Federal election 2025

Alternatives North and Ecology North collaborated to develop a set of questions on environmental and social justice issues for the NWT federal election candidates.  The questions were sent to each of the candidates to an email address identified on their respective websites or social media on April 14, with a request for a response by Friday April 18 at 5 pm.

Only one response was received from Rebecca Alty, the Liberal Party candidate (see below).  No responses were received from Kimberly Fairman (Conservative Party), Kelvin Kotchilea (New Democratic Party) and Rainbow Eyes (Green Party).  

This information is provided to the public to assist in making informed decisions.  We encourage all eligible residents to vote and take no position on who they should vote in the April 28, 2025 federal election.

What environmental and social priorities have you identified as key in this election?

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)–The NWT is on the front lines of climate change, and needs a partner at the federal level to make our communities more resilient. There are also many social issues affecting communities in the NWT, and what I have heard during the campaign is a strong need for more support for mental health and addictions across our territory.

What is the position of your political party on the climate crisis? What actions would you take to support Northern-specific climate solutions?

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)– In recent years the Liberal government has worked with Northern communities to support local climate resiliency projects, including funding fire breaks for each community that may be threatened by wildfires, as well as infrastructure to address shoreline erosion in Tuktoyaktuk. I want to work with communities to ensure that more of these types of projects are able to proceed with the support of the federal government. We also know that conservation can also help make communities more resilient, which is why Mark Carney has announced a Liberal government will create at least 10 new national parks and marine conservation areas, invest $100 million in a strategic water security technology fund, and establish a new Arctic Indigenous Guardians program. Beyond these new initiatives, I’ll continue to support the historic agreement – Our Land for the Future Agreement. This agreement was signed between 22 Indigenous Governments, the Government of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories, and private donors signed on November 14, 2024. The agreement will provide $375 million over 10 years for Indigenous-led conservation, stewardship, and economic development across the Northwest Territories. It will be one of the largest Indigenous-led conservation land initiatives in the world.

What are your views on mining critical minerals in the NWT? Are public subsidies and/or regulatory fast-tracking necessary?

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)– The Northwest Territories has incredible economic opportunities that can be supported by the federal government. Mining has been and will continue to be a key driver of the North’s economy, and I want to work with Indigenous communities and industry to support responsible development of natural resources in the NWT, including critical minerals. We know that closing the infrastructure gap will support economic development, which is why I advocate for projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Slave Geological Province Corridor. I will also be a strong voice for growing other sectors of our economy, including Indigenous tourism and culture, conservation, and agri-food and fishing. As MP, I will advocate for Indigenous employment and skills training and apprenticeship opportunities that address the needs of local communities. I will also work hard to secure federal investments from CanNor and other departments and agencies for projects that will spur Indigenous economic development. Through working with Indigenous governments and businesses, together we can help create a healthy and diversified economy in all communities across the NWT.

The Ticho Government requested a Regional Study in June 2021 to examine options for development between Yellowknife and the Arctic coast. The federal minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada approved the concept in February 2023, but nothing has been started or announced. What is your position on this Regional Study? Will you advocate for this initiative? 

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)– I am commited to working with all Indigenous governments in the Northwest Territories to advance their priorities with the Government of Canada.

Do you support a Basic Income Guarantee program for residents in the NWT? What will you do to ensure the federal government identifies this as a priority and provides appropriate support?

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)– I would be supportive of the federal government examining the concept of a basic income. However, my understanding is that a more effective way to address poverty would be to enhance existing programs that expressly benefit lower-income individuals, such as the Canada Workers Benefit and the Guaranteed Income Supplement. We have announced a one-time boost to the Guaranteed Income Supplement, which will provide up to $652 more to low-income seniors. 

What is your role and the role of the federal government in reducing the many and varied waste products in the NWT?

Rebecca Alty (Liberal Party)– The federal government has many tools to help reduce waste, as we have seen the Liberal government make progress on in recent years. There is a comprehensive regulatory agenda that will help move Canada towards our targets for reduction of plastic pollution. Through working with all levels of government, industry, NGOs, and international partners, we can make further progress on reducing waste globally and locally.

Earth week 2025

Earth Week 2025 starts on Tuesday, April 22nd, and runs until Saturday, May 3rd. All events are free and open to the public. Donations are kindly accepted.


Click on the daily events below for specific details.

Tuesday, April 22
12:00-1:00pm: Medicine Walk – Niven Lake Trail

Start off Earth Week by learning about traditional medicines from Lila Fraser Erasmus. We’ll walk the trail and enjoy a hot drink afterwards. Meet behind the Chateau Nova.

