Climate Watch NL weighs in on strategic plan

Group makes submission to government hoping to aid in policy development

Climate Watch NL has added its two cents worth to the government’s efforts on climate change policy.

As a concerned citizens’ group, Climate Watch NL wants there to be a minimal carbon footprint in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador by 2050.

To attain these goals, the organization made a number of recommendations to the government in an effort to enhance the strategy’s effectiveness and implementation.

“This submission highlights numerous solutions that are parts of the puzzle of addressing climate change,” Dr. Ian Simpson, a steering committee member, stated in a news release Monday.

“We need to approach climate change as a serious concern for human health and related hazards, both now and in the future.”

Newfoundland and Labrador, like so many economies globally, is dependent on the fossil fuel industry, namely oil and gas. Climate Watch NL hopes the province will join in the worldwide shift to renewable energy sources.

The policies outline recommendations that would foster green concepts and diversify the provincial economy, create new jobs and opportunities, and help adapt to communityfocused renewable energy such as wind, tidal and solar.

In addition, the submission seeks the encouragement of electric cars, and logistical support for communities already facing climate change effects.

“There is a lot of growing concern about climate change in the province, with impacts already being experienced,” Chris Short, another steering committee member, stated in the release.

“It’s very important government approach this issue in a proactive way.”

Climate Watch NL is recommending a cultural approach to tackling climate change and building on existing sustainable practices.

The submission was developed in consultation with Climate Watch NL’S policy advisory committee, which brings together experts in environmental policy and science.

The organization hopes to continue to inform climate policy and encourages the public to become involved in discussions on climate change.