Applications open for 2026 Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program

The City of Kingston is seeking neighbourhood leaders to engage with residents on local environmental issues and inspire climate action. Individuals and organizations that wish to lead a climate action project in their neighbourhood are encouraged to apply for the Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program.

“The Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program has helped facilitate a growing number of community-led projects over the past three years,” says Julie Salter-Keane, Manager of Climate Leadership. “It's an impactful way to equip local leaders with the tools, resources and knowledge to lead positive change at the community level.”

The 2025 Neighbourhood Champions led 22 projects promoting climate adaptation, mitigation and education. Examples of projects include:

• Planting pollinator gardens and edible community gardens
• Hosting energy efficiency workshops or home energy retrofits
• Creating kid-friendly climate action events
• Working with local schools to spread awareness of environmental issues

Program details

Participants are expected to commit four-to-five hours per month toward climate outreach, project development and implementation. Participants will receive training on climate change science and support from City staff as they develop their project. Each champion will receive up to $2,000 to bring their project to life.

Climate action project ideas could include:

• Educating residents about environmental issues
•  Leading discussions on climate challenges
• Collaborating on community-focused projects
• Inspiring broader participation in climate action
• Contributing to climate adaptation and mitigation

Interested residents and community organizations are invited to apply on Get Involved Kingston by Oct. 16.

Empowering residents to create meaningful change in their community

The Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program is part of the City’s response to the climate emergency. It empowers residents to make change by leading community-focused actions that support the City’s Climate Leadership Plan and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The program aligns with Kingston’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, which includes a priority to Lead Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action.