6:00-7:30pm: Regenerative Agriculture – TAA Office

Join the Territorial Agri-food Association for a screening of “Common Ground” followed by a discussion on regenerative agriculture in the NWT.

Time: 6:00-7:30pm

Location: 5004 Franklin Avenue

7:30-10:30pm: Open Mic Night – Yellowknife Books

Join us as we reflect on our relationships with our planet, nature, and sustainability! Present your work, someone else’s, or just enjoy the performances! Door prizes available.

Featuring an eco-theatre staged reading from Tin Can Collective and a reading from Laurie Sarkadi.

Time: 7:30-10:30pm

Location: Yellowknife Books

Wednesday, April 23

10:00-11:30am: Wacky Worm Wednesday – Yellowknife Public Library

Join Ecology North’s vermicompost expert for wormy activities and discussions. Meet us in the kid’s area. This event is family-friendly.

Time: 10:00-11:30am

Location: Yellowknife Public Library (Centre Square Mall)

12:00-1:00pm: EV Lunch & Learn – Somba K’e Charging Station

Come learn about Electric Vehicles (EVs) from YK Car Share Co-op. Meet one of the car share Bolts, and learn how car sharing works! A soup lunch will be provided!

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Somba K’e Charging Station

6:00-7:00pm: Community Litter Pickup – Somba K’e Civic Plaza

Time for some spring cleaning! Enjoy time outside with the Girl Guides and keep our community clean. We’ll provide the bags and gloves. Bring cash or e-transfer as Girl Guide cookies will be available for purchase!

Time: 6:00-7:00pm

Location: Somba K’e Civic Plaza

7:30-9:30pm: Waste Reduction Trivia – Sundog Trading Post

Show off your waste-related knowledge at trivia night! Compete with a team of up to 6 people, and win great prizes! There will be food and drinks available for purchase.

Time: 7:30-9:30pm

Location: Sundog Trading Post, 4 Lessard Drive

Thursday, April 24

10:00-11:30am: Eco-Mindfulness for Families – Yellowknife Public Library

Worried about the future? Join the NWT Literacy Council as we share tools to navigate climate change anxiety for parents (and expecting parents) with their families. We welcome children to this event and will provide art activities for all ages.

Time: 10:00-11:30am

Location: Yellowknife Public Library, Centre Square Mall, in the kid’s area

12:00-1:00pm: NWT Waters 101 – Yellowknife Visitor’s Centre

Wondering about water? Rotate through different stations and learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about northern waters from NWT hydrologists at this interactive event. This is an all-ages event. Snacks provided.

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Yellowknife Visitor’s Centre, Centre Square Mall

3:30-5:30: Butter Me Up – École Įtłʼǫ̀

Reduce your food waste with YK Food Rescue! We’ll learn how to make our own butter, including apple, maple, and other exciting flavours.

All materials are provided, though we encourage you to bring cream nearing its expiry date and extra flavouring you want to use up, like garlic, syrup, and more.

Time: 3:30-5:30pm

Location: École Įtłʼǫ̀, 5700 51a Ave

6:00-7:30pm: Bike Tune-Up – Makerspace YK

Experts from Overlander Sports, the Yellowknife Mountain Biking Club, and Communities in Motion will be available for basic tune-ups and simple repairs so you can get your bike road-ready!

Please note that we can only provide basic fixes. This event is first-come, first-serve. We reserve the right to turn people away if the event is coming to a close.

This event is free to the public, though we encourage donations for our hardworking volunteers.

Time: 6:00-7:30pm

Location: Makerspace YK, back deck, 5001 Forrest Drive

6:00-8:30pm: ARI event – Makerspace YK

Want to learn more about research happening in the NWT?

Hear from local researchers about shifting snowfall patterns in Yellowknife, and muskox migration from the tundra to the boreal forest.

This is the first of a four-part speaker series presented by Wilfrid Laurier University, the Cold Regions Research Center, and the Aurora Research Institute

Location: Makerspace YK, inside

Time: 6:00-8:30pm

Friday, April 25
12:00-1:00pm: Medicine Fire: Meditation on Earth Philosophies with Cassandra Blondin-Burt – online

Join us for a lunch and learn on transforming our relationship with fire with Cassandra Blondin-Burt.

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Register at Eventbrite or email ht.comms@tlicho.ca to receive the link.

4:00-6:00pm: Fireside Solidarity Chats with Seniors for Climate – Yellowknife Visitor’s Centre

Interested in social and climate justice? Come to our fireside chat! Connect with community organizers, local groups, and NGOs. There are so many ways to be involved. Snacks are provided – feel free bring some to share!

