Newsroom - Environment tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2011-03-30://1 2012-05-15T22:32:13Z Movable Type Enterprise 4.38 Head out to a BC Park for the Long Weekend tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3255 2012-05-15T16:00:00Z 2012-05-15T22:32:13Z British Columbians have made more than 6,000 camping reservations for the Victoria Day long weekend representing an approximate 13 per cent increase over the same period last year, Environment Minister Terry Lake said. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - British Columbians have made more than 6,000 camping reservations for the Victoria Day long weekend representing an approximate 13 per cent increase over the same period last year, Environment Minister Terry Lake said.

Overall, reservations in BC Parks are up six per cent this year (38,775 reservations) compared with 2011 (36, 563 reservations) and it's not too late to book a campsite for the long weekend. Sites with substantial remaining reservable campsites are Gladstone, Green Lake, Red Bluff, Strathcona, Wells Gray and Wasa Lake provincial parks. To see which campsites are still available, check out: www.discovercamping.ca

The most popular parks are Haynes Point, Bear Creek, Rathtrevor Beach and Okanagan Lake South. If you want to visit a park but there is no reservable space left, check out the first-come, first-served availability tool on the Discover Camping website.

For the 2012 season, campsites in 95 BC Parks can be reserved and also new this year is the ability to make up to three reservations in one transaction. Don't forget that last May Premier Christy Clark and Environment Minister Terry Lake announced that parking is now free in BC Parks, and that benefits families who want to stop by for a day-visit.

Quote:

Environment Minister Terry Lake -

"When you see these kinds of numbers with BC Parks reservations, I think that speaks to the quality experience people have come to expect in our parks. We continue to provide British Columbians with the best value and lots of options for outdoor fun."

Quick Facts:

  • In 2011, enhancements to the reservation system included adding group camp and picnic sites, the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit and the Mount Robson Berg Lake Trail.
  • In 2011, BC Parks brought in a convenient new Smartphone application that allows campers to make, change and cancel a reservation while on the road.
  • Even though the Smartphone interface was developed for ease of access while on the road, you do not need a Smartphone or Android to access the mobile system. You can use any computer. This is a great tip to provide another means to access the busy Discover Camping website, particularly during peak periods.

Learn More at:

BC Parks: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/things_to_do.html

Great Ranger Experience videos on YouTube: http://bit.ly/ooyxPj

Connect with BC Parks on Facebook: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Book a reservation: www.discovercamping.ca/

Media Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745


]]> Bears are out so public asked to be aware tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3243 2012-05-13T18:00:00Z 2012-05-14T01:48:11Z With bears seeking out non-natural food sources, Environment Minister Terry Lake is spreading the word to British Columbians to do what they can to control bear attractants and reduce conflicts with bears. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - With bears seeking out non-natural food sources, Environment Minister Terry Lake is spreading the word to British Columbians to do what they can to control bear attractants and reduce conflicts with bears.

The main cause of human-wildlife conflicts in B.C. is access to non-natural food sources. Bears that learn how to get at exposed pet food, ripe fruit, improperly stored garbage, dirty barbecues or composts become conditioned and will continue to return to the area.

British Columbians are encouraged to prevent human-bear conflicts by adopting the following practices:

  • Keep garbage secured in a bear-resistant container or in the house, garage or shed until pick-up day and return the containers to the secure site once they are emptied.
  • Pick ripe and fallen fruit daily and remove any unused fruit trees.
  • Use bird feeders only in winter.
  • Keep the ground free of seeds and nuts.
  • Clean the barbecue grill after each use, and store it in a secure area.
  • Bring pet food dishes inside and store the pet food inside.
  • Do not add meat products or uncooked food to compost. Turn it regularly and keep it covered.
  • If residents spot a bear, they are advised to remain calm, keep away from the bear and bring children and pets indoors, if possible.
  • People should never approach a bear and should not run from it, as bears can move very quickly.
  • Once a bear has left the area, residents should check their yards to ensure no attractants are available.

The Conservation Officer Service (COS) is the primary responder to human-wildlife conflicts where there is a risk to public safety, conservation concerns or where significant property damage has occurred. Recent changes to the Wildlife Act give Conservation Officers the ability to issue a $230 ticket or notice for a court appearance to residents who do not secure attractants. Residents who intentionally leave out items that attract dangerous wildlife could also be issued a Dangerous Wildlife Protection Order. Failure to comply with an order carries a $575 fine.

In communities where attractants are managed properly, there has been a decline in related human-bear conflict and the number of bears that have to be destroyed.

In 2011-12, the COS received approximately 37,500 calls regarding human-wildlife conflicts. Of those calls, approximately 23,800 involved human-bear conflicts. Over the past five years in B.C., an average of 600 black bears have been destroyed each year, while 93 were relocated.

