Peace and Environment News — Insider, February–March 2012

by Mike Buckthought

Gateway to disaster

According to records filed with the U.S. government, subsidiaries of Enbridge Energy have reported more than 170 pipeline leaks and spills in the United States since 2002. The incidents have included a 2007 leak in Minnesota that killed two workers and led to $2.4 million in fines. The Calgary-based energy company has been in the news recently, thanks to its plans to build a pipeline from Alberta to the Pacific Ocean. If constructed, the Northern Gateway pipeline would bring bitumen from the tar sands to the port of Kitimat, BC. Supertankers would travel through narrow fjords. A spill would have catastrophic impacts, jeopardizing the ecosystems of the Pacific coast. (Ottawa Citizen, January 12, 2012; Sierra Club BC, www.sierraclub.bc.ca)

Public transit in Gatineau Park

The National Capital Commission (NCC) is developing a sustainable transportation plan for Gatineau Park. The NCC is encouraging members of the public to provide comments using an online questionnaire. At the moment, it can be difficult to visit Gatineau Park without a car. Are you concerned about the lack of public transit and the increased greenhouse gas emissions from cars? You can provide your comments before February 19. Visit the NCC online at www.canadascapital.gc.ca. You can also comment on the NCC’s Cultural Heritage Plan and Outdoor Recreation Plan. (National Capital Commission, January 13, 2012)

Nuclear-free Alberta

In December, Bruce Power announced that it has cancelled its plan to build nuclear reactors in northern Alberta. The company had proposed to construct a $10‑billion nuclear plant near Peace River, about 480 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. In 2009 the company abandoned its plan to construct a nuclear plant on the shores of Lac Cardinal. It proposed a second location, about 30 kilometres north of Peace River. However, there was strong opposition from residents who were concerned about the health impacts of radioactive contamination of drinking water supplies. (CBC News, December 12, 2011; Edmonton Journal, December 13, 2011)

BC’s Fish Lake threatened

BC’s Teztan Biny (Fish Lake) is threatened once again. After an extensive environmental assessment, the federal government rejected Taseko Mines Limited’s proposal to drain the lake. Unfortunately the company has come up with a new proposal, the so-called “New Prosperity” gold-copper project. Under the new plan, the lake would not be drained. However, it would be surrounded by an open pit mine and mountains of toxic tailings. First Nations were not consulted. A new review panel is considering the project. (MiningWatch Canada, November 29, 2011)

Going to court to support Kyoto

A Université de Montréal law professor is taking legal action against the Harper government in an attempt to overturn its decision to drop out of the Kyoto Protocol. Professor Daniel Turp says the government’s decision to renege on its international commitments is unconstitutional, and it breaks a federal law, the Kyoto Protocol Implementation Act. Constitutional lawyer Julius Grey will ask the Federal Court to determine whether or not Canada’s withdrawal from the Kyoto Protocol violates the country’s laws. The legal action is supported by L’équipe Kyoto, a student group at Université de Montréal. (Montreal Gazette, January 13, 2012; Association québécoise de lutte contre la pollution atmosphérique (AQLPA), January 13, 2012)

Low-carbon future

The European Union is looking into making deeper cuts in emissions of greenhouse gases. According to a new analysis, the EU’s existing target of a 25% reduction from 1990 levels by 2020 is easily achievable with existing policies. A number of member states, including Denmark, the UK and France, are pushing for deeper reductions of 30% by 2020. A draft low-carbon plan recommends reducing emissions by 60% by 2040. Making the transition to a low-carbon economy will cost about 1.5% of GDP annually over the next 40 years. Around the world, investments in renewable energy reached a new high of $260 billion US in 2011. Investments in solar energy have increased dramatically, reaching $137 billion US last year. (The Guardian, January 12–18, 2012; February 14, 2011)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News — Insider, Volume 27, Number 1, February–March 2012, page 7.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, November 2011–January 2012

by Mike Buckthought

Environmental Network Loses Funding

The Canadian Environmental Network (RCEN) was forced to lay off its staff, after the federal government abruptly cancelled its core funding. The national network includes over 640 environmental groups across the country, and has played a vital role in raising awareness about environmental issues over the past 34 years. If the network closes its doors, it would be a serious setback for environmental organizations across Canada. “The Network forms an invaluable and irreplaceable grid of communication among environmentally concerned Canadians and the Government of Canada,” said Larry McDermott, Aboriginal Representative and Director of the RCEN. (CBC News, October 14, 2011; RCEN, October 19, 2011)