Time: 4:00-6:00pm

Location: Yellowknife Visitor’s Centre, 5022 49 St.

6:00-7:00pm: Clothing Swap drop-off ONLY

Drop off your clothes and books on Friday, April 25 from 6-7pm at Mildred Hall School. Then, come back Saturday, April 26th to shop for free!

Time: 6:00-7:00pm

Location: Mildred Hall School gym

Saturday, April 26

9:00am-2:00pm: Coffee House – Mildred Hall School
  • 9:00am-2:00pm – Clothing and Book Swap
    • Come shop for free in the gym!
  • 9:00am-1:00pm – Silent Auction
    • Bid on donated items from the community. All proceeds go to Ecology North.
  • 9:30am-12:00-pm – Bake Sale
    • Purchase some baked goods from Mildred Hall students. Cash only.
  • 9:30am-12:00pm – Musical and stage performances
    • Listen to talented local musicians and see Mildred Hall students’ performance of The Lorax.
  • 10:30-11:30am – Soil and Skin workshop with Ever Good Medicine (in the tipi)
    • Join Ever Good Medicine in the tipi as they detail the intricate ways how we are a part of the Land and leave with tangible next steps to be an ethical medicine gatherer. Limited space so please contact info@evergoodmedicine.com or DM @evergoodmedicine on Instagram.
  • 12:00-1:00 – Free Co-op barbecue, outside
    • Enjoy a free lunch in the parking lot, courtesy of Yellowknife Co-Op!
  • 12:00-2:00 – Electric Transportation Showcase, outside
    • Want to green up your transit?
    • Learn from electric vehicle and bike owners including Arctic Energy Alliance, YK Car Share Co-Op, and Communities in Motion – and maybe even hitch a free ride.
2:00-3:30pm: Tin Can Hill Treasure Hunt

Join us for a treasure hunt! Compete as a team – look for Golden Eggs and help clean up the trails for your chance to win some prizes!

Time: 2:00-3:30pm

Location: meet at the bottom of Tin Can Hill

4:00-5:00pm: Thrifted Fashion Show – École St. Patrick High School, rock area

Enjoy a thrifted fashion show from the stylings of the St. Pat’s students, featuring fits from the Clothing Swap! Bring a donation for the Food Bank in lieu of an entrance fee.

Time: 4:00-5:00pm

Location: École St. Patrick High School, Rock Area

5:00-7:00pm: Community Dinner – École St. Patrick High School

Join us for a free dinner outside as we celebrate the winners of the Tin Can Hill Treasure Hunt!

Time: 5:00-7:00pm

Location: École St. Patrick High School, outside

Sunday, April 27
10:00-11:00am: Queer Nature Hike – Tin Can Hill

Walk and talk with Ecology North and Northern Mosaic Network staff as we discuss queerness in nature. Hot drinks are provided after the walk.

Time: 10:00-11:00am

Location: Meet at the top of Tin Can Hill

3:00-4:00pm: Guided StoryWalk – Niven Lake Trail

Join the NWT Literacy Council for a guided StoryWalk of Cathy Modeste-Short’s book, “Dechı̨tah Náıdı́: Medicine from the Land.” There will be games and prizes provided by the NWT Literacy Council.

Time: 3:00-4:00pm

Location: Meet your guide at Niven Lake Trailhead

Monday, April 28

Get out and vote!

Locate your polling station here:

www.electionsnwt.ca/en/polling-locations

12:00-1:00pm: DIY Seed Paper – Tastes of the North

Join the Territorial Agrifood Association as we turn old paper scraps into new seed paper that’s good to grow! All materials provided.

This event is part of the Territorial Agrifood Association’s “Good to Grow” Earth Week series.

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Tastes of the North, 5004 50th Avenue

NEW TIME: 7:00-8:30pm: Movie Night – Wall-E – Capitol Theatre

Join us for a free screening of Wall-E (rated G), everyone’s favourite garbage-cleaning robot! Hosted by Arctic Energy Alliance. Snacks not provided but the concession stand will be open.

Time: 6:30-8:00pm

Location: Capitol Theatre

Tuesday, April 29

12:00-1:00pm: Seed Spiralling – Tastes of the North

Learn how to spiral your seeds in this zero-waste planting workshop. This is a perfect way to get your seedlings started for your summer garden. All materials provided.

This event is part of the Territorial Agrifood Association’s “Good to Grow” Earth Week series.

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Tastes of the North, 5004 50th Avenue

5:00-6:30pm: Beeswax Food Wraps – Makerspace YK

Reduce your reliance on plastic and upcycle your fabric scraps into reusable beeswax covers to keep your food fresh. Bring your fabric and we’ll provide the wax! Any fabric can be turned into a cover.

