In the resource development industry, many opportunities lie in the service and construction sectors. As an Indigenous woman, my journey in this field has been one of immense challenge but also profound growth and transformation. Today, I want to share a little bit of my story and shed light on how initiatives like Woodfibre LNG‘s Gender and Cultural Safety Management Plan are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in these sectors.
Statistics Reflecting Disparities
Before envisioning a robust and prosperous future for all, it’s essential to examine the complex tapestry of our workforce’s history and the glaring disparities in participation across different job titles. These discrepancies serve as poignant reminders of the enduring challenges confronted by women and Indigenous communities over decades. According to recent statistics from the 2022 report by Statistics Canada, the numbers paint a vivid picture of this discrepancy:
• In trades, transportation, and equipment operations, men dominate the field with a staggering 92.6 percent participation rate, leaving women with a mere 7.4 percent representation.
• Similarly, in natural resources, agriculture, and related production occupations, men occupy the majority share at 81.8 percent, while women account for only 18.2 percent of the workforce.
• Occupations in manufacturing and utilities follow suit, with men comprising 72.1 percent of the workforce, leaving women with a modest 27.9 percent representation.
• Even in management roles, where strides toward gender equality are often assumed, men hold the lion’s share at 64.6 percent, leaving women with a still significant, yet lesser, 35.4 percent representation.
• Moreover, First Nations people (5.8 percent) and Métis (7.6 percent) were less likely to be in managerial positions compared with non-Indigenous people (9.4 percent). However, Indigenous male managers (53.8 percent) were more likely than their non-Indigenous counterparts (39.2 percent) to be in middle management occupations in trades, transportation, production, and utilities.
• Additionally, First Nations people are about twice as likely to experience unfair treatment and discrimination at work as non-Indigenous people, further exacerbating the challenges they face in the workforce.
These statistics underscore the significant barriers faced by women and Indigenous peoples in accessing opportunities and attaining higher positions of authority within the industrial sector. It highlights the urgent need for dedicated initiatives to address these gaps by promoting gender, cultural, and Indigenous safety in the workforce.
The Journey Begins
It was against this backdrop that I began my career in trades in the Fort St. John region. Nestled in the heart of northeast BC, Fort St. John is a small community abundant in natural resources and rich in cultural heritage. It is a land of opportunity, where the pulse of the energy sector has beat strongly for generations, driving economic growth and development. Yet, beneath the veneer of prosperity lies a complex tapestry of challenges, particularly for marginalized groups like Indigenous peoples and women.
Navigating the intricacies of the energy sector as an Indigenous woman from Prophet River First Nation came with numerous challenges. From disproving stereotypes to confronting deeply entrenched cultural biases, the journey was tough. However, I viewed each hurdle as an opportunity to drive change. My determination only intensified: I was driven to be a part of the cultural shift within the industry, aiming to enable it to thrive through diverse participation. I envisioned a future where more women and Indigenous peoples could safely experience a sense of accomplishment and prosperity from opportunities without feeling diminished or marginalized.
This vision was deeply rooted in the lived realities of the Treaty 8 First Nation communities in this region. These communities faced disparate conditions and were accustomed to a substandard quality of life. Given that the dominant industry was the energy sector, many community members sought opportunities as entrepreneurs and tradespeople. However, the challenges they faced were immense, leaving them marginalized and competing against each other for a small fraction of the available opportunities.
These challenges underscored the urgent need for change. Access to these opportunities was not just about economic improvement. It meant families could live more comfortably, mothers in violent situations could have the means to leave and provide for their children independently, and young women and youth could have a safe environment to explore their curiosities and build their careers. It was about creating a future where women and Indigenous peoples could move beyond poverty and into prosperity and opportunity.
Pioneering Initiatives
Thankfully, awareness around Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) has been rising in Canada, paving the way for more women and minority groups to enter and thrive in the industrial sectors. In British Columbia, significant progress was made on December 16, 2019, when the Environmental Assessment Act, 2018 came into effect. This Act introduced substantial changes for industrial and resource projects, including new rules for Indigenous involvement and increased public participation.
