A recent webinar hosted by the interuniversity research centre CIRANO focused on urban green infrastructure, examining tools and methods for planning and assessing their impacts. Discussions highlighted the state of environmental initiatives in the current political landscape.
Once a prominent topic, green infrastructure saw significant attention a decade ago when various forums presented solutions such as rain gardens, bioswales, and urban forests. However, recent observations indicate a decline in public discourse surrounding climate change and the environment, overshadowed by issues like national sovereignty and economic pressures from U.S. tariffs and conflicts abroad.
New data from Angus Reid reveals a shift in public sentiment, with a majority of Canadians now supporting Enbridge’s Westcoast natural gas pipeline expansion. Additionally, 61 percent of Canadians believe economic growth should take precedence over environmental protection, a figure that is lowest in Quebec, where the number stands at 52 percent.
This changing public opinion has affected government responses, moving climate discussions lower on the priority list. Steven Guilbeault’s resignation last week, following his criticisms of the Liberal government’s expedited pipeline approvals, further reflects a growing sense of discouragement among environmental advocates.
As environment minister, Guilbeault implemented carbon pricing in a climate strategy but faced backlash as rising living costs linked the policy to public dissent. Following Mark Carney’s ascension to prime minister, carbon pricing became politically contentious, leading to multiple rollbacks in climate policy that prompted Guilbeault’s resignation and departure from federal politics.
Despite initial expectations for a climate-focused administration, the current political climate has shifted priorities. Factors such as economic uncertainty and pressures from Alberta contribute to this change, with Carney acknowledging the need to exploit resources despite climate concerns to maintain Canadian sovereignty.
The challenge of addressing climate-related issues remains. As Carney stated in 2015, risks associated with climate change will only grow if action is delayed. Nonetheless, grassroots efforts persist, emphasizing the importance of community and environmental care amidst shifting policies.
Former Montreal city councillor Justine McIntyre is a political commentator and strategic consultant.
Source: montrealgazette.com via Google News.
