January 2014

Groundwater is essential for life in arid and semiarid regions. It is also important in humid regions, and is one of the fundamental requirements for maintenance of natural landscapes and aquatic ecosystems. Many of Canada’s most sensitive ecosystems are dependent on groundwater. Yet, groundwater remains a relatively unknown resource, one which is difficult for the Canadian public and for decision makers to recognize and/or understand.

Alfonso Rivera, chief hydrogeologist of the NRCan Geological Survey of Canada, has compiled the work of over forty noted Canadian groundwater scientists to produce this invaluable resource. Canada's Groundwater Resources represents the first comprehensive, synthesized single-volume assessment of groundwater resources in Canada.

Click here to read more about this publication.

On Tuesday, January 14, the Sustainable Cities Exchange will hold a webinar on ‘solar gardens’. Solar gardens are community-based solar projects that allow individuals and businesses that do not have capacity for solar panels to receive benefit from solar energy systems. Participants in these projects can purchase shares of solar gardens and receive appropriate electric utility credits for their energy usage. In some cases, solar gardens can be designed as methods of generating income for communities.

The Sustainable Cities Exchange webinar on solar gardens will feature a presentation by Eugene Wilson, land-use and environmental attorney, and will explore the benefits and opportunities of solar gardens. In addition, two California-based case studies, involving Sacramento and San Diego, will be discussed.

To find out more and register for the webinar, click here.