This Act mandates that the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) in British Columbia support reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Key provisions include implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, recognizing Indigenous nations’ jurisdiction and decision-making rights, collaborating with Indigenous nations on project reviews, and acknowledging Indigenous rights as affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.
The EAO aims to engage Indigenous governments collaboratively in assessing proposed projects and evaluate potentially adverse environmental, economic, social, heritage, and health effects throughout the project lifecycle. The process includes opportunities for all interested parties to be involved, consultations with First Nations, technical studies to identify and examine potential significant adverse effects, strategies to prevent or reduce adverse effects, development of project requirements and conditions that a company must follow if a project is approved, and comprehensive reports summarizing input and findings.
While the Act doesn’t explicitly address gender safety, it emphasizes the importance of cultural safety and acknowledges the adverse effects of development on Indigenous nations, as highlighted in the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Ensuring a culturally safe environment within the workforce is crucial for Indigenous participation and collaboration. This shift not only helps address labour shortages but also brings broader perspectives and talents to the industry, enriching it in previously unimagined ways.
Introducing The Gender and Cultural Safety Management Plan
In response to the mandates set forth in the Environmental Assessment Act, 2018, and the concerns raised by local communities, particularly the Squamish Nation, regarding their major project, Woodfibre LNG embarked on a pioneering endeavor. They established a groundbreaking Gender Safety Advisory Committee, a first-of-its-kind group, to oversee and contribute to their unprecedented Gender and Cultural Safety Management Plan. As part of Woodfibre LNG’s comprehensive approach to tackle the obstacles encountered by women and Indigenous communities in industrial environments, this plan stands as a pivotal initiative. Having been privileged to serve on this committee, I leveraged my firsthand experiences from working on major projects in the field. This allowed me to channel my determination towards reshaping a predominantly masculine culture and contribute a distinct perspective.
This plan has been specifically crafted to cultivate a workplace that is both safer and more inclusive. It encompasses a range of comprehensive strategies aimed at preventing gender and cultural-based violence, ensuring that all employees are aware of the importance of respectful behavior and equipped to identify and address inappropriate conduct.
Key components of the plan include establishing a clear worker code of conduct, developing anti-bullying and harassment policies, and providing behavior standards and training. Additionally, the plan offers mental health and addiction awareness programs and violence and harassment prevention training. These measures are designed to ensure that all workers are educated on the importance of respectful behavior and equipped to recognize and report inappropriate conduct, directly addressing the cultural and gender-based challenges historically faced by women and Indigenous peoples in industrial sectors.
In addition to preventative measures, effective response mechanisms are crucial. Woodfibre LNG has set up confidential reporting systems, comprehensive support services, and enhanced support for women and girls. They’ve implemented worker feedback programs and practice adaptive management based on feedback and effectiveness. These initiatives create a safer and more inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and protected, making it easier for women and Indigenous peoples to participate and thrive.
One of the standout features of their approach is the Floatel. This investment is a testament to their commitment to exceeding industry standards and fostering responsible relationships. The Floatel has been a crucial component in addressing local and First Nation gender and cultural safety concerns, providing a safe and supportive space for workers. By implementing such comprehensive measures, Woodfibre LNG not only addresses the immediate safety and inclusion needs of its workforce but also sets a precedent for other projects to follow, thereby paving the way for broader participation and diversity in industrial sectors.
The Importance of Gender and Cultural Safety
Participating in the development of the Gender and Cultural Safety Management Plan has been an honor. Ensuring gender and cultural safety is not just about creating a better work environment; it is about increasing opportunities for underprivileged communities and unlocking the full potential of our workforce. By fostering diverse, inclusive, and innovative industries, we can drive growth and development in ways previously unimagined. When women and minority groups are given the space to explore their interests and capacities, the entire industry benefits. Diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and approaches, enhancing productivity and creativity. Moreover, a diverse and inclusive workforce is better equipped to address the complex challenges facing the industry today.