Paying the Price

A new report by the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy (NRTEE) estimates the economic impacts of climate change in Canada. By 2075, the annual costs of climate change could reach $51–$221 billion, depending on economic growth and increases in greenhouse gas emissions. It is important to reduce emissions now, because “lower global emissions levels reduce the risks of extremely high costs of climate change.” Climate change will lead to warmer summers and smog, resulting in increased death rates in major cities. It will present a “growing, long-term economic burden for Canada” with average costs equivalent to 0.8% to 1% of GDP by 2050. (NRTEE, September 29, 2011)

EU Includes Tar Sands in Fuel Law

The European Commission has decided to include oil from the tar sands in a proposed ranking of fuels. The ranking of fuels will help industry choose the most climate-friendly options. Environmental groups have praised the decision. European Union Climate Commissioner Connie Hedegaard faced strong opposition from Canada’s oil industry. Oil from the tar sands will be rated at 107 grams of carbon per megajoule, much higher than conventional crude oil, which will be rated at 87.5 grams per megajoule. (Globe and Mail, October 4, 2011)

Emerald Ash Borer

The emerald ash borer infestation has spread across Ottawa, from Orléans to Kanata. The invasive wood-boring beetle attacks all species of ash trees. Since 2002, the beetle has killed millions of ash trees in Ontario and the United States. Ash trees make up about one quarter of Ottawa’s urban and rural forest cover. The emerald ash borer was discovered in Ottawa’s east end in July 2008. (CBC News, October 18, 2011; Environment Committee, October 18, 2011)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News Insider, Volume 26, Number 6, November 2011–January 2012, page 7.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, July–August 2011

by Mike Buckthought

Ban Asbestos

The Harper government has rejected advice from Health Canada experts who recommended that asbestos should be added to the Rotterdam Convention’s list of hazardous materials. The federal government has opposed international efforts to regulate the carcinogen. Because of this lobbying, asbestos is still not on the Rotterdam list — and there are devastating consequences for people who develop diseases following exposure to the material. “Canada is the only Western democracy to have consistently opposed international efforts to regulate the global trade in asbestos,” states the Canadian Medical Association Journal in an editorial. (CBC News, June 13, 2011)

Nuclear-Free Italy

Italians have overwhelmingly rejected nuclear energy in a recent referendum. About 95 percent of voters supported a ban on nuclear power in Italy. “We must probably say goodbye to the possibility of nuclear power stations and we must strongly commit ourselves to renewable energy,” said Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Meanwhile, Germany’s coalition government has decided to shut down all of the country’s nuclear plants by the year 2022. Seven of the country’s oldest nuclear reactors have already been shut down. (Reuters, June 13, 2011; CBC News, May 30, 2011)

Cuts to Peacekeeping

The Pearson Peacekeeping Centre will close its office in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia due to cuts in funding from the federal government. The training centre has supported peacekeeping efforts around the world by providing essential research and education. It has trained thousands of civilians, police and military personnel from Canada and other countries. The Harper government has informed the training centre that its $4 million annual core funding will be cut off by the spring of 2012. (Ottawa Citizen, June 10, 2011; Canadian Press, June 13, 2011)

Auto-Free Market

A small pedestrian zone has been created in the ByWard Market, many years after members of Auto Free Ottawa urged the city to encourage walking there. People have been flocking to the car-free intersection at William and York streets. The city is looking into expanding the pilot project. However, some business owners have expressed concerns about increased traffic congestion on neighbouring streets. People can contact Jasna Jennings, Executive Director of the ByWard Market Business Improvement Area (bia@byward-market.com) to express their support for a pedestrian zone in the ByWard Market. (Ottawa Citizen, June 1–8, 2011)

