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. ET

You’re invited to join a webinar exploring two new Clean Energy Canada reports that take a closer look at what happens when Canadians electrify their homes and vehicles—from the costs and savings to the real-world experience of making the switch.

https://sfu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_l6D9o6XLTHCB3jaYzQMTWw#/registration  

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Public Education in Crisis: Emergency Town Hall

Tues. Apr. 21, 7 p.m. ET

The Ontario Government continues to hack away at our vulnerable public education system. On Monday, Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, introduced "Bill 101, Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026" which will dramatically change the current system. Understand this government’s latest moves. Hear about how this will impact our schools, and learn how parents, educators, workers, and community members can engage.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2mhyjUfCSvOH78UJdNY0dg

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Planning the Future of Abu Dhabi - A Canadian - Emirati Collaboration 

Tues. April 21, 11 a.m. ET 

Guests will present on their co-edited publication Planning the Future of Abu Dhabi and share the stories of twenty of their fellow Canadians who had key roles in the international collaboration that turned the Emirate into a model of sustainable, contemporary city building.

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B9StBJzHSJqAoioLCEqclg#/registration 

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Let's Talk Lake Erie: Invasive species

Tues. Apr. 21, noon ET

Learn about the current status of invasive species in Lake Erie and the risks they pose to the ecosystem. Find out about monitoring efforts in Michigan and how Canada and the United States are working together to address the invasive plant Hydrilla, including the latest updates on its recent detection in Ontario and the rapid response underway.

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jc1_Y5eEQs-x5ir8Vg9rOQ#/registration 

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International Mother Earth Day 

Wed. April 22

For this International Mother Earth Day, let's remind ourselves - more than ever - that we need a shift to a more sustainable economy that works for both people and the planet. Let’s promote harmony with nature and the Earth. Join the global movement to restore our world!

https://www.un.org/en/observances/earth-day 

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>From Paycheck to Planet: An Earth Day Teach-In on Making Your Retirement Fund Climate-Safe

Wed. Apr. 22, 3 p.m. ET

This Earth Day, join Stand.earth and climate finance experts for a free teach-in on one of the most overlooked worker rights issues of our time. We'll break down how retirement plan fiduciaries are legally required to act in your financial interest and what it means when they don't. We'll explain the financial risk that fossil fuel investments pose to your long-term retirement security. And we'll give you a clear, concrete path to requesting climate-safe investment options from your own employer.

https://stand-earth.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XbAbQbORTLikCdtUtsZ7kg#/registration

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Climate Resilience for People with Intellectual + Developmental Disabilities

Wed. Apr. 22, 7 - 8 pm (not sure what timezone)

Climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme weather events like heatwaves, floods, and fires. These events pose escalating physical, social, and financial risks for all of us – and especially for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities like Down syndrome. This Earth Day, join us as we explore how we can improve climate resilience in a changing world for those with disabilities.

https://fundraise.dsrf.org/event/climate-resilience-for-people-with-intellectual-developmental-disabilities/e760090  

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Anima Café | Fire and Silence Chat with Daniel Quan-Watson

Wed. Apr. 22, noon - 1 p.m. ET

Join Annahid Dashtgard in conversation with Daniel Quan-Watson, deputy minister of many portfolios and the first of Chinese Canadian descent, pull back the veil in this conversation about what it means to be a racialized leader in white dominant institutions – but beyond this, what is unique and possible that only Indigenous, Black and racialized leaders can bring forward. Join us for this conversation about call-outs, coping strategies and ultimately, connections to build more diverse stronger systems.

https://animaleadership.com/community/cafe/ 

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America’s Extreme Drought and Its Climate Connection

Wed. April 22, noon ET

Almost half of the US’s population is battling drought — and it's expanding. A lack of meaningful winter and spring rainfall worsened by record heat fueled by climate change has led to many states dealing with “severe to extreme drought,” increasing wildfire risks and warranting water restrictions for some areas for the first time in decades. With no significant relief in sight, join Covering Climate Now and Climate Central for a special webinar exploring this evolving drought and how climate change is playing a hand in its intensification.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zbJjn-FrRKurcYe889atMA#/registration

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How to break the climate silence

Thur. Apr. 23, noon ET

Earth Day might get people talking about climate change, but how do we make it an everyday conversation? Canadians aren’t sharing their concerns or questions about climate change with each other. To talk through how we can change that, Re.Climate has invited panelists who are having climate conversations every day. They’ll offer practical advice for how to talk to elected officials, how to broach climate and climate solutions in daily life and how to break through the noise on social media platforms.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CZVN0Qm9Tp-E3ZxQiDO4vQ#/registration 

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Tracking Global Clean Technology Investment

Thur. Apr. 23, noon - 1 p.m. ET

In 2025, global investment in the manufacture and deployment of clean electric power, transportation and industry reached a record-high $1.96 trillion, an increase of 7% from 2024 and a tripling of levels seen only seven years ago. Investment in clean technologies rose to 6% of total global fixed asset investment in 2025, nearly tripling its share since 2018. This online briefing will share the latest insights. A Rocky Mountain Institute webinar.

https://rmi.org/event/tracking-global-clean-technology-investment/

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Hot Docs - Celebrating the best in documentary

Apr. 23 - May 3

At Hot Docs Cinema (on bloor) and TIFF Bell lighthouse (on King)

The 2026 Hot Docs Festival will present outstanding documentaries from around the world to audiences in Toronto - 115 films from 51 countries. Free before 4 p.m. for students and 60+.

https://hotdocs.ca/festivals/hot-docs-festival

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The Grind’s 3-Year Anniversary Party

Fri. Apr. 24, 8 p.m. ET

Downtown Toronto

Performances, DJs, silent auction, drinks and snacks downtown to celebrate three years of The Grind and raise money for the paper.