This plan is part of Woodfibre LNG’s broader effort to address the challenges faced by women and Indigenous peoples in industrial settings. Serving on the committee allowed me to draw from my firsthand experiences working on major projects in the field. By harnessing my determination to help shift a male-dominated culture, I was able to offer a unique perspective to the development of this plan. The comprehensive strategies to prevent gender and cultural-based violence ensure that all workers understand the significance of respectful behavior and possess the tools to recognize and report inappropriate conduct.
Looking Forward
This shift in major project culture signifies a profound transformation in resource development, evolving from a consumer-driven approach to one rooted in social responsibility. This cultural change not only fosters growth and empowerment for everyone involved but also promotes a more inclusive and respectful work environment. With increased awareness, policies, and enforceable action around gender and cultural safety, women and Indigenous people will feel secure in their workplaces, allowing them to pursue careers and aspire to leadership roles with confidence. This sense of security and opportunity will enable them to serve as role models for their children, exemplifying what personal and professional success can look like. As these positive impacts ripple through communities, they can lead to progressive and lasting change, creating a legacy of empowerment and inclusion for future generations.
The journey of being a woman in trades has been one of profound growth and empowerment. Today, with a broader platform, I am dedicated to fostering environments where women and Indigenous people can explore their talents and ambitions safely. As well as supporting communities like the District of Squamish that are new to major project development. The possibilities are just beginning, and I am grateful for every step of this journey. The path ahead is clear: to continue breaking down barriers, supporting each other, and creating safe, inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.
Wuujo’aasanaláá
Published May 1, 2024 – Joy SpearChief-Morris (Toronto Star)
OTTAWA — The federal government has signed a five-year funding agreement worth more than $187 million to help more First Nations assume governance of reserve lands and their natural resources.
The memorandum of understanding signed Wednesday by Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu and Chief Robert Louie, chair of the Lands Advisory Board and Austin Bear, chair of the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre, will provide additional funding for First Nations land management across the country.
The Lands Advisory Board and First Nations Land Management Resource Centre work together to support First Nations communities that want to take control of their reserve lands by creating their own community land codes.
Wednesday’s agreement extends the organizations’ funding for five years as they assist First Nations seeking self-governance outside of the Indian Act’s restrictions on land.
“The operational developmental funding directed here and over these five years will greatly assist our peoples, our First Nations communities across Canada to exercise land governance and protection of their reserve lands,” said Louie, who is chief of Westbank First Nation in British Columbia, at a news conference in Ottawa on Wednesday.
“First Nations have proven very clearly that good things can happen when we make our own decisions for the benefit of our members, our neighbours — the whole country benefits.”
Hajdu said First Nations can improve the health and livelihood of their communities by re-establishing control over reserve lands, and increase their ability to attract investments to help close the existing infrastructure gap.
“We’re talking about regaining control over land that was not just dispossessed, but often, controlled deeply by an Indian Act and a Canadian colonial government,” she said.
“I’m very excited about this piece of work that I believe helps the government of Canada to shed colonial habits and leave the Indian Act behind and avoid a one-size-fits-all solution.”
In 1996, Canada signed the Framework Agreement for First Nations Land Management with 13 First Nations to recognize self-government rights over their reserve lands, environments and natural resources.
The framework was implemented through the First Nations Land Management Act in 1999. It allowed those First Nations to opt-out of 44 sections of the Indian Act that restrict land use and prohibit land ownership by First Nations by developing their own community land codes.
In 2022, the First Nations Land Management Act was replaced by the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management Act, which removed inconsistencies between the original act and the framework agreement.
There are currently more than 211 First Nations as signatories. The 118 land codes they have in place account for more than 1.2 million acres of reserve lands that are now in the control of First Nations governments.