Bear Aware is an educational program managed by the British Columbia Conservation Foundation that is designed to prevent and reduce conflicts between people and bears. Last month, the Province announced that it is investing $225,000 toward Bear Aware to bring the program to more communities throughout B.C. over the next year.

In areas with high incidences of human-bear conflict, residents can learn more about avoiding conflict by talking to their local Bear Aware Community Co-ordinator.

The public is encouraged to report human-wildlife conflicts that threaten public safety or result in significant property damage by calling the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line, toll-free at 1 877 952-7277 (RAPP), or visit the RAPP website at: www.rapp.bc.ca

Learn More:

More information about how to be Bear Aware can be found at: www.bearaware.bc.ca

For more information on bears, human-bear conflicts, and the criteria necessary to reach "Bear Smart" status, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/bearsmart/bearsmintro.html

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

]]> Awareness Week wraps up, but composting continues tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3240 2012-05-12T18:00:00Z 2012-05-14T13:20:53Z Putting organics in their place is a year-round activity that not only helps feed plants, lawns and hedges throughout British Columbia, but also reduces GHGs. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Putting organics in their place is a year-round activity that not only helps feed plants, lawns and hedges throughout British Columbia, but also reduces GHGs.

As International Composting Awareness Week (May 6-12) wraps up today, it's a reminder that we can do our part to move those organics out of landfills and back to the earth where they belong. Organics left in landfill break down to create methane, a greenhouse gas that is 20 times more powerful than carbon dioxide.

British Columbians can use these tips to reduce organics in the local landfill:

  • Garden composts have limits. Send hard-to-breakdown scraps like meat, bones and eggshells to the local organic composting facility.
  • Be mindful that bears are out looking for food, so do not add meat products or uncooked food to compost. Turn it regularly and keep it covered.
  • Warm weather means the kitchen bin can heat up and cause odours. Stifle the stink by placing organics in the freezer or wrap wet food waste in paper.
  • The heat of the summer will also speed up the composting process, so move your scraps out of the house and turn the compost pile regularly.
  • Fruit flies are unwelcome guests when kitchen composting collects. Capture those flies with bowls of vinegar covered with plastic wrap or spritz a disinfectant spray around the bin.
  • Compostable liners keep green bins clean and make disposal very easy.
  • If a liner is not used, rinse regularly to reduce the organics left in the bin.
  • Outside containers attract pests big and small. Discourage those crafty critters by sealing them up tight or storing them out of the way.
  • Backyard composters are another attractant for pests. Discourage rodents by sealing the bin while it generates the brown gold for the garden.
  • Ensure that whatever is tossed in the green bin or on the compost heap is free of pesticides or chemicals.
  • Every region reduces its landfill in its own way. Find out more from your local municipality or regional district.

Learn More:

Learn about composting in Canada at the Compost Council of Canada website: http://www.compost.org/

List of Regional Recycling in Lower Mainland:

http://www.harvestpower.com/bc/organics-recycling-in-the-region/

Recycling Council of British Columbia: http://rcbc.bc.ca/

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

]]> Province expands protected areas system tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3202 2012-05-07T21:00:00Z 2012-05-08T00:03:58Z The B.C. government introduced legislation today that will add more than 550,000 hectares to the province's parks and protected areas system, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced today. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The B.C. government introduced legislation today that will add more than 550,000 hectares to the province's parks and protected areas system, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced today.

Bill 49, the Protected Areas of British Columbia Amendment Act, 2012, will begin the implementation of the Atlin Taku River Land Use Plan by establishing 10 new conservancies and adding land to the existing Atlin Provincial Park. The new conservancies and additions to Atlin Provincial Park will add more than 413,000 hectares to the province's protected areas system.

The legislation will add more than 166,000 hectares of marine foreshore area to nine existing conservancies and 611 hectares of land to five existing conservancies on Haida Gwaii.

Bill 49 also upgrades two recreation areas (Cascade and Porteau Cove) and a portion of the Atlin Recreation Area to Class A park status. It adds a total of approximately 233 hectares to five other Class A provincial parks including Cultus Lake, Gowlland Tod, Main Lake, Skagit Valley and Stawamus Chief.

Further, the boundaries of two Class A parks and two conservancies will be modified to remove lands:

  • Cultus Lake Provincial Park: 11 hectares are being removed from the park to exclude three public roads.
  • Stawamus Chief Provincial Park: 2.36 hectares are being removed from the park. Dzawadi/Upper Klinaklini River Conservancy: As a result of a consultation process ordered by the Supreme Court of British Columbia, approximately 62 hectares are being removed from the conservancy.
  • Kamdis Conservancy: 0.236 hectares are being removed to exclude an existing road.

A backgrounder follows.