Time: 5:00-6:30pm

Location: Makerspace YK, 5001 Forrest Drive

7:00-9:00pm: Giant Mine: Past, Present & Future – Northern United Place

How do we remember Giant Mine?

Alternatives North invites you to presentations by guest speakers giving their perspectives on Giant Mine. Panel discussion to follow. Snacks and hot drinks provided.

This panel builds on last year’s discussion, Communicating the Future.

Time: 7:00-9:00pm

Location: Northern United Place auditorium, 5403 50th Ave

Wednesday, April 30

12:00-1:00pm: Garden Sign-Making – Tastes of the North

Bedazzle your metal mason jar lids and make your own garden markers at this free art workshop. All materials provided.

This event is part of the Territorial AgriFood Association’s “Good to Grow” Earth Week series.

Time: 12:00-1:00pm

Location: Tastes of the North, 5004 50th Ave

6:00-7:00pm: Contes de Mère Nature – Northern United Place

Venez découvrir une histoire inspirée par la force de la Nature! Assistez à la toute dernière création de nos conteuses, Shé & Jo, présentée dans le cadre de la Semaine de la Terre.

Time: 6:00-7:00

Location: Northern United Place auditorium, 5403 50th Ave

6:00-8:30pm: Let’s Jam Together – Northern United Place

Jam with Hotii ts’eeda as we learn how to make jam, sterilize jars, and enjoy delicious bannock. Bring a jar home to share! All materials provided, though we welcome any additions of frozen fruit that you’d like to get rid of!

Time: 6:00-8:30pm

Location: Northern United Place, kitchen, 5403 50th Avenue

Thursday, May 1

6:00-7:00: Critical Mass Bike Ride – Centre Ice Plaza

Reclaim the roads with Communities in Motion and SHIFT NWT!

Meet at Centre Ice Plaza (480 Old Airport Rd) and bike to Somba K’e Park! After the ride, join us for a meet and greet at the park, and get to know your fellow cyclists!

Time: 6:00-7:00pm

Location: Meet at Centre Ice Plaza (480 Old Airport Rd)

7:00-9:00pm: Restorying the Anthropocene – Yellowknife Books

Join researcher and journalist Cassandra Blondin-Burt for a guided arts workshop on what it means to reframe the anthropocene in times of crisis.

We’ll be chatting, drawing, writing, and restorying together!

Time: 7:00-9:00pm

Location: Yellowknife Books, 4914 49 Street

Friday, May 2

7:00-11:30pm: The Green Gala

Let’s celebrate our planet!

Dress up in your finest upcycled outfit and put on your thrifted dancing shoes because it’s time for a party. Enjoy music, dancing, DIY decor, charcuterie, and more!

We’ll be launching our new responsible environmental management website!

Entry is free as long as you have a ticket. Tickets are limited and available HERE. This event is 19+. There will be alcohol available for purchase.

Time: 7:00pm-11:30pm

Location: The Elks Lodge, 4919 49 St.

Saturday, May 3

11:00am-1:00pm: Feeding the Fire Ceremony – Somba K’e Civic Plaza

We will feed the fire, enjoy a drum dance, and celebrate our relationship to the land, ourselves and each other. Enjoy stew and bannock afterwards.

Time: 11:00am-1:00pm

Location: Somba K’e Civic Plaza


We’re so excited to celebrate with you!

Earth Week 2023

Earth Week 2023 is set for April 21-28! We’re very excited to celebrate Earth Week safely with all of our environmental warriors! This year’s schedule brings back some favourites from years past and new activities you can do with all of your friends and family!

Kick off Earth Week with us at lunch on April 21 at Somba K’e Park with a Feeding the Fire ceremony! View the full schedule below.

Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram as we highlight our Earth Week events.

Interested in volunteering? Sign up here!

Earth Week 2022

Earth Week 2022 is our debut back to in-person events! We’re very excited to celebrate Earth Week safely with all of our environmental warriors! This year’s schedule brings back some favourites from years’ past and new activities you can do with all of your friends and family! Please mask appropriately at our events. 

Kick off Earth Week with us at lunch on Earth Day (April 22) at Somba K’e Park! View the full schedule below.

Attend our events and collect 6 stamps for a chance to win a prize! Passports are available at the Ecology North office or print here. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram as we highlight our Earth Week events.

Take climate action!

Ecology North teamed up with illustrator, Alison McCreesh, to help you and your community mitigate and adapt to climate change. What climate actions can you check off today? Where can you make changes tomorrow? Print a copy and track your progress! Every big climate action starts with a small step. 

Thank you to the Government of Canada for supporting this project.