Derek’s entrepreneurial drive and promotion of green energy in his community have contributed to the reduction of 1000 tonnes of green house gas emissions in just two years.
Derek is a local green energy leader and advocate in his community. His efforts have helped Kitchener reduce its environmental impact by diverting over 1 000 tonnes of local greenhouse gas emissions in just two years. His most significant initiative is volunteering as President of the Board (2007-2009) for Community Renewable Energy Waterloo (CREW). Under Derek’s leadership, CREW developed successful initiatives involving the education and promotion of energy conservation and sustainable energy use within the community.
Derek also founded green business initiatives of his own. OntarioGreenSpec.ca is on online forum for citizens of Ontario to access green building products and service providers. He also created the Local Initiative for Future Energy Co-operative Inc. (LIFE), a locally owned wind and biogas energy co-op, where members can work together to generate their own electricity.
Other environmental heroics of Derek include
- Authoring Kitchener’s proposed Solar City program
- Serving as a representative to the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association
- Helping to create the Green Energy Act
- Serving as a member of the advisory board for Sustainable Waterloo.
Derek’s passion for combining sustainable energy, community and business is applauded in his hometown and is highly recognized for his knowledge and involvement with green energy initiatives.
