Living Landscapes: Community Restoration and Biodiversity in a Changing Ontario

This panel discussion explores the intersection of biodiversity and community restoration efforts in Toronto and across Ontario. As ecosystems face mounting threats from urban development, climate change, and legislative changes, we’ll spotlight innovative community-led initiatives, evolving conservation strategies, and key policy shifts shaping the province’s natural heritage. Featuring experts from across the sector, this event will delve into the challenges and opportunities in Ontario’s conservation landscape—leaving you informed, inspired, and equipped to take action in support of biodiversity.

What’s in it for you?

You will gain expert insight into the latest biodiversity policy developments and challenges. You will be able to ask questions, exchange ideas, and connect with peers facing similar pressures and priorities. You will also be able to expand your network over refreshments in a relaxed, professional setting.

Event Agenda:

Doors open open at 5:45pm. Featuring a panel of environmental experts. Followed by an interactive Q&A & networking reception.

Speakers

Melina Damian - Communications Manager at Ontario Nature

Melina is an intersectional environmentalist who is passionate about climate justice, environmental education and biodiversity conservation

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She works as a communications manager at Ontario Nature, a Toronto-based environmental organization. For the last five years, she also worked as a curriculum developer and professor at Centennial College for the course Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development. She has a Masters in Environmental Studies, a graduate diploma in Environmental Education from York University, and a certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education from Centennial.

Her experience includes working and volunteering for different environmental organizations such as Wildlife Preservation Canada, Toronto Wildlife Centre, York Sustainable Enterprise Consultants, FoodShare and the Canadian Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation.

Dr. Loren King - Founder, The Great Lakes Trust | Associate Professor of Political Science, Wilfrid Laurier University | Marathon Swimmer

A passionate advocate for swimmable cities and sustainable water futures, Dr. Loren King brings a unique perspective that blends academic insight, policy expertise, and lived experience.

Loren is also the founder of The Great Lakes Trust, a charitable endowment that champions science, art, and advocacy to protect and celebrate our shared Great Lakes.

A dedicated marathon swimmer, he quite literally immerses himself in the waters he works to protect, making his advocacy both personal and profound.

Dr. King invites us to rethink our relationship with water, not just as a resource, but as a shared public good worth preserving for future generations.

More Speaker info to come!