There are over 400 municipalities in Ontario, as well as 500 local environmental groups, and thousands of other community-based or cultural organizations. Community-based action is an important part of a provincial and national environmental strategies. It's one of the most effective ways to reach people.

The section contains information to help organize communities for action -- provincial networks, an organizer's guide, a list of organized communities across Ontario, project ideas, and sources for project funds.
 

Community Network Organizations
Ontario has thee major networks for community organizing around environment and health issues. They are:
Green Communities Canada: founded under the provincial Green Communities Initiative of the early 1990's, the Green Communities Association has expended to become a national organization.  Member groups specialize in energy conservation and home green-ups.
 Ontario Healthy Communities Coalition: also founded in the early 1990's, the OHCC brings together environmental, social, cultural, health, and economic interests under one roof.
Millenium Eco-Communities: A federally-sponsored initiative, MEC provides support services to communities that wish to organize and carry out environmental projects.

Projects and Campaigns
If you are looking for project ideas, here are some of the provincial organizations that run special campaigns and may have a list of community contacts.

Earth Day Canada  
Ontario Parks Association (Community Parks Week)
Recycling Council of Ontario (Waste Reduction Week)

Toxic Free:  Click here for a free PDF manual on how to organize a community campaign on alternatives to household hazards.