Costa Rica Protects Marine Environment

Costa Rica has established a large marine protected area around Cocos Island in the Pacific Ocean. The Seamounts Marine Management Area encompasses nearly one million hectares, and will offer protection for many endangered marine species including leatherback turtles and hammerhead sharks. The protected area was established on March 3 through an executive decree signed by Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla Miranda. Conservation International applauded the creation of a protected area around a seamount, saying it sets an important precedent. Seamounts support species that migrate over long distances, including sharks, turtles, tuna and whales. (Conservation International, March 3, 2011)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News — Insider, Volume 26, Number 4, July–August 2011, page 2.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, May–June 2011

by Mike Buckthought

Clayoquot Sound Threatened

The rainforests of Clayoquot Sound are once again under threat following a permit issued by the BC government for a logging road on Flores Island. Logging could start by the summer, if the province fails to protect the island’s temperate rainforests. Iisaak Forest Resources received the permit on April 1. In 1999, Iisaak signed an agreement with environmental groups, promising not to log in Clayoquot Sound’s intact rainforests. Now Iisaak is applying for another permit, which would allow it to build a dock at the start of a logging road. Friends of Clayoquot Sound is asking people to write to the BC government. (Friends of Clayoquot Sound, April 4, 2011 www.focs.ca)

Nuclear Phaseout

Opposition to nuclear power has been growing following the explosions and fires at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. On April 9, over 17,000 people joined rallies in Tokyo to voice their opposition to nuclear plants. On March 26, around 200,000 people protested against nuclear power in Germany. German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced the shutdown of seven nuclear plants at least until June. Meanwhile, the Ontario government plans to construct two new nuclear reactors at Darlington. The estimated cost is $33 billion, but the actual expense could be two or three times higher, with the usual cost over-runs. (Kyodo News Agency, April 10, 2011; Der Spiegel, March 17, 2011; BBC, March 26, 2011; Ottawa Citizen, March 18, 2011)

Fallout from Fukushima

One month after the start of Japan’s nuclear crisis, the country’s Nuclear Safety Commission released some information highlighting the severity of the disaster. The commission rated the accident’s severity as level 7 on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES), the same level as the Chernobyl disaster. According to its estimates, emissions have totalled 630,000 terabecquerels. Radioactive iodine-131 is contaminating fish and seawater, and levels of 88.5 becquerels per litre have been measured in the ocean 30 kilometres east of the nuclear plant. Trace amounts of radioactive materials have been detected in Ontario and other provinces. (Kyodo News Agency, April 12, 2011; New York Times, April 12, 2011; NHK, April 13, 2011; Globe and Mail, April 12, 2011)

Rights for Nature

Bolivia is passing a law to ensure that the natural world is given the same level of protection as humans. The Law of the Rights of Mother Earth establishes eleven rights for nature, including: the right to life and to exist; the right to clean water and air; and the right to be free from genetic modification. The new law will help communities take action against polluting industries and mining corporations. Bolivia is urging the United Nations to follow its example by taking steps to recognize the Earth as a living being with the same rights as humans. (The Guardian, April 10, 2011; Ottawa Citizen, April 12, 2011)

Arctic Ozone Hole

The atmosphere over the Arctic lost a record amount of ozone during the past winter. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reports that levels were down by 40 per cent. An ozone hole stretched from the Canadian Arctic to Russia. Ozone-depleting chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons are responsible. The Montreal Protocol phased out the use of chlorofluorocarbons, but it will take decades for the ozone layer to stabilize. With the depletion of the protective ozone layer, ultraviolet radiation increases in intensity. Exposure to ultraviolet light can lead to skin cancer or cataracts. (CBC News, April 5, 2011)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News — Insider, Volume 26, Number 3, May–June 2011, page 6.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, March–April 2011

by Mike Buckthought

Cycling Lanes for Centretown

On February 23, Ottawa City Council approved a pilot project to construct separated bike lanes in Centretown. The cycling lanes will run along Laurier Avenue from Elgin to Bronson. Some residents and business owners had voiced their concerns about reduced access to parking. However, many people had expressed their support. (24 Hours, February 24, 2011)

