Honorary degree is forward thinking

As chair of the Edmonton Chapter of the Council of Canadians, I would like to thank the University of Alberta senate and its honorary degrees committee for representing the public good in its forward-thinking decision to confer an honorary doctorate of science to David Suzuki.

We also congratulate Dr. Suzuki for his many contributions to public science education and his long-term commitment to science-based decision-making. We also respect that the selection underlines the U of A’s commitment to intellectual freedom.

We acknowledge the right of Albertans to work in the oil and gas industry to make a living and support their families. We also recognize it is time to lay the groundwork for a just transition away from dependence on fossil fuels.

Climate change, its causes and dire effects are established scientific facts. It is our hope that the honorary degree is part of an ongoing bold strategy to foster innovation and the creative solutions Albertans will need to thrive in a fossil fuel-constrained future.

The fossil fuel industry has clearly made significant contributions to the Alberta and Canadian economies.

However, this industry will not be Alberta’s long-term salvation.

The Edmonton chapter supports the U of A as it begins to foster the significant cultural, scientific and educational changes that will need to take place as Alberta moves toward a sustainable future.

Rod Olstad, chair, Edmonton Chapter, Council of Canadians