This weekend, Living Green Barrie wants residents to move beyond climate anxiety and start planting seeds—literally and metaphorically—for a better future.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the noise,” says Andee Pelan, executive director of Living Green Barrie. “People are shutting down, and sadly that’s the exact opposite of what we need. Earth Day is about offering hope, optimism—and action.”
That message feels especially urgent this year. In the wake of a severe ice storm that battered the Barrie area, Earth Day and the month of May will focus heavily on trees: planting them, caring for them, and recognizing their role in a more sustainable future.
“We're about hope,” Pelan says. “You plant a tree now—even if you’re in your 80s—you’re not planting it for yourself. You’re planting it for future generations. Is there anything more hopeful than that?”
Living Green Barrie is kicking off its efforts with a unique Earth Day event on April 26, blending sustainability with community spirit. The “Swap Your E for Trees” drive invites residents to drop off e-waste (think old TVs, printers, laptops) or food donations for the Native Friendship Centre’s Hunger for Hope program. In exchange, they’ll receive a baby tree to plant at home.
“It’s symbolic,” Pelan explains. “You’re turning something harmful into something healing—walking away with a tree while responsibly disposing of your electronics.”
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Quantum Recycling, 220 John Street, Barrie. Living Green Barrie staff and local arborists will be on site to answer questions, and Cleanup Barrie will be handing out free litter kits and hosting a mini clean-up of the area.
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But the momentum won’t stop there. May is shaping up to be a tree-filled month, with four community planting events, all listed on the Living Green Barrie website. The organization encourages residents—especially families and newcomers—to get involved.
“Planting a tree is one of the most grounding things you can do,” Pelan says. “It’s a beautiful way to lay literal and symbolic roots in your community.”
All trees and shrubs planted at these events are native species, grown to thrive in local conditions and support biodiversity.
Living Green Barrie is also calling for volunteers and donors. As a registered charity, the organization relies heavily on community support—and that support is needed now more than ever.
“Sponsorships, grants, donations—they’re all drying up,” Pelan notes. “But this is our home. If we want a better future, we need to step up and take care of it.”
For details about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, or to sign up for their newsletter, visit livinggreenbarrie.com.
