Introduction

Welcome

Welcome to “Topics in Sustainable Community Development”, a book put together by the students in the 2021 Sustainable Community Development class at Centennial College’s Community Development Work Program.

Each of the five short chapters in this book provides an overview of a specific topic in sustainability. In 2021 the topics you will find included are biodiversity, sustainable transportation, green and efficient buildings, environmental toxins, and renewable energy.

In small groups, students researched the topics through reading designated articles, internet research, and examining the organizations currently working on these issues. Each chapter opens a multimedia window into the topic with a special emphasis on Indigenous approaches to sustainability and incorporating an equity and diversity lens.

Researching and developing these chapters was a collaborative process. Each week we built on our knowledge of the topics, and throughout the classes the small groups were exchanging ideas with each other. By the end, everyone had learned a significant amount not only about their research area, but about all the others too.

We are so excited to share the stories of these innovators and inspiring solutions that are being developed. We hope it provides food for thought, and for action, and that together we keep striving towards a future where all forms of life can thrive.

Linor David BSc, MEd
Professor of Community Development
Centennial College
December 14, 2021