Mac prof joins national network of ‘Women for Nature’
'I've always had an interest in animals, camping and exploring nature,' says Gail Krantzberg, director of the University's Centre for Engineering and Public Policy and a founding member of the Women for Nature environmental awareness initiative.
Gail Kranztberg was “born a tree-hugger,” and her passion for the environment certainly hasn’t wilted over the years.
Krantzberg, a McMaster engineering professor and director of the University’s Centre for Engineering and Public Policy, has joined forces with a brand new federal initiative committed to environmental conservation and awareness, Women for Nature.
The initiative was conceived by Nature Canada to help unite the leadership, knowledge and passion of women with an interest in nature conservation. Women for Nature currently boasts more than 50 members, including researchers, teachers, artists, politicians and environmental activists from across the country.
Krantzberg is currently the only member from McMaster, but hopes the national network will grow to include other members of the University community.
“People want to get involved and make a difference when it comes to the environment, but they don’t always know where to start. I had a number of wonderful mentors when I was growing up, and I want to help pass the torch to a whole new generation,” she explained.
“The overall goal is to have a presence at senior levels of government, and reinforce the notion that nature preservation is important for all of Canada.”
Women for Nature officially launched during a Feb. 4 ceremony at Centre Block on Parliament Hill. Senators Janis Johnson and Nancy Green Raine hosted the launch event, along with MPs Stella Ambler, Linda Duncan, Joyce Murray, Kirsty Duncan and Elizabeth May, leader of the Green Party of Canada.
“This is an opportunity to celebrate a diverse group of accomplished Canadian women who have chosen to join Nature Canada in championing nature conservation,” said Ian Davidson, executive director of Nature Canada, in a press release issued last week.
“These women are a driving force in Canadian society, and they are at the heart of our efforts to engage and empower Canadians to advocate for nature, save species and protect habitats and connect children to nature.”
Founded in 1939, Nature Canada is a non-profit organization comprised of more than 350 naturalist groups across Canada and roughly 40,000 supporters. It is widely regarded as the largest grassroots voice for nature conservation in the country.
Those wishing to get involved in Women for Nature, or simply learn more about local conservation efforts in the Hamilton area, are encouraged to contact Krantzberg at krantz@mcmaster.ca.
