Lead local climate action — applications open for 2027 Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program

The City of Kingston is seeking neighbourhood leaders to inspire climate action and help lead Kingston to a more sustainable future through the fifth annual Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program.

The municipal program provides funding, training and resources to help residents lead sustainability projects across the city.

“Collaboration with the community is a vital part of Kingston’s strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change,” says Julie Salter-Keane, Manager of Climate Leadership. “The Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions play an important role in engaging with fellow community members to take action at the local level.”

The 2026 Neighbourhood Champions led 18 projects promoting climate change adaptation, mitigation and education. Examples of projects include:

• Planting pollinator gardens and Little Forests
• Hosting energy efficiency workshops or home energy retrofits
• Creating kid-friendly climate education events
• Working with local schools to teach students about biodiversity

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 and promote 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. 22.

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 Climate Change Adaptation Plan. The program also aligns with Kingston’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, which includes a priority to Lead Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action.