The good news is that this global action – turning off their lights, holding vigils, and marking the importance of climate action – is now a recognized part of our international culture.  The bad news is that every year the need to raise awareness and act to stop rising temperatures and extreme weather events brought on by rising GHG levels is greater than ever.

There simply is no adequate response to the crisis that is developing before our eyes.  In fact, with the new rush to extract oil, shale gas, and minerals, thus increasing carbon emissions, is pushing us closer to disaster – and possibly irreversible climate catastrophe.

Scientists and climate experts have warned that 350 parts-per-million (ppms) of CO2 in our atmosphere is the safe upper limit.  We are now at 392 ppms – a level of carbon 30 per cent above any level over the last million years (based on Antarctic ice core data) – and this is rising about 2 ppms a year.

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, MP Saanich will be celebrating Earth Hour in her riding at a candlelight potluck.  For those interested in more information or attending, you can learn more and sign up now.

“I have been taking part in Earth Hour from its inception,” said May, “This year, after watching the destruction of our crucial environmental legislation and more, I’m urging as many Canadians as possible to show their support for this event.  It helps to raise consciousness and reduce emissions, recognizing its primary value is symbolic.  Join Greens from around the world in celebrating Earth Hour.”

In Ottawa, there will be a Green Party event on Parliament Hill starting at 8pm.   Learn more about Earth Hour events on their website.

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I look at this in light of the independent study by the World Wildlife Fund that found that:

Mounting an effective response to a major oil spill in the Arctic is presently not possible due to enormous environmental challenges, a lack of capacity and the severe limitations of current response methods in ice-covered waters. 

The same report identified a so-called response gap whereby, due to the Arctic’s remoteness and extreme weather there is also a high percentage of time when no response, however ineffective, could even be attempted.

We need to have a precautionary approach. We need to develop a strategy for the prevention of oil spills. I assert again that Canada should use its leadership as chair of the Arctic Council to pursue a matter for an oil spill prevention strategy for the Arctic and not be complacent.

Greg Rickford: Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned, our government fully recognizes the importance of economic growth and environmental protection. Canada has robust environmental legislation and standards, a tough safety regime and experienced independent regulators to oversee offshore activities.

The National Energy Board is a world-class regulatory body. Our government is convinced that the board has the appropriate tools to safely and effectively regulate any proposed oil and gas activity in Canada’s Arctic. Our government is determined to realize the energy potential of the North, for the benefit of all Canadians.

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