We were thrilled to welcome a full room for our recent Green Drinks event featuring The Honourable Steven Guilbeault. The conversation offered an honest and insightful look at the current state of climate action in Canada, the role of government, and where we go from here.
One of the clearest messages from the evening was that climate leadership in Canada is changing. While federal momentum has slowed, municipalities are becoming key drivers of climate action. Local organizations, community groups, and city-level initiatives are increasingly where meaningful progress is happening.
MP Guilbeault spoke candidly about his decision to step down from cabinet. He chose to resign rather than compromise his values when faced with policy directions he could not publicly support. While acknowledging the role of markets, MP Guilbeault emphasized that strong regulation and public policy remain essential to achieving real climate progress. He also raised concerns about proposed policy changes that could weaken environmental protections, underscoring the importance of continued public engagement and advocacy.
Despite challenges, the conversation also highlighted areas where Canada continues to lead:
- Global biodiversity commitments (protecting 30% of land and water by 2030)
- Indigenous-led conservation initiatives
- Investments in freshwater protection
- Continued climate finance commitments
The audience engaged with thoughtful questions, including:
Will you return to politics or join another party?
Guilbeault shared that he is stepping back for now, but not closing the door entirely.
What should Canada prioritize next?
He pointed to the need for:
- Integrating climate and nature into all policy decisions
- Moving beyond GDP to measure prosperity
- Strengthening environmental protections
How has your view of activism changed?
Guilbeault answered that it hasn’t. Activism remains essential and must exist both inside institutions and in the broader public sphere.
The evening ended on a note of realism and hope. MP Guilbeault reminded us that the climate movement is not ending, it is evolving. And in this next phase, local action, community leadership, and sustained advocacy will be more important than ever.
Jennifer Gautreau, MCing the session congratulated Steven Guilbeault for standing up for his values, for his integrity and courage. The audience burst into applause and gave him a standing ovation.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in person and online. Make sure you do not miss our next Green Drinks by RSVPing today!
July Green Drinks: Climate Justice Edition with Sacred Earth Solar
Join us on Thursday, July 9 at The Prescott! We are very excited to welcome Serena Mendizabal, Managing Director at Sacred Earth Solar. As a unique Indigenous women-led non-profit, Sacred Earth supports Indigenous communities across Turtle Island to implement climate solutions and healing justice. Coming all the way from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory to join us for this special Green Drinks, Serena will share insights on how clean energy projects can both empower communities and care for our planet. Join us to talk climate justice, to network with the local environmental community, and, as always, for free pizza!
Registration: FREE (RSVP here)
When: Thursday 9 July, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: The Prescott, 379 Preston St.