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745

BACKGROUNDER

Amendments to conservancies and parks

Atlin Taku Land Use Plan - Bill 49 will begin the implementation of the Wóoshtin wudida Atlin Taku Land Use Plan and Taku River Tlingit First Nation Strategic Engagement Agreement with more than 413,000 hectares added to the provincial protected areas system as a result. The amendments will establish 10 new conservancies in the Atlin area: Golden Gate/Xáat Yádi Aani; Indian Lake - Hitchcock Creek/Át Ch'îni Shà; Monarch Mountain/A Xéegi Deiyi; Mount Minto/K'iyán; Nakina - Inklin Rivers/Yáwu Yaa; Nakina - Inklin Rivers (Kuthai Area)/Yáwu Yaa; Taku River/T'akú Téix'; Tutshi Lake/T'ooch' Áayi; Upper Gladys River/Watsíx Deiyi; Willison Creek - Nelson Lake/Sít' Héeni) and make additions to the existing Atlin Park, which is also being renamed (Atlin/Téix'gi Aan Tlein Park).

Haida Gwaii - The amendments will add marine foreshore areas totalling more than 166,000 hectares to nine existing Haida Gwaii conservancies and add 611 hectares to five conservancies consistent with the Haida Gwaii Strategic Land Use Agreement and subsequent marine planning process.

Private land acquisitions - Amendments will add lands resulting from private land acquisitions and donations to three existing Class A provincial parks: Gowlland Tod, Main Lake and Skagit Valley.

Recreation Areas - The amendments cancel three existing recreation areas under the Park Act. Cascade Recreation Area 12, 826 hectares, southeast of Hope, is being upgraded to Class A park status and the lands added to E. C. Manning Provincial Park. Porteau Cove Recreation Area (one hectare), along the Sea to Sky Highway, is being upgraded to Class A park status and the lands added to Porteau Cove Provincial Park. A portion (9,210 hectares) of the Atlin Recreation Area is being upgraded to a Class A park as a result of the Atlin Taku Land Use Plan and added to Atlin/Téix'gi Aan Tlein Provincial Park.

Boundary Amendments: The amendments modify the boundaries of two Class A parks and two conservancies to remove lands.

Stawamus Chief Provincial Park - 2.36 hectares are being removed from the park. The area being removed will subsequently be established as Stawamus Chief Protected Area under the Environment and Land Use Act. This allows for the application of a Park Use Permit for a right-of-way through the park. BC Parks staff will review the application to assess environmental impacts.

Approximately 1.93 hectares are being added to the park as a result of Crown lands transferred to the ministry in 2008 from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for a closed road that was no longer needed as part of the Sea to Sky Highway Improvement Project.

Dzawadi/Upper Klinaklini River Conservancy - As a result of a consultation process ordered by the Supreme Court of British Columbia, approximately 62 hectares are being removed from the conservancy. The area being removed will subsequently be established as Upper Klinaklini Protected Area under the Environment and Land Use Act. This will enable a full environmental assessment process to proceed (including broad public consultation) for a proposed hydroelectric project.

Cultus Lake Provincial Park - Approximately 11 hectares are being removed from Cultus Lake Park to exclude three existing public roads.

A 202-hectare foreshore area will be added to Cultus Lake Park to increase management effectiveness of recreational use along the lake fronting the park.

Kamdis Conservancy - Approximately 0.236 hectares are being removed from Kamdis Conservancy to exclude an existing access road to an industrial lease.

Park Cancellations: The amendments repeal the descriptions of two existing Class A parks.

Christie Memorial Provincial Park and Emory Creek Provincial Park - Christie Memorial Park (three hectares), adjacent to the community of Okanagan Falls, will be cancelled and the lands transferred to the Regional District of the Okanagan Similkameen for local park purposes. Emory Creek Park (29 hectares), south of Yale, will be cancelled and transferred to the Yale First Nation to meet obligations as part of the negotiations leading to the Yale First Nation Final Agreement.

Changing Park Names:

Atlin Provincial Park - Amendments rename this park to Atlin/Téix'gi Aan Tlein Park following recommendations of the Atlin Taku Land Use Plan and discussions with the Taku River Tlingit First Nation.

Sandy Island Marine Park - Amendments rename this park to Jáji7em and Kw'ulh Marine Park at the request of the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation following negotiations with the K'ómoks First Nation.

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745


]]> Composting matters to B.C. communities tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3192 2012-05-06T18:00:00Z 2012-05-07T15:39:09Z International Compost Awareness Week (May 6-12) is being celebrated in communities throughout the province, as it is every day, through innovative programs that are substantially reducing the amount of organic materials dumped in landfills. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - International Compost Awareness Week (May 6-12) is being celebrated in communities throughout the province, as it is every day, through innovative programs that are substantially reducing the amount of organic materials dumped in landfills.

"Supported by provincial policies and initiatives, municipalities around the province are turning kitchen scraps into cost savings," said Minister of Environment Terry Lake. "It's efforts by all of us that will get organics out of our landfills, while at the same time reducing greenhouse gas emissions."