Solar Panels for City Buildings

On January 26, Ottawa City Council approved the Large Rooftop Solar Energy Program, a plan to install solar panels on the roofs of up to twenty municipal buildings. Energy Ottawa will lease space on the rooftops of buildings. The city will collect up to $5 million from lease agreements over twenty years. Electricity generated by the solar panels will be fed into the power grid, supplying enough power for 300 homes. Earlier in January, the city unveiled solar panels on the rooftops of City Hall and the Transit Services building at 875 Belfast Road. (City of Ottawa, January 11 and 26, 2011)

Canadian Cities Go Solar

Halifax, Kingston and Vancouver are investing in solar energy. On January 18, Kingston City Council awarded a contract to install solar panels on ten municipal buildings. Meanwhile in Nova Scotia, Halifax Regional Council voted to move forward with the Community Solar Project. This program will help 1000 homeowners finance the installation of solar panels to heat hot water. They will repay the costs through charges added to their tax bills. Vancouver has announced a similar retrofit program, allowing homeowners to pay for solar panels and energy-efficient appliances through their property taxes. (Halifax Regional Municipality, February 8, 2011; Vancouver Sun, December 8, 2010; Kingston Whig Standard, January 12, 2011; City of Kingston, January 18, 2011)

Shipping Nuclear Waste to Sweden

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has given Bruce Power permission to ship radioactive waste through the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence, past Canada’s most populous cities. Bruce Power plans to ship 16 radioactive steam generators to Sweden, where they will be recycled into consumer products. A total of 116 municipalities are opposed to the plan. During public consultations, people expressed concerns about the potential for an accident affecting the drinking water of millions of people. (Le Soleil, February 8, 2011; Ottawa Citizen, February 15, 2011; Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, February 4, 2011)

Canada Exports Repression

Canadian politicians and diplomats often highlight the importance of human rights. At the same time, Canadian corporations are exporting weapons, tear gas and armoured vehicles to repressive, undemocratic regimes. The Coalition to Oppose the Arms Trade (COAT) has tracked military exports to 16 countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Governments of these countries are often responsible for human rights abuses, making use of “security” products to entrench their rule. The federal government allowed $1.8 billion of military exports to these countries between 1990 and 2006. COAT has compiled a list of resources detailing how military exports are used as tools of oppression. (Coalition to Oppose the Arms Trade (COAT), February 17, 2011 http://coat.ncf.ca/mideast/mideast.htm)

People Power Saves UK Forests

Britain’s coalition government has backed down from plans to sell off 258,000 hectares of forests. Over half a million people signed petitions expressing their opposition. The British government was looking for ways to raise funds, and a forest sell-off was one such scheme. However, there was a public outcry. According to an opinion poll, 84% of people support protecting the forests as publicly owned lands. Britain’s environment secretary Caroline Spelman apologized for presenting the plan. “I am sorry, we got this one wrong, but we have listened to people’s concerns,” she said, acknowledging the widespread public opposition. (The Guardian, February 17, 2011)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News — Insider, Volume 26, Number 2, March–April 2011, page 7.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, January–February 2011

by Mike Buckthought

Loss of Species Threatens Human Health

A new study reveals a link between the loss of species and disease. The loss of biodiversity in ecosystems results in increases in the numbers of disease-causing organisms. “We knew of specific cases in which declines in biodiversity increase the incidence of disease. But we’ve learned that the pattern is much more general: biodiversity loss tends to increase pathogen transmission across a wide range of infectious disease systems,” said Felicia Keesing, an ecologist and lead author of the study. The animals, plants and bacteria that disappear are the ones that buffer against disease transmission. Remaining species are often the ones that transmit diseases such as West Nile, Lyme disease and hantavirus. In the case of Lyme disease, mice can thrive when forests are fragmented, increasing the numbers of ticks that carry the disease. Loss of biodiversity has a detrimental impact on human health. (Bard College, December 1, 2010 http://www.bard.edu/news/releases/pr/fstory.php?id=2034)

Denmark Fossil Fuel-Free by 2050

Canadian corporations pour billions of dollars into the fossil economy, mining the Alberta tar sands and clearing forests to construct pipelines to send oil and gas south of the border. Denmark has chosen a different path, with substantial investments in green energy and a national plan to make the transition to a carbon-free economy. According to the Danish climate commission, the country can go fossil fuel-free by 2050. With the rising cost of oil and gas, it will be much cheaper to use wind and biomass energy to meet the country’s power requirements. The commission recommends investing 0.5 per cent of Denmark’s gross domestic product (GDP) in renewable sources of power to make the transition. (The Guardian, September 29, 2010)

