LETTER: Residents call on mayor/councillor to up their environmental game
By Letters to the editor
Dear Mr. Tassone & Mr. Price,
As citizens of the Castlegar community, we wanted to communicate our concern about the delicate global warming situation. We think the city of Castlegar and its council could and should make a difference, and set an example for many Canadians in committing to the West Kootenay EcoSociety 100% Renewable Kootenays.
We left Montreal after the unbearable heatwave in summer 2018, a phenomenon which, with every passing year, is becoming more frequent and lasts longer on the island. Over the years, we also noticed that the Quebec winter temperatures and conditions have been shifting. Yes, the white Christmas and frozen St Lawrence River of our youth are long gone. The global warming had a real impact on our lives, and we wanted to escape it. We decided to move to the beautiful Castlegar community and the winter sports Eldorado that are the Kootenays.
As we were preparing for the big move, we were alarmed that BC was burning for another year. Yes, we heard that last summer in BC was another apocalyptic one. Furthermore, our Kootenay friends have shared with us their observations regarding climate change in the area. Indeed, Kootenay glaciers are melting at a startling rate, wildlife habitat is becoming inhospitable for a number of species, winter 2019 was unusually warm, and we cannot ignore the constant risk of wildfire during the warm season.
All around us, we can see and feel the impact of climate change on our health, activities and hobbies, as well as landscapes. Not so far ahead, we can predict the terrible effects on our economy and the future of our children. Castlegar needs to take a step forward an join the other cities of the Kootenays that have signed the West Kootenay EcoSociety 100% Renewable Kootenays. We hope that the council will make the right decision and lead the discussion and the next economy instead of being left behind.
Regards,
Francois-G. Castaignede & Andree-Anne Cromp
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