By Mark Taliano
“Il Faut Cultiver Notre Jardin” – Voltaire
Human induced global warming is here.
Good science proves it, most of us believe it, and Welland is at the forefront in addressing it in many ways.
Welland’s future lies in the cultivation of new ideas and new technologies such as LED lighting, thermal steel, organic farming, and community gardens.
Political forces and grass-roots activists are gaining strength and momentum: the Council of Canadians supports local and fair trade initiatives, 350.org groups endorse local environmental action.
Averting global environmental catastrophes also makes good economic sense. Welland’s large manufacturing industries have by and large left us in the name of “economic colonization” in other countries.
Consequently, our new path is likely the only path to light and enrich our way, but also the way for other communities nation-wide. Kudos to the local politicians who endorse and promote a distinctive Welland of neighbourhoods versus sprawling subdivisions; transformative, green economic initiatives over fossil fuel- oriented ones, and local participatory government over streamlining.
Together, our strengths can “trickle up” and influence national and global scenes. Cultivons notre jardin.
Mark Taliano is a resident of Welland, Ontario.
Niagara At Large 
Welland is a prime victim of NAFTA the lousy deal where we export all our good jobs for free,free trade pushed by that brain dead group called The Chamber of Commerce of Canada.Welland is fighting for it’s life, god bless them,I wish them all the best, good old Welland.
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Welland also has the Ruby Eco Award to recognize business conservation efforts, some very walkable neighbourhoods with 5 nominated this year. Kudos to all those individuals and orgs that made an effort to reduce your footprints, and educate.
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