I’m going to be extremely honest. When I moved to Alberta, I thought I’d work in the oil and gas industry, simply because I heard it paid well.
I didn’t know much else about it. As time went on, I realized my passions and ambitions lied elsewhere.
I want to begin by recognizing the incredible dedication of those in that industry and their willingness to make sacrifices in order to earn a just livelihood.
After long, cold winters, I always look forward to summers for outdoor fun. But recently, wildfires have caused a lot of smoke in the Calgary region, making it hard to enjoy the nicer temperatures.
I was surprised to find there was very little discussion on climate change during the recent provincial election in May, despite the extensive conversations about politics and understanding this topic is complex.
Wildfires have been occurring earlier and spreading over a larger area, resulting in significant property and forest damage. The smoke produced by these fires has severely impacted the air quality, making it one of the worst in the world. Consequently, many individuals have had to evacuate their homes. It is truly heartbreaking to learn that firefighters lost their lives during these wildfires.
Experts say studies indicate these severe wildfires are linked to climate change, which is making the planet hotter and drier.
Even though most people in Alberta I talk to agree we should do something about the province’s carbon emissions, politicians running for office rarely seem to address this issue properly, which is disappointing.
I know Alberta's prosperity largely comes from the energy sector, which brings in a lot of money and creates many jobs. But it also releases a lot of carbon emissions, which are bad for the environment.
I understand reducing emissions may have an impact on job opportunities within the industry and that this is a concern for many families. That is why I strongly believe it is vital for political leaders to address climate change and explore ways in which we can safeguard our economy.
After witnessing the devastating effects of wildfires, I strongly believe we can no longer ignore the impact of climate change. It's time to break the taboo.
I strongly urge our political leaders to prioritize the environment and collaborate toward creating a better future for us. It is alarming to wake up and see a blanket of smoke covering the sun. Frankly, we deserve better.
I think we can find a balance and work towards a greener future. Climate change is a big problem that affects all of us. We need our leaders to talk more about it and take action to protect our planet.
I believe Alberta has the potential to serve as a role model for implementing positive changes while still maintaining a strong economy.
