Scientists are now warning us that global warming will soon surpass 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels, the threshold world leaders agreed we would not breach to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis.
We also know those least responsible for this crisis are bearing the brunt of climate chaos. Millions of people in climate vulnerable communities and nations continue to grapple with worsening heat stress and supercharged storms. We are imperilling wildlife with ecosystem collapse.
To right this wrong, climate action must be at the speed and scale that science and justice require.
That starts with making those responsible for climate breakdown pay our fair share to fix the problem. Canada needs to stop funnelling billions of taxpayer dollars to fossil fuel companies and false solutions like carbon capture and storage, and instead make critical investments to protect people and the planet.
A crucial first step is investing in a just transition to clean energy that supports communities most impacted by the shift away from fossil fuels, and ensures millions of future-minded, sustainable green jobs for all that need them.
Heather Plaizier,
Mountain View County
