BWG Showcases Local Environmental Leadership at 2025 Latornell Conservation Symposium

Councillor Jonathan Scott joined conservationists, scientists, and government officials from across Ontario at the 2025 Latornell Conservation Symposium, held November 3 to 4 in Vaughan.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Latornell Conservation Symposium continues to be one of Ontario’s leading forums for conservation authorities, environmental practitioners, and community leaders committed to advancing watershed management and sustainable development.

As Chair of the Town’s Green Initiatives Advisory Committee (GIAC) and Ward 2 Councillor, Jonathan Scott was invited to deliver a presentation titled “Local Leadership in Action: Advancing Practical Green Solutions in Bradford West Gwillimbury.” His presentation highlighted how BWG is investing in practical, local environmental solutions that provide measurable environmental and financial benefits — from cleaner water and reduced salt use to expanded trail connections and energy-efficient municipal buildings.

“I’m proud to have BWG represented at the 2025 Latornell Conservation Symposium,” said Mayor James Leduc. “Our Green Initiatives Advisory Committee and Council have made great strides since the committee’s inception in 2022, advancing more than 15 environmental resolutions through Council that continue to make BWG a leader in local sustainability.”

Earlier this year, BWG Council adopted the Town’s first Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy, developed by the GIAC. The strategy commits the Town to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, supported by clear milestones and public accountability measures.

“When we invest in smart green infrastructure, we’re also investing in long-term savings for residents,” said Councillor Jonathan Scott. “Every litre of water we keep clean, every kilowatt-hour we conserve, and every tree we plant helps lower maintenance, energy, and health costs. Environmental stewardship is good fiscal management.”

Several of BWG’s key sustainability initiatives were highlighted during the symposium, including:

Snow and Salt Filtration Facility: Filters up to 80% of suspended solids in snowmelt before it reaches the Holland River.
LittaTrap™ Program: Low-cost storm drain inserts that capture plastics and debris before they clog pipes or enter waterways.
Lake Simcoe Phosphorus Reduction Facility: A first-in-Canada partnership that reduces phosphorus pollution entering the watershed.
Schoolyard Reforestation Program: Adds shade and reduces cooling costs while engaging students in hands-on environmental learning.
Active Transportation and Transit Improvements: Enhances connections between neighbourhoods, schools, and the GO Station through new protected bike lanes and an electric on-demand bus pilot.
The work of the GIAC demonstrates that meaningful environmental progress starts locally and that by working hand-in-hand with Council, advisory committees can be powerful catalysts for real change in their communities, as shown here in BWG.