Environment taking a back seat to Trump and new energy projects: Op-ed
The sun rises over the Arctic landscape in Resolute Bay, Nunavut. Photo: Danielle Paradis/APTN.
It is truly unfortunate that the climate crisis is not top of mind for most voters but I also feel the emotions that have been triggered by [U.S. President] Donald Trump and the threat to Canadian sovereignty and to our economy.
I feel the fear for jobs, anger at Trump’s complete disregard for human rights and his dismantling of so many of the initiatives that have greatly benefited the environment.
And then there is the “Elbows Up” rally for a strong Canada. Such turmoil.
The impact of Trump’s actions on Canada are very real and there are election promises for fast tracking of new fossil fuel projects – all under the banner of finding new markets for Canadian resources and boosting the economy.
I think it’s very short sighted. Our overheating planet does not care about politics. Consent by Indigenous Nations should not be assumed. It is my position that Canada should not be building new fossil fuel projects!
It is my wish that these turbulent times be seen as an opportunity to transition away from fossil fuels and double down on advancing renewable energy projects.
The proposal for a coast to coast electricity transmission corridor is a great example of what should be the focus. Electrification of everything, increasing battery capacity and power generation by renewables is what will get us to a more livable earth.
There has not been near enough talk about all of the jobs that can be created from big infrastructure projects like this. I understand that people fear for their jobs and just want a good life for their families.
As a citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, I am on a journey to discover what it means to be Métis in this modern world. I have lived and worked in cities for most of my life. My connection to the land might be practiced in a different way than my ancestors.
I love the native flowers that I have planted in my own garden and celebrate the bees that these flowers attract. I physically feel the pain of the earth hurting as it overheats.
I want to be a good ancestor to future generations.
That is why I am actively working on a political campaign for the candidate in my riding that I feel supports the most climate friendly policies. I am building relationships with my candidate that I hope will be my MP because there will be a lot of work to do after the election. I will be part of teams that lobby our MPs to champion policy that will make this world more livable.
And I am always having conversations with folks to get them to vote, to talk about climate and to take personal actions that will make a difference.
We need action on all levels.
Cathy Page is a proud Métis from Alberta who is retired and living in Calgary. She says her retirement offers her the chance to volunteer for causes she is passionate about including inspiring others to make the world a more livable place. One of her volunteer positions is with Citizens Climate Lobby Canada.
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