Calgary Community Gathers at FCJ Centre to Learn Everyday Energy and Water Stewardship

The FCJ Retreat and Conference Centre recently hosted a community Energy Efficiency Workshop with Green Calgary as part of its Season of Creation series last September 10, 2026. While an initial session was held on September 3rd specifically for FCJ staff and sisters, this second gathering opened the doors to the broader public to share practical, everyday strategies for cutting energy use, saving money, and protecting the local watershed.

Led by Green Calgary in partnership with ENMAX, the presentation focused on accessible, budget-friendly ways to improve home sustainability. Presenters demonstrated simple fixes like installing foam gaskets behind exterior wall outlets, sealing drafty windows, and insulating copper hot water pipes to keep heat from escaping.

The workshop connected home energy management directly to water conservation efforts. To help community members take immediate action, ENMAX provided free home efficiency kits containing LED light bulbs, power bars to eliminate phantom power draws, and suction-cup timers to help keep household showers under five minutes. Beyond everyday home tips, the discussion highlighted innovative community-led building practices.

Attendees learned about 3D-printed concrete housing projects developed by First Nations like Siksika Nation, which produce sturdy, well-insulated homes in under a week. The group also covered local conservation steps, including setting up rain barrels, protecting natural riparian buffer zones along riverbanks, and accessing municipal rebate programs.

Building on the earlier training for staff and sisters, this public session demonstrated how small, intentional habits at home empower the wider community to care for creation and safeguard local rivers.#