Addressing Declarations of Climate Emergency at the Municipal Level
Report to Canadian Municipal Councils CCLEI24_004
This report can be adapted for use in other municipalities, sent to local councils, adapted for delegations, shared in coffee meetings with councilors and so on.
Canadian Councils on Local Issues
To: Mayor and Members Council of the City of Peterborough
From: Maggie Braun, Canada's Local Councils on Local Issues (CCLI)
Agenda Item: Peterborough Councils adoption of the Declaration of Climate Emergency, September 23, 2019.
Subject
WHEREAS Report IPGACP24-003 states that the City Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 which was intended to galvanize public support.
BE IT RESOLVED that Council rescind the Declaration of Climate Emergency and present a composed and practical environmental protection strategy emphasizing local ventures and constructive community schemes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED The Council of the City of Peterborough reconsider Report CSD16-031, Adoption of the Climate Change GHG Reduction Targets and Action Plans, December 12, 2016.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Peterborough appoint a member of council to stand as a member on Peterborough's CCLI Committee which meets quarterly in Peterborough to ensure sustainable development policies to not deliberately or inadvertently impose on or restrict the Canadian way of life.
Background
This recommendation is based on the belief that the current targets and action plans, if pursued, could lead to unintended consequences that may significantly impact the city's future. The Council's participation in sustainable development, net zero programs, while commendable, may not be in the city's best interest if not carefully balanced with other crucial factors.
The United Nations' objective to restore its credibility in 2024 is a difficult task, especially with radical statements like the U.N. climate chief's urgent call for action on April 10, 2024. The statement claimed that humans have only two years left to "save the world," further worsening the situation.
Similarly, the Council's approach must be measured and evidence-based to avoid further erosion of public trust. The council should consider this in light of declaring a state of climate emergency in Peterborough and using its powers to galvanize public opinion. In doing so, the Council will not win the people's trust.
While such statements aim to mobilize action, they can also breed fear and anxiety, particularly among the younger generation already burdened with mental health issues. A more balanced, less fear-inducing approach is essential to foster public trust and encourage a more constructive dialogue on climate change.
Our firm recommendation to the Council to reconsider the Declaration of Climate Emergency for Peterborough is firmly grounded in the necessity of an evidence-based approach. This approach plays a pivotal role in restoring public trust and serves as a testament to the Council's dedication to transparency and accountability.
It is a step towards a more balanced and informed decision-making process.
Engagement and Consultation
In the event that a member of the council is appointed to become a part of the CCLI Board, they will collaborate with the Local Council on Local Issues to determine and prioritize the most relevant and pressing social and environmental projects for the city of Peterborough. This partnership will ensure that the city's environmental initiatives are given the proper attention and resources they require while ensuring sustainable development policies to not deliberately or inadvertently impose on or restrict the Canadian way of life.
Further Reading
A Municipal Primer on the United Nations Conference
on Environment and DevelopmentSubmitted by, Margaret Hope Braun,
Founder of the Canadian Council
on Local IssuesAuthor: Margaret Hope Braun
Email: gather2030@protonmail.com