The Environment in Canada Podcast

Join Stephen Thomas, Clean Energy Manager at the David Suzuki Foundation, as he discusses the strong sentiment among Canadians for prioritizing renewable energy over oil and gas. With two-thirds of the country supporting climate action, they explore the enormous job creation potential in renewables. Thomas highlights how renewable energy can alleviate living costs, improve health, and reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuels. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for tradespeople in the renewable sector and the importance of stable policies to guide this transition.

In this engaging discussion, Ken Summers, a passionate anti-fracking activist from Nova Scotia, joins Gretchen Fitzgerald, Executive Director of Sierra Club Canada Foundation, to unpack the alarming tactics of the provincial government. They delve into how recent measures resemble U.S. authoritarianism, including limiting media access and bypassing public consultation on fracking. They highlight a rally for democracy in Halifax, showcasing community resilience against these policies. Their conversation emphasizes the urgent need for transparency, renewable energy advocacy, and grassroots solidarity.

Discover how grassroots advocacy can drive environmental change! The podcast highlights the power of conversations in raising awareness about climate issues. It offers practical tips for engaging with others, even those skeptical about climate change. Learn the critical link between environmental challenges and community empowerment, especially in the context of upcoming elections. The discussion emphasizes the importance of transitioning to renewable energy while addressing the interconnectedness of economy, health, and environmental resilience.

The recent emissions cap report is critiqued for missing key benefits, much like ignoring safety advantages of seat belts. There are comparisons made to the outdated horse-drawn carriage industry, highlighting missed opportunities in job growth. The podcast emphasizes the need for Canada to pursue effective climate policies that champion innovation and safeguard health. With wealthy corporations being allowed to pollute, the conversation urges Canada to be different and maintain its stride in reducing corporate emissions.

We've covered in past episodes how we have reliable renewable options for energy we can build right now across Canada that generate far more employment and are better for national economic security and local economies than oil and gas investments. In this episode Jessica talks with Joe Bates of the Bad River Band about how oil and gas pipeline corporation Enbridge is actively trespassing on Indigenous land and the Band's fight to protect the Great Lakes from an oil spill. They also discuss a recent documentary on this issue and Joe's excitement for an upcoming trip to Canada to talk with Canadians about the topic.Learn more about this issue here: https://www.sierraclub.ca/bad-river-podcast/Be sure to send us your questions at info@sierraclub.ca and sign up for email updates from us here: https://www.sierraclub.ca/subscribe-for-updates/And don't forget to take action!Support the showFind out more and take action at sierraclub.ca/take-action/

Conor talks with Brahm Enslin, the president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Saskatoon Local. Brahm was the regional organizer for the CUPW’s Delivering Community Power campaign - which was organized by workers pushing for a greener postal service.We also discuss how postal workers are encountering more and more climate impacts while out doing their jobs and the crucial roles they play in communities that are not often appreciated (like checking in on the most vulnerable).In the Q&A we talk about why the environmental and workers' movements can learn from each other and should coordinate more together, plus we look at how the media handled the 'charitable angle' of the recent Canada Post strike.Sierra Club Canada stands in solidarity with postal workers and the CUPW.Be sure to send us more of your questions at info@sierraclub.ca and sign up for email updates from us here: https://www.sierraclub.ca/subscribe-for-updates/And don't forget to take action!Support the showFind out more and take action at sierraclub.ca/take-action/

Explore the tensions between U.S. influence and Canadian sovereignty, as they delve into the risks of potential annexation. Discover how corporate interests collide with national identity and the vital role of renewable energy in preserving independence. The discussion also highlights the flaws in corporate media narratives and the rise of independent journalism as a counter-force. Engaging Q&A illuminates the community's vital role in resisting external pressures and championing ecological aspirations for a sustainable future.

The podcast dives into the alarming potential of U.S. annexation of Canada, spurred by oil and gas companies. It highlights the clash between corporate interests and Canadian sovereignty, urging a rapid shift to renewable energy. Listeners learn about the importance of community advocacy and local job creation in fighting corporate influence. The discussion emphasizes sustainable energy solutions as vital not just for the environment, but for maintaining national identity and independence from foreign powers.

Gretchen Fitzgerald, National Programs Director at Sierra Club Canada, discusses key environmental initiatives and victories for 2024. She highlights grassroots mobilization against climate pollution, including dialogues for energy democracy and protections for the North Atlantic Right Whale. The conversation underscores the impact of systemic issues on climate action, the importance of community engagement, and innovative solutions like offshore wind energy. They also look ahead to upcoming projects, emphasizing the need for persistent advocacy and political collaboration.

Montana Burgess from Neighbors United, an advocate for community-led environmental action, shares insights on effective climate communication. She emphasizes the importance of finding shared values to engage others during holiday gatherings. The conversation highlights using storytelling and humor to counter climate misinformation, and personal anecdotes that can shift beliefs. Burgess also discusses building community support for ecosystem health, focusing on proactive dialogue as a means to inspire collective environmental action.