Sweeping Kyoto under the Rug

With this inaugural post I will point out the obvious: Canada has a dismal track record in regard to environmental policy. The Kyoto Accord is a farce; the target for developed nations was set at 6% below the 1990 baseline, but in Canada as of 2003, emissions were 23% OVER this target and continuing to rise. While it is tempting to lay the blame on Alberta for its oil, or Ontario for its industry, or truckers, or airplanes, or Stephen Harper himself, the responsibility is really an individual one; each and every one of us has a role to play in protecting the world around us, our air, water, and land.

The recent UN Climate Change Conference in Nairobi was an embarassing display of (environment minister) Rona Ambrose's pettiness, and a prime example of self-indulgent politicking. Whatever happened to the idea of Canadians being leaders - or even just challengers to our bullying American neighbours - on the world stage? Ironic even, as it is our own ice caps that are melting, our huge Northern regions that are experiencing the most measurable and direct effects of global warming. Ironic, as we are a diverse group of wealthy, tolerant and educated folk who have the resources and organizational structures available to make a difference, to stop this over-consumption and reduce environmental degradation.

It is incredibly unfair to expect developing nations to take the lead on renewable energy, waste management, and conservation. We who have benefitted from haphazard industrialization - and the wealth we borrowed from future generations - must take a leadership role in protecting our environment from further harm.

I don't always agree with Heather Mallick, but check out what she has to say about Ambrose's performance at the UN Climate Conference.