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Amidst the intensifying effects of climate change, for the first time in many years, the humidex (combining temperature and humidity) reached the dangerous threshold of 46 degrees C. In addition to pool closures and limitations to the capacities of Project Water to deliver bottles to unhoused populations, the city believes additional measures were needed to keep Torontonians safe from the effects of extreme heat.
 

Young people will inherit the planet and will bear the brunt of climate change impacts for the longest time. They are the generation that will live with the escalating effects of extreme weather, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation. Young people have a moral right to be informed and consulted on issues that will profoundly affect their future. As stated by Vote16 Canada, research from Elections Canada found that “16-17s are just as interested, if not more, in participating in various forms of political activity, including both voting and non-electoral civic activities. [Moreover], Canadian scholars have found that 16-17s are not less politically developed than adults, and, depending on the aspect being looked at, they are more knowledgeable or as knowledgeable as adults. Compared to 18-20s, they know as much about political institutions, the campaign promises, and the candidates…As of today, 17 countries have a minimum voting age of 16 for at least one level of government, including Germany, Scotland, Wales, Austria, Belgium, Finland, and several cities in the US.”

“Community Environment Days are an important part of the City's waste reduction strategy. From 2014 to 2017, by going to their local Community Environment Day, Torontonians recycled and/or diverted from landfills” over 2 million kilograms of electronics, household hazardous waste, reusable household goods and arts and crafts supplies.