“We cannot be wards of the state. We cannot be dependent upon decision-making that rests with others. We have to take charge,” Louie said.
Wednesday’s agreement will provide $187 million in funding over five years, and more than $34 million committed in last year’s federal budget, to the Land Advisory Board and First Nations Land Management Resource Centre.
The funding is expected to support as many as 50 more First Nations becoming signatories to the framework agreement in the next five years, and will also provide 21 per cent more funding for First Nations that already have land codes.
In every corner of the country, Canadians are engaging more with climate action. In 2023, one in 10 passenger cars sold was an electric vehicle (EV), and a fifth of those sales required no government subsidy. We bought more heat pumps, too, than in all previous years put together, as sales of these emissions-free devices overtook natural gas furnace sales for the first time.
Read the full report here.
In the intricate dance of natural resource governance, the success of co-management hinges not only on external partnerships but also on the strength of governance structures within Indigenous communities themselves. Poor governance within these communities can be detrimental, not only to the realization of co-management initiatives but also to the opportunities and well-being of their citizens. In fact, it often nurtures poverty and stagnation, undermining the very foundations of community prosperity.
At the heart of this issue lies the stark reality that ineffective governance mechanisms within Indigenous communities can breed controversy, stall development, and perpetuate cycles of disadvantage. When governance structures are complex, opaque, or plagued by internal strife, decision-making processes become convoluted, hindering progress and impeding the ability of communities to seize opportunities for growth and empowerment.
The consequences of poor governance are acutely felt by Indigenous citizens, who bear the brunt of the repercussions. Without clear and effective leadership, resources may be mismanaged or exploited, leading to environmental degradation and loss of cultural heritage. Economic opportunities may be squandered, exacerbating poverty and perpetuating cycles of dependency.
Graham White’s insights into Indigenous governance underscore the importance of simplicity and effectiveness in shaping governance structures. Communal property arrangements and consensus-based decision-making are foundational principles that have sustained Indigenous communities for generations. However, the erosion of these traditional systems due to historical injustices and external pressures has left many communities grappling with governance challenges that hinder their ability to thrive.
The nexus between poor governance and poverty within Indigenous communities cannot be overstated. When decision-making processes are mired in bureaucracy or undermined by internal divisions, opportunities for economic development and self-sufficiency are stifled. This perpetuates a cycle of marginalization and disempowerment, leaving Indigenous citizens trapped in a state of perpetual vulnerability.
Empowering Indigenous communities to develop simple, transparent, and accountable governance structures is therefore essential not only for the success of co-management but also for the prosperity and well-being of their citizens. This empowerment requires a concerted effort to address systemic barriers to governance reform, including historical injustices, colonial legacies, and socioeconomic disparities.
Meaningful engagement with Indigenous knowledge holders and elders is crucial in this endeavour, as their wisdom and insights can guide governance processes rooted in cultural values and traditions. By prioritizing governance reform within Indigenous communities, stakeholders can lay the foundation for equitable and sustainable resource management that nurtures prosperity and fosters resilience.
As we navigate the complexities of co-management and natural resource governance, let us recognize the pivotal role of effective Indigenous governance in shaping the future of communities and safeguarding the well-being of generations to come. By investing in governance reform, we not only honour Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination but also unlock the transformative potential of co-management as a pathway to collective prosperity and empowerment.
In the intricate web of natural resource management, there lies a critical intersection where the interests of governments, Indigenous communities, and industries converge. This convergence, often fraught with challenges and conflicts, has prompted the exploration of innovative approaches such as co-management. Co-management represents a departure from traditional top-down governance models, instead advocating for shared decision-making and responsibility among diverse stakeholders.
The landscape of co-management is shaped by a complex tapestry of legal frameworks, historical injustices, and ecological imperatives. One landmark case that epitomizes this complexity is the Blueberry River court ruling, also known as Yahey v. British Columbia. In this case, the court recognized the cumulative impacts of resource development on the traditional territory of the Blueberry River First Nations and underscored the need for a more holistic approach to land use planning. The ruling highlighted the systemic failure to consider the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the disproportionate burden borne by Indigenous communities.
