Hundreds of Winnipeggers packed Convocation Hall at the University of Winnipeg on Nov. 28, 2017 to discuss the provincial government’s recently released Climate and Green Plan discussion paper. The meeting was organized by seven local environmental organizations to enable citizens to respond effectively to the paper.
As the first speaker to address the gethering, Ian Mauro of the Prairie Climate Centre cited a study which concluded climate change could cost Manitobans between $21 and $43 billion annually if we don’t take steps to mitigate climate change and adapt. “Arguably, this is an understatement,” he said.
Curtis Hull, of Climate Change Connection sees opportunities in climate change. “If [mitigation is] done properly, we will also be reaping benefits in terms of jobs because there is a lot of work to be done.”
Gaile Whelan Enns, of Manitoba Wildlands, said the government’s paper needs work. “It’s not a plan. It’s a marketing piece, it’s a discussion paper, but . . . it’s here for us to work with and do things with and make things happen.”
According to Teresa Looy of the Green Action Centre, Manitoba needs a comprehensive food waste reduction plan, increased recycling levies and greater use of composting in agriculture.
Candi Bezte of Manitoba Eco-Network said “We have some major issues with regard to watershed management.” She said we need to ensure there is no further loss of wetlands, which she characterized as “the kidneys” of our water system.
Finally, Eric Reder of the Wilderness Committee, pointed to the need for action on protecting endangered species and wildlife habitats.
Manitobans who wish to respond to the discussion paper can download it here and respond online, here.
If you wish to contact any of the sponsors of the meeting, follow these links:
- Wilderness Committee – http://www.wildernesscommittee.org/ma…
- Manitoba Eco-Network – http://www.mbeconetwork.org
- Climate Change Connection – http://climatechangeconnection.org/
- Prairie Climate Centre – http://www.prairieclimatecentre.ca
- Manitoba Energy Justice Coalition – http://www.mbenergyjustice.org
- Green Action Centre – http://www.greenactioncentre.ca
- Manitoba Wildlands – http://ManitobaWildlands.org
