Preparing for change starts close to home

What does climate change look like in Durham Region, and how can communities prepare for the future together? Residents will explore these questions at the 2026 Durham Climate Forum, taking place on Saturday, November 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Regional Headquarters in Whitby. 

The free event will bring together residents, community organizations, First Nations leaders, health experts, sustainability professionals and local changemakers to explore what climate resilience looks like in Durham Region and how we can work together to build stronger, more prepared communities.

This year's theme, Preparing for Change: Local Knowledge, Practical Tools and Community Actions, highlights the important role everyone can play in responding to a changing climate. 

"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," says Ian McVey, Director of Environment and Climate for Durham Region.

One of the event's key strengths is the diversity of voices represented throughout the day. Attendees will hear from Chief Kelly LaRocca of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, who will share perspectives on climate change through a First Nations lens. Participants will also hear from 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, Sustainable Communities at Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.   Additional speakers from across the fields of climate adaptation, conservation, sustainability and community resilience will share real-world examples, practical tools and stories of collaboration happening across Durham Region and beyond. 

Together, these presentations will demonstrate that there is no single solution to climate change. Instead, resilience is built through many actions, perspectives and partnerships working toward a common goal. 

Visitors can explore exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, speak with representatives from more than 25 local organizations and even test drive electric vehicles. 

The forum comes at an important time, as Durham Region works with community partners to update the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan. The event offers an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to date, explore emerging climate trends and discuss how communities can continue adapting to future challenges. 

Climate resilience starts with informed, connected and engaged communities. By bringing people together to learn, share ideas and explore solutions, the Durham Climate Forum aims to help residents better understand their role in building a resilient future. 

Event details 

2026 Durham Climate Forum 
Saturday, November 14, 2026 
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Regional Headquarters 
605 Rossland Road East, Whitby 

Admission is free and residents of all ages are welcome. 

Come explore, learn and be part of the conversation about Durham Region's future.