Young children of Tsleil-Waututh Nation are learning that the future can be eco-friendly. A solar tracker made up of 40 solar panels was installed near the nation’s childcare centre and playground, powering 90 per cent of the building’s energy needs.

Dale Komanchuk, director of public works, said: “We chose solar energy because it was the most feasible and it’s the second of its kind in Canada, with an on-board computerized tracker that follows the sun.”

More than just an alternative energy source, the solar panels provide a powerful statement to the oil industry that threatens Burrard Inlet.

“We installed this solar tracker outside of our daycare centre to remind our children daily that there are alternatives to oil,” said Carleen Thomas of the TWN Sacred Trust initiative. “We are walking the talk.”