Eco-Connect

Location: Toronto – Etobicoke North (Canada)

Eco-Connect is a culturally tailored, community-driven initiative designed to empower BIPOC communities in Etobicoke North through environmental education. Recognizing that marginalized groups often face barriers such as language, limited access to information, and economic challenges, the project aims to bridge these gaps by providing accessible, relevant, and culturally sensitive resources.

The project will conduct a community needs assessment to identify specific concerns, knowledge gaps, and preferred communication channels. Based on this, it will develop multilingual educational materials that incorporate traditional knowledge and community stories to resonate authentically.

Workshops in multiple languages will educate residents about harmful substances in consumer products—especially cosmetics and personal care items—and promote safer, eco-friendly alternatives. Local community members will be trained as Eco-Connect Ambassadors to sustain the education efforts, fostering leadership within the community.

Further, Eco-Connect will organize community actions like clean-ups, eco-fairs, and product swaps to encourage tangible environmental stewardship. The project will utilize social media and local outreach to amplify its message and foster a culture of sustainability.

Monitoring and evaluation will measure changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, with a focus on ensuring long-term sustainability through partnerships and community ownership. Overall, Eco-Connect aims to serve as a replicable model for culturally relevant environmental education that promotes environmental justice and health equity.

To support this initiative or ask questions about how to get involved, please reach out to us at info@paccpolicy.org