LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Council thanked for climate action - Nanaimo Bulletin

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Council thanked for climate action - Nanaimo News Bulletin

To the editor,

Re: Alberta oil and gas ‘war room’ lobbying Nanaimo regarding natural gas decision, Sept. 27.

Thank you to Nanaimo council members for their courage in standing up to the pro-fossil fuel lobby and sticking with a decision to pass the zero carbon step code effective 2024. It’s easy for governments to back down in the face of powerful lobbyists, and councillors’ strength and leadership in standing behind their convictions is greatly appreciated.

Obviously, there will be some problems resulting from the decision to take brave steps and people will find ways to solve them. There are far worse problems that will arise if we don’t find ways to reduce our carbon emissions immediately.

I believe the majority of the public supports council standing behind its decision to make this change as quickly as possible.

Carol Matthews, Nanaimo

READ ALSO: Fossil fuels industry targets B.C. city after move to block natural gas

To the editor,

My warmest congratulations to Nanaimo city council for passing a high standard with zero or very low emissions for new buildings in Nanaimo. If we all take action like this, together, we can substantially reduce our pollution and give our city cleaner air. We will also reduce the health hazards in our homes caused by natural gas and take steps to prevent ourselves from adding to the threat of climate change.

It is outrageous that an Alberta war room is trying to scare our population from doing the right thing. They have no business interfering with the city planning process and governance in communities in British Columbia.

Frances Deverell, Nanaimo

READ ALSO: Council vote means natural gas won’t be used to heat new homes in Nanaimo

To the editor,

Thank you to Nanaimo mayor and council for taking the important step to reduce emissions in the city, protecting residents and the environment.

Council’s decision to accelerate the zero carbon step code to mid-2024 will immediately have a positive effect on those new buildings and on the Nanaimo community and on B.C. Already, nine other communities have moved forward to reduce greenhouse gases to reach the province’s 2030 and 2050 targets.

The UN and scientists around the world have stated clearly that each person and jurisdiction must transition urgently away from fossil fuels. It is the only way to stop the crisis we face of fires, floods, droughts, and storms, and the huge financial and personal expense that arise from climate catastrophes.

With more brave and bold councils and city planners, B.C. can show leadership and vision, moving our world to a livable future for our children and grandchildren.

Lori Goldman, Penticton

The views and opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of Black Press Media or the Nanaimo News Bulletin.

Letters policy: Letters should be no longer than 250 words and will be edited. Preference is given to letters expressing an opinion on issues of local relevance or responding to items published in the News Bulletin. Include your address (it won’t be published) and a first name or two initials, and a surname. Unsigned letters will not be published. Letters sent to the News Bulletin may also be published in the Ladysmith Chronicle.

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