At the heart of the co-management paradigm lies a fundamental shift in perspective—one that challenges the entrenched notions of property and authority. Graham White, in his seminal work “Indigenous Empowerment Through Co-Management,” juxtaposes the state system’s common property concept with Indigenous communal property arrangements. While the former relies on hierarchical structures and centralized decision-making, the latter emphasizes consensus-based management rooted in traditional knowledge and community stewardship.
The contrast between these systems illuminates the divergent approaches to resource governance. In the state system, management objectives are often narrowly defined, focusing on maximizing production and minimizing costs. This reductionist approach compartmentalizes the environment into discrete units, divorcing resource management from the broader ecological context. In stark contrast, the Indigenous system views the environment as a holistic entity, intrinsically linked to cultural values and cosmology. Knowledge is not abstracted but embodied in the lived experiences of harvesting and shared intergenerationally through oral traditions.
Co-management represents a synthesis of these contrasting paradigms—a bridge between the scientific rigour of the state system and the cultural wisdom of Indigenous communities. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, co-management endeavours to reconcile diverse perspectives and prioritize sustainability over short-term gains. It recognizes that effective stewardship requires an intimate understanding of local ecosystems and respect for traditional land tenure systems.
However, the realization of co-management’s potential hinges on overcoming entrenched power dynamics and fostering genuine partnerships. It demands a commitment to equitable decision-making processes, meaningful engagement with Indigenous knowledge holders, and a willingness to cede control in favour of shared governance. Moreover, it necessitates a reevaluation of development priorities, shifting away from extractive practices towards regenerative approaches that safeguard the integrity of ecosystems.
In conclusion, co-management offers a promising pathway towards equitable and sustainable natural resource governance. By embracing the complementary strengths of diverse stakeholders and honouring Indigenous rights and knowledge systems, co-management holds the potential to transcend historical injustices and forge a more harmonious relationship with the land. As we navigate the complex challenges of the Anthropocene, co-management serves as a beacon of hope—a testament to our capacity to chart a course towards a more just and resilient future.
As a proud Indigenous woman from the Prophet River First Nation, my life’s journey has been one of overcoming obstacles, forging opportunities, and embracing the power of education against the odds. Growing up with meager means, in a family where educational opportunities were scarce and often overlooked, I learned early on the value of self-determination and resilience.
My path diverged from the conventional trajectory expected of Indigenous women in my community. While education wasn’t always promoted or accessible, I refused to let circumstances define my potential. Instead, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, seeking out opportunities for growth and learning wherever they could be found.
In 2003, I took a leap of faith and ventured into entrepreneurship in the energy sector, despite the daunting challenges that lay ahead. As an Indigenous woman navigating this male-dominated industry, every milestone achieved was a testament to my determination and grit. Yet, with each hurdle, my resolve only grew stronger, fueled by a desire to defy expectations and carve out a space for not only myself but every Indigenous person in the business world.
Amidst my entrepreneurial aspirations, education became a guiding force, leading me on a transformative journey that culminated in the attainment of my MBA from Simon Fraser University Beedie School of Business. While simultaneously raising three children, this pursuit was no easy feat. However, fueled by determination, I was resolute in instilling in them the values of resilience and perseverance that had guided me on my own path.
Education evolved beyond a mere priority; it became a cornerstone of our family ethos. I sought to model the importance of continuous learning and growth in the pursuit of our goals and dreams. These achievements held a significance beyond personal milestones—they symbolized the perseverance and infinite potential inherent within each of us, regardless of circumstance.
Throughout the most recent years, I delved deeply into the complex landscape of economic development and collaboration, where I have felt inspired to help transform the stark reality of the disparities facing Indigenous communities. Despite the growing recognition of Indigenous rights and sovereignty, systemic barriers continued to hinder access to opportunities for economic advancement and meaningful collaboration.
