Dear Sir:
The recently announced provincial government greenhouse gas regulation is not likely to work because it is doubtful the new rules will be able to comply with the Provincial Clean Air Act, therefore contributing to the degradation of the world’s climate.
LNG development in Australia has had its problems, there are lessons to be learned. The country moved ahead with the development of too many projects too quickly.
There was conflict with a variety of issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. Unexpected financial complexities were experienced. The Australian government admitted it should have proceeded at a slower pace, approving one plant at a time.
Our provincial government should take heed, slow the pace and move in a more careful and thoughtful framework. One LNG plant in Kitimat and one in Prince Rupert would reduce conflicts and environmental impacts. Unfortunately the genie is out of the bottle.
It is ridiculous to be conned into believing that if the province does not move quickly it will miss the window of opportunity (even if believable) of hosting a trillion dollar industry.
Pacific Northern Gas is proposing to construct a natural gas looping pipeline project from Summit Lake to either Kitimat or Prince Rupert. One part is proposed to snake through the Class 1 Section of the Copper (Zymoetz) River Watershed.
No pipeline should be allowed in this special, wild and for the most part pristine valley. The new pipeline should follow alongside the existing PNG pipeline through the Telkwa Pass either via a tunnel or by providing protection that will withstand an avalanche.
While the municipal politicians do not have the ability to stop this project, their strong protests and influence could bring about a second look from PNG.
Unfortunately local politics and special interests have glommed onto the boomtown mentality and temptations like there is a no tomorrow, almost an anything goes attitude.
It is time for new councils and boards to be listening to all of its citizens and pull back from the hugging and glad handing with the LNG proponents and consider the whole picture. It is not too late to consider all sides and positions and have the courage to be tough, but fair.
To compromise much of the wonderful, natural attributes of our region for a sunset (it will not last forever) industry is not acceptable.
Jim Culp, Terrace, B.C.
