Durham Region residents are being invited to spend a Saturday exploring what a changing climate means for their communities — and what they can do about it — at the free 2026 Durham Climate Forum.
The event runs Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Regional Headquarters, 605 Rossland Rd. E. in Whitby. Admission is free and residents of all ages are welcome, according to the Region of Durham.
A day built around local climate readiness
This year's theme, Preparing for Change: Local Knowledge, Practical Tools and Community Actions, puts the focus on the practical side of climate resilience — the steps residents, organizations and municipalities can take together to prepare for extremes in weather, infrastructure strain and public health impacts.
"Climate change affects many aspects of daily life, from extreme weather and infrastructure to public health, natural spaces and community well-being. Building climate resilience requires collaboration among governments, community organizations, businesses, researchers and residents. It also means learning from diverse perspectives and experiences to better understand local risks, opportunities and solutions. The Durham Climate Forum provides an opportunity for our community to come together and have these important conversations," Ian McVey, the Region's Director of Environment and Climate, said in a Region of Durham news release.
The lineup of speakers spans First Nations leadership, public health, conservation and sustainability.
Chief Kelly LaRocca of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation will share perspectives on climate change through a First Nations lens. Also on the program are Tara Zupancic, senior climate change and health specialist with the Durham Region Health Department; Ewa Jackson, managing director of ICLEI Canada; Brent Kopperson, executive director and founder of Windfall Ecology Centre; and Jennifer Taves, senior manager of sustainable communities at the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
Additional speakers from climate adaptation, conservation, sustainability and community resilience fields will share real-world examples, tools and stories of collaboration from across Durham Region and beyond.
Exhibits, hands-on activities and EV test drives
Beyond the talks, visitors can browse exhibits, join hands-on activities and speak with representatives from more than 25 local organizations. Attendees will also have the chance to test drive electric vehicles at the venue.
The forum lands at a significant moment for the Region's climate planning. Durham is currently working with community partners to update the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan, and the event offers residents a chance to reflect on progress to date, learn about emerging climate trends and weigh in on how communities should keep adapting.
The message from organizers is that there is no single fix for climate change. Instead, resilience is built through many actions, perspectives and partnerships aimed at a common goal — and it starts with communities that are informed, connected and engaged.
No registration fee applies. Residents interested in staying informed about the Region's activities, events and programs can subscribe to the Region's eNewsletters through its website.
2026 Durham Climate Forum: Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Regional Headquarters, 605 Rossland Rd. E., Whitby. Admission is free.