Canada Bombs on Leadership

The Canadian government has made deep reductions in its funding of programs to clear landmines. Canada slashed spending by 57 per cent, the biggest decrease of all donor countries. This contrasts with Canada’s past support for the 1997 Ottawa Convention to ban landmines. According to the Landmine Monitor 2010 report, the Ottawa Convention has prevented many injuries and deaths. In 2009, 3,956 new casualties from landmines and explosive remnants of war were recorded, a 28 per cent reduction from the previous year. Eighty-six countries have destroyed their stockpiles of antipersonnel mines. (Landmine Monitor 2010, November 24, 2010 http://www.the-monitor.org/lm/2010; Mines Action Canada, November 24–29, 2010 www.minesactioncanada.org)

Naked Scanners Pose Cancer Risk

The “war on terror” will have an unintended consequence: it will lead to increased rates of cancer in North America. Scientists are warning of the health impacts from the use of full-body “naked” security scanners at airports. “They say the risk is minimal, but statistically someone is going to get skin cancer from these X-rays,” said Dr. Michael Love, who runs an X-ray lab at John Hopkins University. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has purchased hundreds of airport scanners which create revealing images of passengers. Canada is following the American lead. The “naked” scanners have been criticized for health risks and privacy issues. (Agence France Presse, November 12, 2010)

Chemical in Receipts Linked to Cancer

Receipts from cash registers contain high levels of the carcinogen bisphenol A, according to a new study. U.S. non-profit organizations Safer Chemicals, Safer Families and the Washington Toxics Coalition tested receipts from stores and coffee shops. Half of the receipts contained high levels of bisphenol A, a chemical known to increase risks of cancer and obesity, and to affect the development of babies and children. Touching a receipt for ten seconds transferred up to 2.5 micrograms of bisphenol A to a person’s fingers, according to the report. Bisphenol A is used in plastic bottles, cans and other consumer products. The European Union is following Canada’s lead, taking action to end the use of the chemical in baby bottles. (Agence France Presse, December 8, 2010)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and human rights issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News Insider, Volume 26, Number 1, January–February 2011, page 7.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, July–August 2010

by Mike Buckthought

End of the Line for the Marlin Mine

Canadian gold mining company Goldcorp has been criticized for the health impacts of its Marlin mine in Guatemala. The Vancouver-based corporation has a new critic: the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), a human rights body of the Organization of American States (OAS).

The IACHR is calling on the government of Guatemala to suspend operations at the mine, and protect the health of indigenous communities in the region. A recent study by Physicians for Human Rights and University of Michigan scientists has found that people living near the mine have high levels of mercury, copper, arsenic, zinc and lead in their urine and blood. Goldcorp CEO Charles Jeannes dismissed the criticism at the company’s annual meeting, insisting it was “physically impossible” for the mine to contaminate surrounding communities. (MiningWatch Canada, May 24, 2010 www.miningwatch.ca)

Climate Bill Moves to Senate

On May 5, opposition parties joined together to pass the Climate Change Accountability Act (Bill C-311). The climate bill passed third reading in the House of Commons with a vote of 149 in favour to 136 against. Thanks to the united support of the New Democrats, Bloc Québécois and the Liberals, the bill continued on to the Senate. The private member’s bill was introduced by NDP MP Bruce Hyer (Thunder Bay-Superior North). If the bill is passed by the Senate and becomes law, it will ensure that Canada commits to science-based targets for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. The climate bill includes a target of 80 per cent reductions from 1990 levels by the year 2050, following the advice of the world’s climate scientists. (Parliament of Canada, May 5, 2010 http://www.parl.gc.ca/)

Some Stern Advice on Climate

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon criticized Canada’s climate policies when he visited Ottawa on May 12. “I urge Canada to comply with the targets set out by the Kyoto Protocol,” said Ban. “You can strengthen your mitigation targets for the future. And you can join other industrialized countries in contributing new funding, in keeping with your long-standing tradition of global solidarity.”

