On October 1, Walrus Talks Energy landed in Ottawa for a lively 90-minute dialogue on energy.
Presented by Suncor, The Walrus Talks Energy events are being held across Canada. Eight speakers, with a diversity of perspectives on energy, are each given seven minutes to present their views. They don’t debate, nor do they reference others’ remarks. A reception immediately follows, where speakers and attendees have an opportunity for varied and open discussion. The format is intended to be thought-provoking and inspire conversation.
About 330 people attended the Ottawa event, including community members, politicians, government workers, academics, and students.
At the reception following the event, Suncor team members joined the conversation, chatting with participants and answering questions on everything from reclamation to water use. Information was also available on Suncor’s bi-weekly Oil Sands Question and Response (OSQAR) blog, and how to subscribe.
“The Walrus Talks Energy events are one example of how we’re working to support a larger national dialogue on energy, one that broadens perspectives by bringing together diverse viewpoints, helping us all see new possibilities,” says Lori Gammell, project manager, social innovation and the Suncor Energy Foundation.
So far, Walrus Talks Energy events have taken place in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. In 2015, a Walrus energy event is planned for St. John, New Brunswick. We’ll also return to Toronto in the fall of 2015 for a more specific dialogue on energy and transportation.
As Arlene Strom, Suncor’s VP sustainability and communications, said during her closing remarks in Ottawa, “We all want the same things – economic prosperity, improved social well-being and a healthy environment. We need to look for opportunities to move past the debate, and focus on dialogue, idea sharing and action. Greater conversation, cooperation, and collaboration will help us all get to a better place.”
You can view the event recording at www.thewalrus.ca/tv. It's expected to be up the week of October 6.