Megan Sarrazin
news editor
It is becoming more common for people to make the switch to a green lifestyle.
Helping out with the sustainable movement is the Students’ Associations’ Sustainability Coordinator Jackie Hallet, who has organized Common Ground.
“Common Ground is essentially MacEwan’s sustainability week,” said Hallet, who credits Marlon Davies, manager of clubs and services last year, for the creation of the multi-day conference.
“There is no other event like this on campus,” said Hallet.
Common Ground is in its second year and will take place primarily at City Centre Campus, with some events taking place at MacEwan’s South Campus as well as the Centre for the Arts and Communications.
“Environmental sustainability is not only an important issue to promote, it’s a lifestyle and one that can be easily accommodated by everyone,” said Hallet. “Living a resilient, sustainable lifestyle isn’t just for hippies — everyone can do it, and more importantly, everyone should do it.”
Simple acts can make a big difference, according to Hallet. Switching from drinking bottled water and instead, using a stainless steel water bottle decreases the amount of resources and energy used.
“It’s easy to change the hearts and minds of people when you give them all the facts — and that’s part of what Common Ground is all about,” said Hallet. “We want students to come out, gain some insight and walk away knowing that they can make a difference.”
To engage students, there will be a screening of the film The Tipping Point, which is a documentary about the oil sands in Fort MacMurray. One of the films directors will be present to speak about the making of the film.
In the front foyer of building six will be a Market of Ideas where local organizations in the Edmonton area will be present to spread their sustainable living practices and ideas.
Between March 30 and April 1, keep your eyes open for events taking place at various campuses. You can check out the itinerary on http://www.macewan.ca/sa.
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