Canada signed the Kyoto Protocol, but the current government is not upholding the country’s commitments. Meanwhile, British economist Nicholas Stern provided his own stern words of advice. The Harper government insists that climate change should not be a high priority for the Group of 20. In remarks published by the Globe and Mail, Stern says it is important to discuss financial aid to help developing countries adapt to climate change. “You can’t really discuss the finance on the scale that we are talking about unless the G20 is involved, and involved this year.” (Montreal Gazette, May 12, 2010; Globe and Mail, May 13, 2010)

Pedestrian Zones

A Montréal borough is closing off one of its streets to cars. It is the first of many streets to be closed to car traffic. In place of cars, a one-block stretch of St. Dominique Street will be the home of a farmers’ market featuring local and organic produce every Thursday. Plateau Mayor Luc Ferrandez says the borough will transform 10–15 streets into pedestrian zones in 2010, reversing decades of auto-centric urban planning. Meanwhile in Ottawa, visitors to the ByWard Market have been pleased to find that part of William Street has become a pedestrian zone. A section of the street between Clarence and York is closed off to traffic — only two decades after members of Auto Free Ottawa proposed that the Market should be a pedestrian zone. Toronto is also creating some new pedestrian zones, with the transformation of three streets at the University of Toronto and Ryerson campuses starting in September. (Montreal Gazette, May 4, 2010; Toronto Star, May 18, 2010)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and social justice issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News — Insider, Volume 25, Number 4, July–August 2010, page 3.

Peace and Environment News, March–April 2010

by Mike Buckthought

Ban Asbestos

An open letter signed by 100 scientists from 28 countries calls on Québec Premier Jean Charest to ban the use and export of asbestos. Canada’s exports of asbestos are responsible for escalating rates of mesothelioma. The rare form of lung cancer is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. In Mexico, as many as 500 people die each year because of mesothelioma, according to the Mexican Institute of Social Security. The true toll from exposure to asbestos is believed to be much higher. Around 1,500 Mexicans die each year because of asbestos, according to occupational health expert Guadalupe Aguilar. Canada’s aggressive marketing of asbestos has devastating health impacts. About 95 per cent of asbestos mined in Québec is exported to developing countries, including India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Pakistan, Mexico, Thailand and Colombia. Meanwhile, the Canadian and Québec governments undermine international efforts to ban asbestos. (Globe and Mail, January 29–February 16, 2010)

Following Washington’s Plan

On January 30, Environment Minister Jim Prentice announced Canada’s new target for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. The government sent a notice to the United Nations, declaring that Canada will reduce its emissions by 17 per cent below 2005 levels by 2020. The latest target will actually increase emissions by 2.5 per cent from 1990 levels. Canada’s new goal is intended to match the target of 17 per cent specified in American legislation that has not been passed yet. Prentice indicated that he would like to align the federal government’s policies with the approach of the Obama administration. In order to ensure that Canada follows decisions made in Washington, the Canadian government declared its target the day after the American target was announced. (Globe and Mail, February 3, 2010)

Canada in 46th Place

While organizers of the Vancouver Olympics urged Canadian athletes to “own the podium,” Canada’s environmental practices have not earned any medals. Yale University’s 2010 Environmental Performance Index places Canada in 46th place, down considerably from 12th place in 2008. The index ranks 163 countries in all, considering a wide range of performance indicators. Canada’s environmental performance was ranked behind scores for Algeria, Mexico, Ireland and Romania. In first place: Iceland, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Sweden. Canada received low scores for its emissions of air pollutants, including greenhouse gases, ground-level ozone, nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxides. (Le Soleil, January 27, 2010; Yale University Environmental Performance Index, http://www.epi.yale.edu/Countries/Canada)

Banning Cluster Bombs

On February 16, Burkina Faso and Moldova ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions. This brings the total number of ratifications up to 30. With 30 ratifying states, the Convention becomes binding international law effective August 1, 2010. The Convention will put an end to the devastating impacts of cluster bombs, with a comprehensive ban on the use, production and transfer of the munitions. Signatory countries include states that led the Oslo Process to create the convention, as well as many states that have used or stockpiled cluster munitions. A total of 104 countries have signed the Convention since December 2008. Countries are already taking action. Spain destroyed its stockpiles last year, and other countries are following. (Cluster Munition Coalition, February 16, 2010, http://www.stopclustermunitions.org/news/?id=2040)

