To start, I learned about natural gas. Now, this wasn't part of the plan. Vancouver had discontinued its use—for heat and hot water—for new, yet-to-be-built buildings since 2022. Recently, though, a group of councillors had voted to change that. Why?

Earlier, I mentioned I was doing a DIY master's: learning about the intersection of people and planet. But I'm also looking for levers: moments when everyday people—like me—can really contribute.

For Month 1, I’m starting local. I recently learned that, on July 23rd, some Vancouver councillors voted to allow natural gas—for heat and hot water—in new, yet-to-be-built buildings. Below is a working document of sources and stats—to be expanded as the month progresses.

Living in the Netherlands—where my husband is from—was an idea we'd had years ago, but it became urgent when his mother got sick.

Having children (or not) in the context of a changing climate

“You’ll feel some pressure,” said the doctor. 

I was lying on my back; the room was dark, save for one overhead light. “Take a deep breath,” she counselled.