BC wildfires and the rising costs of climate change

Details: Published on Thursday, 20 July 2017 18:00; Written by editor

r1 Wildfires spark conversation about the costs of the fossil fuel economy r19 JULY 2017 | Donate | Leave a Legacy

DONATE Dear Paov,

Climate change is on the minds of many British Columbians this month, as wildfires burn around the province. In Victoria, a new provincial government is stepping into office. Meanwhile, the federal government has released proposals for reform on Canada’s most important environmental laws – and now they need to hear from YOU.

Check out our latest news and analysis on these key issues and more.BC’s forest fires show us the true cost of the fossil fuel economy

Our hearts go out to the communities hit by BC's devastating wildfires. Unfortunately, this is just the beginning – with BC expected to see more wildfires, floods, and other impacts of climate change. In light of this growing crisis, Staff Counsel Andrew Gage asks: what is the true cost of the fossil fuel economy?

The District of Highlands on Vancouver Island is also asking about the fossil fuel industry’s fair share of climate costs. Read about the first-ever “climate accountability letter,” which the District sent to 20 fossil fuel companies. Canada's Environmental Reviews Discussion Paper: Ins, outs, ups and downs

This June, the federal government released a discussion paper outlining its proposed reforms of key environmental laws – with a focus on strengthening environmental assessments. Read the overview from Staff Counsel Anna Johnston to see how the proposals stack up against our recommendations for fixing these important laws and processes.

Take action: Write your MP to demand a new environmental assessment law that properly protects nature, communities and Indigenous rights. Is sustainability BC’s competitive economic advantage?

In the global economy, each region looks for its competitive advantage. What if instead of ramping up resource exploitation, BC based its economic advantage on a sustainable economy?

Check out our tips for BC's new “emerging economy” task force, and share your views with Premier John Horgan. Quality and quantity: Moving towards real protection for our oceans

Canada is moving ahead on its commitments to protect 10% of our oceans by 2020 – but will new marine protected areas actually safeguard ecosystems and wildlife from harmful activities?

West Coast law student Mari Galloway looks at the legal standards needed to ensure marine protection targets are met in a meaningful way. Truth-Telling 150: Our reflections on reconciliACTION

With all the activity this month surrounding Canada 150, we have been thinking a lot about Canada's colonial history, reconciliation, and how important it is to support Indigenous allies in our work to protect the environment.

Here are some thoughts from Maxine Matilpi, project lead on our RELAW Project, as well as reflections from other West Coast staff.

Forward West Coast Environmental Law
200 - 2006 West 10th Avenue
Vancouver, BC
V6J 2B3 phone: 604.684.7378
fax: 604.684.1312
toll-free in BC: 1.800.330.WCEL
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.Update Profile Manage Subscriptions r42

The Legal E-Brief is a publication of West Coast Environmental Law Association