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-grinds-3-year-anniversary-party-tickets-1985958119195

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Nuclear Waste Scholar Series: What is ALARA? How does it help protect public health & the environment?

Fri. Apr. 24, 3 p.m. ET

Dr. Arjun Makhijani will describe radiation protections for the public and the environment by keeping exposures “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” (ALARA), below the limits. Arjun will also discuss how ALARA serves to protect public health and the environment.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_i6A4dXUqR5a8duuzZkQqgw#/registration

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Transitioning away from Fossil Fuels: 1st Conference 

Apr. 24-29, Columbia

Colombia and the Netherlands will host the First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels. The Conference is designed as a space for countries, subnational governments and other stakeholders that recognize the need to implement a transition away from fossil fuels in a just, orderly and equitable manner, in line with climate goals and the best available science.

https://transitionawayconference.com/ 

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Ontario Deserves Better - Province-Wide Protest - 50 towns!!

Sat. Apr. 25

Doug Ford has consistently shown he’s not on the people’s side. It’s time to stand up for our rights and for those who cannot. On this website, you’ll find all the dates, times, and locations for Sat. protests against Doug Ford and his agenda.

In Toronto, meet at Queens Park at noon (in the park north of the leg building)

https://protestdougford.com/about/

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CUBA Resiste! - In Conversation About Cuba Today

Sat. Apr. 25, 7 - 9 p.m. ET

College Street United Church, 452 College (at Bathurst), Toronto

Cuba is facing deepening hardship with blackouts, and critical shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. As the crisis intensifies, communities worldwide are coming together in solidarity. Join us for an evening of dialogue, learning, and collective action as we unpack what is happening in Cuba today beyond the headlines. All proceeds from the evening to go towards sending vital equipment, food, and supplies to Cuba.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/panitchschool/2137628 

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People's Forum on Xenophobia and Migrant Justice - panels, performances, food

Sat. Apr. 25, 6 p.m. ET

Trinity St. Paul's, 427 Bloor W., Toronto

Bill C-12 just passed and cuts hitting migrants and refugee, we're bringing people together on Sat, April 25 to strategize and take action. 

www.MigrantRights.ca/Apr25  

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Earth Day Retreat: Rooted in Earth, Rising in Creativity! 

Sat. Apr. 25, 9:15 a.m.

Trinity St. Paul's United Church, Toronto

This day-long retreat will be an opportunity to explore our relationship with the Earth, honour our feelings about the climate crisis, nurture and renew our spirits, and get inspired for healing work in the world. The day will feature a great line-up of workshops including: 

- Earth Body: Rooted in Resilience workshop with Amy Lister of the Spiral Centre

- Choice between: Sabbath as Gift with Rev. Emily Gordon; Popular Theatre with Thomas McKechnie; or Diorama-Making with Martha Davis

- Singing of Hope and Resistance with Alan Gasser, co-director of Echo Women's Choir

A suggested donation of $25 will be collected at the door. Proceeds will provide honoraria for workshop facilitators. Everyone is welcome! Please make a donation that aligns with your finances. If you wish to donate more than $25 that will help subsidize others. 

https://rootedinearthrisingincreativity.eventbrite.com/

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VegStock! Toronto’s First Vegan Market of 2026

Sat. Apr. 25, 11 - 5 p.m. ET

The Lab, 108 Dundas Street West, 2nd Floor, Toronto

Forget about Woodstock. We bring you…VegStock! VegStock is popping up at The Lab for a full-day celebration of plant-powered goodness, creativity, and community.

https://wishbonearlab.ca/event/vegstock-torontos-first-vegan-market-of-2026-save-the-date/ 

Followed by:

Earth Night 2026

Sat. Apr. 25, 6:30 - 10pm

The Lab, 108 Dundas Street West, 2nd Floor, Toronto

We invite you to join us for a night of reflection, community building, music and dancing as we mark the first ever Earth Night event in Toronto!

https://luma.com/1li5yswi 

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EcoFair! 

Sun. Apr. 26, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. ET

Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Avenue. Toronto

EcoFair Toronto is a free, family-friendly, and informative event with over 100 environmentally-friendly businesses and organizations to discover how to make greener choices for your life, home, and community. 

https://ecofairtoronto.org/ 

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Why Chernobyl Still Isn't Over - 40 Years After the Worst Nuclear Disaster Ever

On April 26, 1986, Reactor 4 at Chernobyl exploded, triggering the worst nuclear disaster in history. Forty years later, the exclusion zone remains too radioactive for human life, and the catastrophe's impact continues to ripple across Europe and beyond. Survivors still grapple with health impacts, European forests remain contaminated, and debates over nuclear energy have reignited amid global energy crises. Through firsthand accounts from eyewitnesses, a leading historian and an activist, this 18 min. film explores why Chernobyl's legacy is far from sealed. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RrWsYLo8lI

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More Toronto events 

https://showuptoronto.ca/ 

For the best Canadian climate and energy news, visit and subscribe to the Energy Mix newsletter

http://theenergymix.com/ 

Democracy Now Daily Show - global peace, justice and enviro news

https://www.democracynow.org/ 

Tooker Tapes Archive Project - Youtube Playlist

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3IwhNn-WrINTQz2fBNayDoBWLW0y59le

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Submissions, subscribes, unsubscribes, and comments: mailto:angela at cleanairalliance.org 

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