Re: Slocan council votes to join proposed lawsuit against Big Oil, Nelson Star, March 5
One of the biggest causes of inflation is the climate crisis. The droughts, the heatwaves, the smoke, all contribute to reduced crops, flooding, health problems (breathing), mental health with people worried about next summer. The healthcare system is already struggling. Fighting forest fires cost B.C. over $1 billion in 2023. Premier David Eby said this is ruining our province. The Climate Institute says these climate disasters will reduce Canada’s GDP by $25 billion in 2025.
Science tells us this crisis is caused by burning fossil fuels. The five largest fossil fuel companies have, since the beginning of the Ukraine war two years ago, made a record $280 billion in profits from higher gas prices. This is the primary cause of inflation. This money, I am sure, will be passed on in rich dividends, higher executive salaries, and more investment in fossil fuel production. Meanwhile, the cost of climate disasters is borne by the government, and ultimately you and me.
These costs should be borne by fossil fuel companies. They caused them.
To successfully sue the giant oil corporations will be a challenge. They have highly paid, skilled lobbyists who have the ear of government. Several communities in B.C. have signed on to our SueBigOil.ca campaign and committed $1 per resident to this cause. We need at least 500,000 people. I urge you to approach your local government and urge them to make this commitment.
David Cunningham
Nelson