Thank you for visiting this web site. This project is a work of satire (you probably already figured that out), although the issue it explores - Canada's terrible record on climate change - isn't funny at all (at least, not to us).
We love this country. That's why we're so concerned that Canada appears to be losing its place in the world.
Canada's international reputation is taking a beating. At the United Nations, by world-renowned scientists, by international environmental organizations and countless commentators, Canada is being criticized from all quarters for its atrocious record on climate change. And we think that needs to change.
It would be nice to say that all this criticism is unfair, but the fact is we've earned it. Despite making a promise to the world to cut our greenhouse gas emissions, Canada's emissions are soaring. In fact, in the past couple decades, our emissions have gone up more than any other G8 country.
For as long as most of us can remember, Canada has enjoyed a reputation around the world for a record of strong environmental leadership. When people think of Canada, they think of clean air, fresh water and wild, open spaces. Sadly, this perception is changing. Today, we're the bad kid, and influential organizations, including the United Nations, aren't being shy in scolding us.
Many of us hoped and assumed that Canada's heritage of conservation and environmentalism would have translated into action on the real problem: our country's growing carbon footprint. So far, we've been wrong.
Today, with our emissions still on the rise, Canada is increasingly recognized as one of the worst climate offenders on the planet. It's pretty embarrassing, if you ask us.
The good news is that we can change this. In fact, many of us are already taking important personal steps (more walking and cycling, increasing the energy efficiency of our homes, eating more meat-free meals) that have an enormous positive impact.
There are other things, however, that we just can't do as individuals (think low-carbon tax incentives, oil-sands policy, green building codes and investment in public transit). This is the government's job. And it's our federal government, if it chooses to, that can have the most significant impact in guiding our country toward a future where we no longer look like an ignorant eco laggard on the world stage.
In short, when it comes to tackling climate change, meaningful federal government action is the big missing piece.
What can you do? Tell your member of parliament that you don't like seeing Canada's international reputation being eroded. Tell them you don't want to see Canada embarrassed once again when our federal officials join countries around the world at an important climate meeting in Copenhagen later this year. (If you're inclined, you can even send Prime Minister Stephen Harper a quick email right now at pm@pm.gc.ca).
You don't need to be a climate change expert to demand climate change action. In fact, try this: Think about the last time you recall an elected federal official speaking eloquently about the need to reduce Canada's carbon footprint. Can't remember? Well, then they're not talking about it often enough, and as citizens, we can ask for better. In fact, that's our job.
Don't underestimate what a single individual can do. Right now in Canada there's a big empty space where there should be a national dialogue about how to ensure our country's future is as proud as its past. Just by talking about climate change, you're helping to fill that space. Thank you.
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