The CNE has a lot to boast about: an incredible midway and a great lineup of concerts and shows. There is another thing the CNE can brag about, something that goes unnoticed by many, and that is a commitment to the education and improvement of the environment. Not many people are aware that the CNE has a goal of 80% waste diversion for 2010 (and currently sits above 70%), or that the Press Building, which houses the administration of the fair, uses a Geothermal heating and cooling system. The Green Zone is our way of showing people not only what the CNE has been practicing for the past few years, but also highlighting other environmental initiatives available to the public.
This year’s development was a little more difficult with having to move from the Music Building to the Direct Energy Centre, resulting in a lot less space, and some disappointed groups wishing to bring exhibits. The pros, however, outweigh the cons in the exposure that our environmental initiatives are going to get being in such a high traffic area. Nearly every person that comes on the grounds will go through the Direct Energy Centre and if we can get even 10% of those people interested then we have done our job. While the Green Zone isn’t considered by many to be the “highlight” of their time at the EX, we hope that maybe this year we can make an impression, something that will get fair goers thinking as they return home for the evening. Or at least get the kids excited that they made birdfeeders.
Brittany Graul
CNE Green Zone Coordinator
