The past week has been very interesting on the environment front in Alberta. The government set aside $25 million for publicity to convince the world that Alberta oilsands development is environmentally responsible. It seems too many people are questioning the wisdom of uncontrolled growth and massive emissions in the tarsands. With hundreds of migratory birds killed this week in the tailings ponds (the largest man-made water contianment on the planet) – near Ft McMurray – this may be difficult to sell.

Personally, I think that there are better ways to spend 25 million in tax payers’ dollars! The province is still in dire need of affordable housing, our health care system is being pushed to the breaking point, and real action is needed with respect to the environment. However, instead of addressing these problems head-on, the Alberta Government is choosing to spend $25 million on publicity – to make Alberta appear to be an environmental steward.

Here’s what the Premier had to say when I pressed him on this issue in the Legislature:
Dr. Swann: Will this minister and this Premier stand up and eliminate this $ 25 million propaganda campaign, redirecting the money to real change in Alberta?
Mr. Stelmach: No, we’re not going to do that. In fact, we do have a matter to deal with to make sure that all – all – people, those that invest in Alberta, those people that want to make Alberta their home, get the correct information. I can tell you that I’m not going to rely on that group or Greenpeace or Sierra Club to spread the misinformation not only in this province and this country but around the world.

You can listen to and read the entire set of questions below. I’ve also included some relevant articles. What do you think $25 million should be spent on in Alberta?

Calgary Herald: $25M ad blitz to boost Alberta ‘brand’
Edmonton Sun: U.S. protesters take aim at Alberta oilsands
Calgary Herald: 500 birds trapped in oil : Ducks perish as Alberta defends oilsands image

Alberta Hansard – Official Legislature Transcripts, April 29, 2008: Questions on $25 Million Greenwashing Campaign

Yesterday marked the 39th anniversary of the celebration of Earth Day. A tremendous opportunity to think about our impact on the planet and contemplate the course of our actions. To mark the day in the Legislature, the entire Liberal Caucus asked pressing environment-related questions to the Government of Alberta. I also had the chance to make the following Private Member’s Statement (see below). To see the highlights from yesterday’s Earth Day Question Period visit my main page at www.davidswann.ca

With a mixture of foreboding and hope I greet my fellow MLAs on this, the 39th annual Earth Day celebration. Truly these are dangerous times as we witness climate chaos, ice cap melting, worsening food and water shortages around the world.
In 1939 we confronted a different global threat in the Second World War and rose to the occasion with all the human and material resources we could muster. Today we need to take the climate crisis with a similar resolve and courage, as we face a collective way of life that selfishly violates our own biosphere and future generations. This is our time, and it is not our time. We recollect our absolute dependence on the earth for everything. We confront unparalleled opportunities as well as our unhealthy addiction to growth and must acknowledge our collective need for healing. We need reminders of the consistent overreach of past civilizations and that we borrow this time from our children. First Nations planned for seven generations ahead. Chief Seattle said: this we know; the earth does not belong to us. Humanity belongs to the earth. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.

As in 1939 we see new storm clouds gathering. Climate chaos is the wake-up call of our century and the supreme market failure. We need to mobilize all possible resolve and resources across all parties. As one of the largest consumers per capita on the planet we must work together to address our debt to future generations with bold decisions based not on markets but stewardship. No, this is not our time; it belongs to our grandchildren and children.

In the Legislature yesterday I had the opportunity to question Environment Minister Rob Renner on an $85 million settlement recently given to the Western Irrigation District – the very same irrigation district who bailed out the Balzac Megamall and racetrack plan when they were unable to attain the water licenses they needed. Considering these are tax dollars, the lack of transparency is very disturbing. I’ve attached an article below with some of the details, and you can listen to the podcast of my questions from the Legislature.

Calgary Herald April 4, 2008: Water Deal Draws Flak

Yesterday, the government’s Throne Speech emphasized continued growing of the economy and, predictably, disappointing on the environment, especially the crucial issue of water shortage and water management. Climate change policy continues to focus on expensive technology (carbon capture and storage) with weak targets, reflecting a government still in denial about our major contribution to Canada’s carbon emissions.

On First Nations issues the Speech commented on ‘continuing consultations with First Nations” over resource extraction – recognized as a charade as a number of Bands have indicated, especially in the oilsands and Lubicon lands. (Friday is a rally in support of the Lubicon – visit the Events section of my webpage)

Small wonder that people feel disconnected from the political process and distrust the process!

Today is the Speech from the Throne at the Alberta Legislature, signaling a new session is beginning. This session will be different from any I’ve served so far, with a smaller Opposition trying to hold the government to account. After the disappointing results of the March 3rd election, there has been much talk around the province about what needs to be done to engage voters and convince them to get out and vote (the turnout was ridiculously low this election!). Listen to my podcast below of the Wildrose Forum on CBC Radio that I participated in this afternoon. Great ideas coming forth!