07 May From Platform to Policy? Where might environmental policy be heading?
From Platform to Policy? Where might environmental policy be heading?
The election is behind us and a new majority government is before us. There will undoubtedly be a time of listening and learning across the province: within government, within industry, within non-government organizations, among all Albertans.
What are some of the possible new directions for environmental policy? Recognizing that having an election platform translate into policy is fraught with challenges, the NDP platform spoke to the following environmental policy matters (paraphrased):
- loans for green retrofits
- phasing out coal-fired electricity and expanding renewables (and co-generation in the oil sands)
- reinvesting carbon capture and storage funds into public transit
- strengthening environmental oversight and regulation (with science, best practices and consultation being central)
- leading on climate change (including an energy efficiency strategy and a renewable energy strategy)
- banning gas drilling in urban areas
- protecting the Castle Wilderness Areas.
Some specific directions and some general; all likely having their own challenges. Priorities will arise, policy will evolve and the ELC looks forward to participating in the learning process and championing strong environmental laws so that all Albertans can enjoy clean air, clean water and a healthy environment.
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Carl Hunt
Posted at 13:15h, 07 MayGood summary of political environmental promises but I think you missed the most needed environmental policy – democratic reform and some type of proportional voting. Corporations seem to claim the same rights as a citizen, so shouldn’t they be limited to the same political donations? Perhaps the P.C.s & Wildrose parties will support a new voting system to encourage proportional representation for the public.
Jason Unger
Posted at 13:24h, 07 MayExcellent point Carl. My summary does not touch on issues of governance and the other aspects of the NDP platform that have direct and indirect implications for the environment (including big city charters as another example).