India Halts GM Eggplants

Indian environment minister Jairam Ramesh announced a six-month moratorium on the introduction of a genetically modified variety of eggplant. He said more research was needed before cultivation could be started. The moratorium was announced after strong pressure from the public and state governments. People expressed concerns about the potential health hazards from the genetically modified Bt Brinjal variety of eggplant, developed by a company that is partly owned by Monsanto. There are also concerns that cultivation of the genetically modified plant would harm the over 2,000 traditional varieties of eggplant currently grown in India. (Associated Press/The Guardian, February 9, 2010)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and social justice issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News, Volume 25, Number 2, March–April 2010, page 8.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, January–February 2010

by Mike Buckthought

Portland’s 40-Year Climate Action Plan

The city of Portland, Oregon is taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent below 1990 levels by the year 2050. On October 28, Portland’s City Council passed a 40-year Climate Action Plan, a joint effort by the city and Multnomah County. Portland Mayor Sam Adams says the plan will create green jobs and encourage the introduction of new services and products that can be marketed globally. The plan includes a list of 93 actions to take over the next three years. By 2030, all homes and buildings will have “zero net greenhouse gas emissions.” Energy efficiency will be used to reduce the energy use in existing buildings by 25 per cent. The plan will also ensure that 90 per cent of city residents can meet all of their non-work needs through walking or bicycling. (Portland Herald Tribune, October 28, 2009; City of Portland and Multnomah County Climate Action Plan, October 2009)

Doctors’ Diagnosis: Uranium Bad for Health

Twenty-four doctors from Sept-Îles, Québec have pledged to resign and leave the city if exploration for uranium continues near a lake that provides drinking water for their community. In an open letter addressed to Québec’s Minister of Health and Social Services, the doctors express concerns about the health impacts of a uranium mine proposed by Terra Ventures. They are asking for a moratorium on uranium mining across the province. A thousand citizens of Sept-Îles joined a protest to support calls for a moratorium. Nova Scotia and British Columbia have banned uranium mines, but the Québec government has so far refused to follow these examples. The Sept-Îles Hospital supports the doctors’ actions, while warning that the loss of so many doctors would be “catastrophic” for the community. (La Presse, December 4, 2009; Radio-Canada, December 7–14, 2009)

Spanish Wind Power

During a recent windy day, Spain’s wind turbines set another record, supplying 53 per cent of the country’s electricity needs. On November 8, Spain’s wind turbines were generating 11.5 gigawatts of power, equivalent to almost twice the combined output of Ontario’s Pickering and Darlington nuclear stations. In 2009, Spain generated about one quarter of its energy needs from renewable sources of power such as wind turbines and solar panels. The country’s wind power capacity is growing rapidly, thanks to government support. According to the Spanish Wind Energy Association, by 2020 Spain will generate 40 gigawatts from wind turbines — about six times the capacity of Ontario’s Pickering and Darlington nuclear plants. Spain’s wind turbines currently generate 80 per cent more electricity than the country’s nuclear plants. (The Guardian, November 9, 2009; Ontario Power Generation www.opg.com)

Sea Level Rise of Nine Metres

According to a new study published in Nature, global sea levels could rise by as much as 9 metres over the next few hundred years, even if global mean temperature increases are halted at two degrees above pre-industrial levels. A sea level rise of nine metres would result in the loss of most of the Netherlands, and many coastal cities such as New Orleans. Island states such as the Maldives would be completely submerged, and much of Bangladesh and Florida would also be lost. The prediction of a nine-metre rise is higher than previous estimates. The study takes into account the impacts of the melting of ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica. According to Princeton University researcher Robert Kopp, “the IPCC’s last numbers were underestimates because they didn’t include all the factors that can accelerate ice sheet melting.” (The Guardian, December 16, 2009)

European Union Goes Green

The European Union is introducing new regulations to ensure that nearly all buildings constructed after 2020 will generate most of their energy from renewable sources, or incorporate energy efficiency to reduce power needs. Existing buildings will incorporate green retrofits whenever possible, when they are renovated. The regulations will help the EU reach its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 per cent below 1990 levels. Another regulation will ensure that home appliances are clearly labelled with efficiency ratings, to encourage people to use energy-efficient washing machines, televisions and refrigerators. Advertisements for home appliances will have to include the energy-efficiency rating, ranging from “A” for the greenest appliances, to “G” for the least efficient. (Greenwire, November 18, 2009)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and social justice issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News Insider, Volume 25, Number 1, January–February 2010, page 6.

