OTTAWA.- Science Literacy Week is nearly here, and researchers across Canada are preparing to present their latest findings on a key indicator of environmental health and sustainability: biodiversity. This year’s Science Literacy Week will take place from September 21 to 27, 2020, and will focus on biodiversity in Canada with a series of live virtual events/activities/sessions/talks/programs appropriate for all ages/school-aged children aged 4 to 16.
To celebrate, the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is organizing several virtual activities featuring local scientific experts and researchers who will get you up to speed on the latest in Canadian biodiversity. This annual celebration of the wonderful world of science is the ideal opportunity to learn new things and find out more about some of the most remarkable scientific organizations in Canada.
Globally, it is recognized that:
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A larger number of plant species means a wider variety of crops
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Healthy ecosystems can better withstand and recover from a variety of disasters
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Greater species diversity in all of Earth’s flora and fauna means greater opportunity for medical discoveries, economic development, and adaptive responses to such new challenges as climate change.
Come satisfy your intellectual curiosity and participate in one of the many environmental discussions on issues related to biodiversity. As the adage says “Think globally, act locally” and OPL’s invites you to get up to date on the latest science that will allow you to inform your actions. When it comes to making change, knowledge is power so take this opportunity during Science Literacy Week to expand your understanding with these fascinating and informative events:
For Children:
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Connecting to Nature - Backyards and Beyond, on Monday September 21, 2020 at 5 pm;
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Wild World, on Wednesday Sep 23, 2020 at 4 pm;
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Let's Talk Science in Ottawa - paper science!, on Thursday, September 24, 2020 at 4 pm;
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Zootopia: Code a District (for ages 10-16), on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at 6:30 pm;
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Le Royaume animal, on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 10 am;
For adults:
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Backyard Biodiversity: Creating a haven for the little critters that run the world, on Monday September 21, 2020 at 12 pm;
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A hitchhikers guide to saving the bees (and the planet), on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 at 6 pm.
Science Literacy Week would not be possible without the active participation of local universities and scientific organizations, including the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, the Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife Centre, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Let’s Talk Science and many more.
In addition to these activities, a variety of recent publications on Canadian biodiversity will be available in OPL’s collection, in paper and digital formats.
Get ready to indulge your inner scientist and register now for our expert presentations! For more information on this program, visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.