Regional Councillor Brampton Wards 1 & 5

City of Brampton showcasing local efforts globally at international climate conference in Germany

City of Brampton Regional Councillor Rowena Santos has been selected as one of 15 municipal representatives worldwide to participate in the Fit for Climate Change – How Cities and Municipalities are Meeting the Challenges of Climate Change, paid for and hosted by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

“It is a privilege to represent Brampton on the global stage and learn directly from municipalities that are leading in climate action. Germany’s success with recycling, waste reduction and producer-responsibility models offers valuable insights that we can adapt locally. I look forward to bringing these lessons back to Brampton as we continue building a city that is resilient, sustainable and future-ready.”

Councillor Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 5; Chair, Community Services Section; Vice-Chair, Economic Development Section, City of Brampton

This invitation-only program will bring together municipal leaders from across the globe to share innovative practices and strengthen collaboration on climate change adaptation and sustainability.

The City’s participation highlights Brampton’s commitment to advancing environmental priorities at home and building international relationships that drive both economic and environmental progress. Through the Grow Green Environmental Master Plan, Brampton is accelerating climate action, guided by Council’s climate emergency declaration in 2019. The City is investing in cleaner transit and infrastructure, leading North America’s largest bus electrification project and introducing Ontario’s first electric fire truck. Local businesses are being supported through the Business Climate Action Program, while community investments are restoring and protecting green spaces with projects such as bioswales, rain gardens and wetland restoration. Brampton is reducing emissions through solar installations on City facilities, a new energy management strategy and staff training focused on climate action.

Building on this strong foundation, Councillor Santos’ participation in the “Fit for Climate Change” program will strengthen Brampton’s sustainability goals through knowledge sharing and collaboration with German municipalities and companies. This includes opportunities to learn from Germany’s advanced recycling and producer-responsibility systems while also positioning Brampton as a leader in building resilient, forward-looking communities.

The conference will feature sessions on climate adaptation, sustainable infrastructure and municipal innovation, while providing opportunities to engage directly with German municipalities and industry leaders.

As Councillor Rowena Santos’s reappointment as Chair for a third term reflects her outstanding leadership and commitment to Brampton and municipalities nationwide. Her continued role at FCM ensures that Brampton’s priorities are well-represented while helping shape stronger, more resilient communities across Canada. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Councillor Santos.

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