In this environment, and because of the lawsuit speaking to the violations against Treaty and Aboriginal Rights, the Implementation Agreement emerged as a beacon of hope—a visionary framework designed to address historical injustices and empower Indigenous communities to chart their own destinies. By prioritizing collaboration and community-led decision-making, the Agreement signalled a paradigm shift in how Indigenous peoples interact with government and industry.
For too long, Indigenous voices had been marginalized in discussions surrounding resource development and environmental protection. The Implementation Agreement seeks to redress this imbalance by establishing mechanisms for meaningful engagement and partnership between Indigenous communities, industry stakeholders, and government agencies.
At its core, the Agreement represents a commitment to reconciliation and mutual respect—a recognition of the inherent rights and responsibilities of Indigenous peoples to steward their lands and resources. By fostering a culture of cooperation and shared decision-making, it aimed to ensure that economic development initiatives are aligned with Indigenous values and priorities, leading to more equitable outcomes for all parties involved.
As I immersed myself in the intricacies of the Implementation Agreement, I was inspired by its potential to catalyze positive change and foster sustainable development in Indigenous communities. By empowering Indigenous peoples to play a central role in shaping the future of their lands and resources, the Agreement represented a powerful tool for advancing self-determination and economic prosperity.
Through my studies and subsequent advocacy work, I became deeply committed to supporting the implementation of the Agreement and ensuring that its promise of collaboration and empowerment would be realized in practice. By leveraging my expertise and connections, I seek to amplify Indigenous voices and facilitate constructive dialogue between diverse stakeholders, laying the groundwork for transformative change. In doing so, I hoped to honor the spirit of partnership and reconciliation embodied in the Implementation Agreement and contribute to a more just and inclusive society for future generations.
Today, as I reflect on my journey from humble beginnings to where I stand now, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and purpose. My experiences as an Indigenous woman navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, community development, and education have shaped me into the person I am today—a fierce advocate for self-determination, resilience, and empowerment.
As I continue to pave paths of resilience and forge new opportunities for myself and others, I am reminded of the words of my ancestors: “k’edze schâchè skunachál – Walk with a strong spirit.” In honouring the legacy of those who came before us and charting a course for future generations, we affirm our interconnectedness and our collective responsibility to create a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Mahsi cho Shishalh,
Toni
Nairobi, 1 March 2024 – The sixth UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) concluded today in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, with Member States delivering 15 resolutions aiming to boost multilateral efforts to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss and pollution.
More than 5,600 people – representing 190 countries – participated in the week-long Assembly held at the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, focused on effective, inclusive, and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
The UNEA-6 resolutions advance the work of Member States on management of metals, mineral resources, chemicals and waste, on environmental assistance and recovery in areas impacted by armed conflict, on integrated water resource management in the domestic sector, agriculture and industry to tackle water stress, on sustainable lifestyles, on rehabilitation of degraded lands and waters, and more.
The 2024 Assembly also held its first Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Day, dedicated to the international agreements addressing the most pressing environmental issues of global or regional concern, which are critical instruments of international environmental governance and international environmental law. UNEA-6 also welcomed youth to host their own environmental summit, which called for greater inter-generational equity.
A Ministerial Declaration on the closing day affirmed Member States’ commitment to slow climate change, restore and protect biodiversity, create a pollution-free world and confront issues of desertification, land and soil degradation, drought and deforestation by taking effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions.
“I am proud to say this was a successful Assembly, where we advanced on our core mandate: the legitimate human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, everywhere,” said Leila Benali, UNEA-6 President and the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development of Morocco. “We have agreed on 15 resolutions, two decisions and a ministerial declaration.”
“As governments, we need to push for more and reinvented partnerships with key stakeholders to implement these mandates. We need to continue to partner with civil society, continue to guide and empower our creative youth, and also with the private sector and philanthropies,” she added.