Peace and Environment News — Insider, November–December 2008

by Mike Buckthought

UK to Reduce GHG Emissions by 80%

The British government committed the UK to reducing emissions of greenhouse gases by 80 per cent from 1990 levels by the year 2050. The new target replaces an earlier commitment to reduce emissions by 60 per cent by the middle of the century. Ed Miliband, Britain’s energy and climate change secretary, emphasized that the recent economic turmoil would not stop plans to deal with the climate crisis. He promised to amend Britain’s energy bill to allow home-owners to generate wind and solar power, and sell the electricity at a guaranteed price. The “feed-in tariffs” will encourage small-scale local generators of electricity to plug into the electrical grid. (The Guardian, October 16, 2008)

Ottawa River Pollution

Recent tests have found 10 toxic chemicals in the Ottawa River. One of the toxins is perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), a chemical that causes problems such as birth defects and cancer. Another toxin is perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical associated with non-stick coatings on Teflon cookware. It is also found in coatings on paper packaging used for fast food such as pizza and popcorn. Other chemicals found in the river include: bisphenol A, acetaminophen, carbamazepine, lincomycin, progesterone, diclofenac, lasaloid A and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). The report comes at a time when many citizens are concerned about pollution. According to a recent survey, 49 per cent of Ottawa-Gatineau residents believe the Ottawa River is highly or quite polluted. (Ottawa Sun, October 20, 2008; CBC News, October 17, 2008)

Disappearing Sea Ice

Climate change has led to a dramatic warming in the Arctic, and the rapid melting of sea ice. On September 14, the Arctic sea ice cover reached its minimum extent for the year. It is the second-lowest area recorded, according to the National Snow and Ice Data Center. Over the month of September, the sea ice had an average area of 4.67 million square kilometres. That is 34 per cent below the average for the years 1979 to 2000. According to preliminary data, 2008 represents the year with the lowest volume of Arctic sea ice on record. With the loss of sea ice, climate change accelerates. Open water absorbs more sunlight, leading to more warming — and as the ice disappears, polar bears lose their habitat. (National Snow and Ice Data Center, October 2, 2008 http://nsidc.org/news/press/20081002_seaice_pressrelease.html)

Canada’s Costly War in Afghanistan

Canada’s war in Afghanistan is costing a lot more than expected. According to a recent report, the war will cost up to $18.1 billion by 2011. Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page explained that the war could cost significantly more than this most recent estimate. He said not all of the relevant government departments gave enough information. He criticized the lack of transparency: “When compared with international experience, Canada appears to lag behind the best practices of other jurisdictions in terms of the quality and frequency of war cost reporting to their respective legislatures.” The estimate is based on the assumption that 2,500 troops and support staff remain in Afghanistan. Costs could escalate, if the mission is expanded. (Canadian Press, October 9, 2008)

Exporting Cancer: Canada and Asbestos

The Canadian Medical Association Journal is criticizing the federal government for its interference with international efforts to control asbestos. United Nations-sponsored negotiations are set to start on October 27. During the talks in Rome, delegates will consider whether or not to list chrysotile asbestos as a dangerous substance under the Rotterdam Convention. Although Canadians do not use much asbestos any more, Canada exports a lot of the mineral to developing countries. The asbestos is mixed in with cement and other building materials, and causes deadly diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. According to the World Health Organization, the use of asbestos leads to 100,000 preventable deaths annually around the world. (Globe and Mail, October 20, 2008)

Mike Buckthought writes about environmental and social justice issues.

Published in the Peace and Environment News Insider, Volume 23, Number 6, November–December 2008, page 2.