OTTAWA – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and MP (Saanich – Gulf Islands), issued the following statement on World Environment Day:
“World Environment Day is an internationally recognized day to celebrate the efforts of those who work for a healthier environment. It has been marked by the United Nations since 1972 on the occasion of the first global conference on the human environment. Today we thank the many environmental organizations — big and small — across Canada working to remediate environmental damage, restore wildlife and fish habitat, protect endangered species and ecosystems and work for the transition to a more sustainable economy.
“This year’s theme – Seven Billion Dreams, One Planet, Consume with Care – drives home the imperative that the human family globally must live within the limits of the biosphere. That will require greater equity, increased rights for women and girls to reduce the growth in global population, while moving rapidly to clean and green energy and technology. ”
“Unfortunately, Stephen Harper has encouraged a risky economic and environmental practice of unsustainable growth in resource extraction. This year, Canadians will have an opportunity to assess the environmental records of their candidates and parties. The Green Party’s policies have been clear: we must move to a sustainable and healthy economy creating secure long-term jobs.
“Today, on World Environment Day, let’s remember to thank environmental and conservation groups for their commitment through additional donations of volunteer hours and donations. together, we can make the changes the planet – and Canadians – need!”