Inger Andersen, UNEP’s Executive Director, said: “Madam President has gavelled 15 resolutions and two decisions, which cover important aspects of the triple planetary crisis. You asked for advances in securing the metals and minerals needed for the transition to net-zero. You called for the world to do better on protecting the environment during and after conflicts. You delivered resolutions that will help UNEP and Member States do more on chemicals and waste, and sand and dust storms”.
“The President has gavelled resolutions that address desertification, land restoration and more. We also have a ministerial declaration that affirms the international community’s strong intent to slow climate change, restore nature and land, and create a pollution-free world,” she said.
“UNEP will now take forward the responsibilities you have entrusted to us in these new resolutions. In addition to keeping the environment under review. In addition to fulfilling our obligation to serve as an authoritative advocate for action across the triple planetary crisis,” Andersen added.
“The world needs action. The world needs speed. The world needs real, lasting change. UNEA-6 has delivered an extra boost to help us deliver this change and to ensure every person on this planet enjoys the right to a safe and healthy environment,” she said.
UNEA-6 also elected a new President to preside over UNEA-7 – Abdullah Bin Ali Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority of Oman.
“In our quest to confront the monumental environmental challenges of our time—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—there is but one path forward: teamwork. We share one Earth, bask under the same sun, and we must recognize that there is no backup plan. There’s no other planet waiting for us to escape to. Hence, it’s imperative that we unite our efforts with urgency and determination to safeguard our precious planet and protect its natural splendor. Together, let’s embark on this crucial journey to secure a sustainable future for generations to come,” said Bin Ali Amri, who closed his speech with an appeal for peace on and towards earth.
Data from the 2024 Global Resource Outlook, which was launched at UNEA, warned that without urgent and concerted action to reduce global consumption and production, extraction of natural resources could rise by 60 per cent from 2020 levels, driving increasing climate damage and risks to biodiversity and human health. The Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 showed that without a seismic shift away from ‘take-make-dispose’ societies towards circular economy and zero-waste approaches, the world’s waste pile could grow by two-thirds by 2050, and its cost to health, economies and the environment could double. A UNEP report on Used Heavy Duty Vehicles and the Environment, launched during a Climate and Clean Air Conference held in Nairobi ahead of UNEA, sounded the alarm on the rise of emissions from these heavy polluters, and their negative climate and health impacts.
Member states also agreed to hold the next UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in 8-12 December, 2025.
Streamed live on April 26, 2024.
Building public support, incorporating local perspectives, inviting innovative ideas from diverse stakeholders and fostering education and public awareness are key pillars to help create clean energy transition plans that are inclusive, locally specific and effective.
This session aims to explore social dialogue and citizen engagement mechanisms and strategies to involve all parts of society to build public support for clean energy transitions.
The discussion will be followed by closing remarks.
A document imbued with incrementalism offered at least one big energy policy advance with the long-awaited Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program
The federal government’s new approach to communicating the details of its 2024 federal budget — telling us about it in advance – has become the attention grabber that it was intended to be.
In a staged media rollout in recent weeks, the government unveiled new plans to “solve” the housing crisis, help renters, assist families struggling with soaring food bills and address mental health, as well as finally releasing an updated defence policy that comes with billions of new dollars in spending.
None of those announcements addressed the big question we are asking at the Energy Future Forum (EFF): would Budget 2024 provide the clarity and certainty needed to advance the ongoing and necessary march to a net zero future by 2050?
As EFF has said many times, there is a need for speed – we call it the “hurry-up offense” — if we are going to reach net zero. Canada requires a breathtaking buildout of its clean electricity grid, expanded development of wind and solar farms, carbon capture projects, carbon pipelines, small modular or large nuclear reactors, and storage capacity from utility-scale batteries to pumped hydro, among other things.
The government teased some of its plans in this area in previous budgets and fiscal updates but had yet to fully flesh them out, depriving investors and project developers of the certainty they need to move forward.
