Mark Simmons
Co-Chair
Experience I bring to the role
I’ve spent most of my professional career in the public and not-for-profit sectors, where I’ve played a leading role in a wide range of provincial policies, programs and projects. I currently serve as a Team Lead in the Ontario Ministry of Health, where I provide policy leadership on a range of strategic initiatives designed to improve the health system.
I’m also proud to be a member of Canada Reduces, the highly successful GNN member group which helps businesses reduce waste and cut costs by encouraging their customers to use bring-your-own reusables. I also co-founded St. Lawrence Reduces, a waste reduction program in Toronto’s St. Lawrence area that is based on the Canada Reduces model.
I previously also served as a Board member for VegTO, a Toronto-based not-for-profit that inspires people to choose a healthier, greener, more compassionate lifestyle through plant-based eating.
Environmental issues I’m passionate about
I strongly believe that we as a society need to evolve to a more sustainable lifestyle, including by decreasing consumerism, reducing the environmental impacts of animal agriculture and ending our reliance on fossil fuels.
Best part of volunteering with GNN
We all have a part to play in stopping the climate crisis and living more sustainably. GNN offers the opportunity to do just that, connecting people with others who share their concerns and giving them the support they need to take meaningful action.
Personal fun fact
I’m a former amateur thrill seeker, and have gone skydiving, hang gliding and white water rafting, been canyoning in Ecuador, ziplining in Costa Rica and swimming with sharks in The Bahamas. Age and wisdom has led me to less risky pursuits, like enjoying live music and walks along the waterfront. 🙂
