Skip to main content

Featured

Liberal Candidate Paul Chiang Steps Down Amid Controversy

Paul Chiang, a Liberal candidate in the Markham-Unionville riding, has announced his resignation following backlash over comments he made regarding a Conservative opponent, Joe Tay. Chiang suggested that individuals could claim a bounty offered by Hong Kong authorities by turning Tay over to the Chinese consulate. This statement, made during a press conference in January, sparked widespread criticism and raised concerns about foreign interference in Canadian politics. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has since launched an investigation into the matter, citing potential threats to Canada's democratic processes. Chiang issued an apology, calling his remarks a "deplorable lapse in judgment," but the controversy persisted. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre condemned the comments, stating that they endangered Tay's safety and sent a chilling message to the community. Chiang's resignation comes as Liberal leader Mark Carney faces mounting pressure to address ...

article

How Tiny Forests Can Help Fight Climate Change and Boost Biodiversity

 

Climate change and biodiversity loss are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. But what if there was a simple and effective way to tackle both at once? Enter the tiny forest: a dense, fast-growing native woodland, usually about the size of a tennis court, that can provide multiple benefits for people and nature.

Tiny forests originated in Japan, where botanist Akira Miyawaki developed a method to plant a variety of native trees and shrubs in a small area, mimicking the natural succession of a forest. His goal was to restore the native vegetation that had been lost due to deforestation and urbanization. Since then, the concept has spread to many countries, including Canada, where several tiny forest projects have been launched in recent years.

According to research, tiny forests can capture more carbon, more quickly than conventional tree planting, as the trees and shrubs grow faster and compete for light. They can also support a rich diversity of wildlife, such as birds, butterflies and insects, creating a mini-ecosystem in urban areas. Moreover, they can improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide a place for people to connect with and learn about nature.

Tiny forests are also low-maintenance and cost-effective, as they require little watering and weeding after the first few years. They can be planted in vacant lots, neglected parks, or along busy roads, making use of underutilized spaces. They can also involve local communities, schools, and businesses, who can participate in the planting and monitoring of the forests.

Tiny forests are not a silver bullet for the environmental crisis, but they are a powerful tool that can make a difference at a local scale. By planting more tiny forests, we can help fight climate change and boost biodiversity, while also enhancing the well-being and resilience of our cities.

Comments