One of the most highly anticipated initiatives was previewed in last year’s federal budget when the government announced its intention to finally make good on a national Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program.
The government delivered in Budget 2024 (p. 286), announcing $5 billion in loan guarantees to unlock access to capital for Indigenous communities.
Chief Sharleen Gale, chair of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition and JP Gladu, principal of the Mokwateh Consultancy, were among the many Indigenous voices callingfor the measure: “An openness to Indigenous project ownership here is fast becoming a major international competitive advantage for Canada, as illustrated by a flood of deals happening across the country in the natural resource sectors.”
Jaimie Lickers at CIBC wrote about the impediments that needed to be overcome and expanded upon that theme from the stage of the Public Policy Forum’s annual Growth Summit in Toronto last week.
It has been difficult for Indigenous entities to access capital needed to play a big role in the economy, most notably because of “the prohibition under the Indian Act from leveraging ‘on-reserve’ lands and assets as security for debt,” Lickers notes. “This prevents First Nation governments and individuals from leveraging their lands as security for loans, limiting their ability to start businesses, invest in projects, and even secure traditional mortgages for their homes.”
Lickers, Gale and Gladu also advocated extending loan guarantees to oil and gas projects. Budget 2024 agreed, saying the program would be “sector-agnostic” and would prioritize “economic reconciliation and self-determination.”
The next hurdle will, of course, mean getting the money out the door for this reconciliation opportunity sooner rather than later – always a challenge in Canada.
In advance of Budget 2024, Electricity Canada, one of hundreds of groups to provide submissions to the Finance Department, exhorted the government to do more to streamline and strengthen federal regulatory capacity to “Build Things Faster.”
The group relied on the PPF Project of the Century report to help them make the case for building out the electricity grid as soon as possible.
“Canada has made aggressive commitments to achieve a net zero electricity grid by 2035 and an entirely net zero economy by 2050. To meet this monumental challenge, the Public Policy Forum estimates that we must grow our electricity supply capacity by 2.2 to 3.4 times today’s volume to meet demand by 2050,” Electricity Canada said in its pre-budget submission, quoting from the PPF report.
(Curiously, Budget 2024 low-balled Canada’s future electricity grid needs, calling for an increase in capacity by 1.7 to 2.2 times the current level without changing the doubled electricity demand projection.)
Budget 2024 acknowledged that Canada needs to do more to “get major projects” doneand announced a new Federal Permitting Coordinator to be housed in the Privy Council Office, calling for a five-year target to complete federal impact assessments and setting a three-year target for nuclear project reviews. This target-setting approach is strongly aligned with the first recommendation of EFF’s latest policy memo, which studies measures different countries are taking to ensure critical clean energy projects can move forward.
Budget 2024 re-committed to existing timelines for their rollout, but beyond a few tweaks the government offered few new details on its five previously announced Investment Tax Credits (ITC). The five ITCs are for Clean Technology; Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage; Clean Hydrogen; Clean Electricity; and Clean Technology Manufacturing. Budget 2024 added a sixth new one – an EV Supply Chain Investment Tax Credit that will apply to vehicle assembly, battery production and cathode active material production.
It did offer a bit more clarity on Carbon Contracts for Difference (CCFDs) in an attempt to provide more certainty around carbon pricing to accelerate investment in decarbonization and clean growth technology. Budget 2024 said the Canada Growth Fund would offer “bespoke CCFDs and carbon offtake agreements” and “off-the-shelf contracts.”
So, did Budget 2024 provide clarity and certainty on energy policy? The answer is a qualified yes, given the long-awaited Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. But that was an exception in a document imbued with incrementalism and status quo.
For a government fond of previewing its policies – whether through piecemeal rollouts in staged media events or aspirational budget announcements – it still has more work to do to bring those policies into sharper focus.
MIKE BLANCHFIELD
Director, Energy Policy and Global Affairs
Published: April 16, 2024