September 30th marks the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. This day is a time to reflect on the history and legacy of colonialism and residential schools, honour survivors, and commit to meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
At Green Sky, we recognize that Indigenous Peoples have a long history of living sustainably, guided by traditional ecological knowledge that reflects deep relationships with the land, waters, and ecosystems. These ways of knowing are critical not only to cultural identity but also to advancing climate resilience and adaptation across North America.
Our role as a consulting partner has given us the privilege of working alongside First Nation communities to complete Climate Risk Assessments (CRAs). These assessments identify potential climate-related risks—such as flooding, extreme temperatures, or disruptions to essential services—and provide recommendations that inform infrastructure design and community planning. While highly technical in nature, CRAs are ultimately about people: they help ensure that new facilities, services, and programs can continue to serve community members safely and effectively in the face of a changing climate.
We hope that our work in this area has contributed in some small way to supporting Indigenous communities in building resilience, strengthening wellness, and creating safer spaces for generations to come.
Reconciliation is not only about reflecting on the past—it is also about shaping a future where equity, respect, and collaboration guide our collective response to challenges like climate change. By listening, learning, and walking alongside Indigenous partners, we can better align technical expertise with cultural values, and help build a more resilient, just, and sustainable future for all.
