Event

TEDxNVDPL COUNTDOWN

Countdown is a global initiative to champion and accelerate solutions to the climate crisis, turning ideas into action. The goal: To build a better future by cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 in the race to a zero-carbon world – a world that is safer, cleaner and fairer for everyone. To make progress on climate action we need to collaborate on a global scale, and our community has a role to play.

Communities around the world are joining the Countdown initiative. North Vancouver City Library, North Vancouver District Public Library, and West Vancouver Memorial Library have come together to present a two-day virtual event that can be watched online at home with your family and friends.

More than 50 speakers, in five curated session, streamed live to your computer will combine TED’s signature blend of actionable and research-backed ideas, cutting-edge science, and moments of wonder and inspiration. Starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 16 join us for an interactive experience with other like-minded members of your community. Join in the chat, share ideas and stories, win prizes and commit to the “Count Us In” initiative. Turn fear into action . . . . and join the COUNTDOWN!

All meetings will use the same Zoom link so you only need to register once! Online registration is now closed but you can email info@nvdpl.ca to receive information on how to access the Zoom event. 

Here's what's in store:

Session 1: Urgency | October 16, 10:00am-11:00am

Launch the Countdown means asking ourselves the big questions: what’s the state of the climate today? What does climate science know? How are we going to achieve a net-zero future? How do we center climate justice in our work? Hear from experts, policymakers and activists in this opening session.

Session 2: Leadership | October 16, 11:30am-12:40pm

The climate crisis demands leadership at every level. Governments, cities and businesses are three key players in designing and implementing the necessary transition. Speakers in this session will discuss putting climate back on the political and social agenda, rethinking cities, and what businesses can do to transform. 

Session 3: Transformation | October 16, 2:00pm-3:10pm

Transforming big systems is a huge task. Energy, transportation, industry and infrastructure all pose their own challenges. And yet that transformation is already happening. The experts in this session will show how and where and offer powerful ideas for accelerating it: developing an economy without coal, decarbonizing fossil fuels, electrifying mobility and more.

Session 4: Breakthroughs | October 17, 10:00am-11:10am

The world around us is mainly made of two things: nature and the materials that we extract from it. To fight climate change, we need to protect and regenerate nature and transform materials into low or zero-carbon alternative. This session explores the nexus of protection, regeneration and transformation using powerful examples.

Session 5: Action | October 17, 11:30am-12:30pm

It’s time to take action. This closing session will explore the road ahead. How to think urgently and long-term about climate change. How to take into account the interest of future generations in today’s decision. How we as individuals communities and organization can contribute to shaping a better future. The Countdown is on!

Workshop: Tools for Change | October 17, 2:00pm-3:00pm

This workshop with explore different ways in which you can engage with your neighbours, other citizens, and decision makers to shape policies with respect to climate change challenges. Murray Mollard from North Shore Community Resources will discuss topics that included creating personal strategies, using traditional and social media advocacy tools, and engaging your friends and networks for change. Murry will be available for a Q&A after the workshop.

What you’ll need: A computer with microphone (or headphones) and webcam for Zoom; or your smartphone/tablet. We will email you the Zoom link in advance of the event. We will be using Zoom Meetings, so your mic and video will be turned off when you enter the event.