British Columbia is one of the few jurisdictions in Canada that regulates composting. Introduced in 2002, the B.C. Organic Matter Recycling Regulation ensures that composting operations throughout the province meet specific standards for the production and quality of finished compost. As well, the Climate Action Charter provides a framework for communities to include organics in their GHG reduction strategies as part of their charter commitments.

Municipalities helping to drive residential and institutional initiatives include:

  • Metro Vancouver: Curb-side collection of organics will soon reach 16 local governments and close to one million people in Metro Vancouver. Cities in that region are making great strides reducing the quantity of food scraps disposed in landfills, while providing fertile ground for growing a composting industry. From Bowen Island to Pitt Meadows to Port Coquitlam, the Metro Vancouver area represents a boom in compost collaboration. The regional district's goal is to increase waste diversion to 70 per cent by 2015. To date, it has achieved 55 per cent.
  • City of Port Coquitlam: Beginning in 2008, Port Coquitlam became the first city in Metro Vancouver to start curb-side collection of compostables. The program expanded in the following years to include bi-weekly collection of garbage, kitchen compost containers and collection at schools. Today they reach over 11,000 homes and institutions and have reduced waste going to landfills by 26 per cent, saving $164,500 in operations for 2010. The City of Port Coquitlam has been recognized across B.C. for its innovative approach to waste reduction.
  • Regional District of Nanaimo: What began in 2007 as a pilot project by the Regional District of Nanaimo has quickly grown to include curb-side collection of residential food and compostable kitchen scraps from over 52,000 urban and rural homes region-wide. In addition to residential food waste diversion, more than 750 commercial and institutional waste generators in the region including small cafes, supermarkets, schools and health-care institutions divert their organic waste from landfill disposal. Since 2005, these waste generators have diverted over 3,400 tonnes of organic waste each year.
  • Dawson Creek: As part of its motto "Sustainable Dawson Creek", this northern community takes composting very seriously. The city's composting site works closely with the NEAT (Northern Environmental Action Team) in promoting and encouraging people to learn how to build a composter, or find out where to buy one. In 2008, the community recycled 4,602 tonnes of waste, which was the largest amount recycled by any community in the Peace Region.

Learn More:

B.C. Ministry of Environment Newsroom: www.gov.bc.ca/env/index.html

Regional District of Nanaimo Green Bin Program: www.beyondcomposting.ca/

Metro Vancouver food recycling and composting: www.metrovancouver.org/services/solidwaste/Pages/default.aspx

City of Port Coquitlam: www.portcoquitlam.ca/Citizen_Services/Garbage__Recycling_and_Green_Waste_Collection_Services.htm

B.C. Ministry of Environment Regulations:

www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/mun-waste/regs/omrr/

BC Climate Action Charter: www.livesmartbc.ca/community/charter.html

Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 356-0202

Carey McIver
Media Contact
Regional District of Nanaimo
250 390-6539

Glenn Bohn
Media Contact
Metro Vancouver
604 451-6697

Barry Reynard
Media Contact
City of Dawson Creek
250 784-3605


]]> Guitars make sweet music for BC Parks tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3188 2012-05-05T18:00:00Z 2012-05-07T15:44:50Z A Vancouver-based guitar manufacturer is donating $3,000 to BC Parks to purchase and plant 1,000 seedlings in a Lillooet area park to help restore 23,000 hectares of land damaged in the 2009 Kelly Creek wildfire. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ LILLOOET - A Vancouver-based guitar manufacturer is donating $3,000 to BC Parks to purchase and plant 1,000 seedlings in a Lillooet area park to help restore 23,000 hectares of land damaged in the 2009 Kelly Creek wildfire.

Initiated by Prestige Guitars and led by BC Parks, the project offers a way to raise awareness of environmental issues. The company plans to continue its sponsorship with BC Parks by taking on a new reforestation project every year and its goal is to plant a tree for every guitar manufactured.

"BC Parks is very appreciative of the support from businesses such as Prestige Guitars. Worldwide, people identify British Columbia as having spectacular forests, which we all recognize as providing far-ranging benefits from economic to environmental to recreational," said Environment Minister Terry Lake.

In an effort to avoid low soil moisture due to summer temperatures, the native Douglas-fir and spruce seedlings are scheduled to be planted in Edge Hills Provincial Park in the fall.

"By launching our own reforestation initiative, we hope to do our part for the environment, and encourage and motivate other companies to do their part. Trees play an integral part in manufacturing a guitar and we want to ensure our industry is sustainable and that B.C.'s forests will be around for our future generations," said Mike Kurkdjian, president of Prestige Guitars Ltd.

In 2009, the Kelly Creek wildfire swept the park, leaving slopes susceptible to possible landslides, heavy debris flows and flooding. The reforestation supported by the partnership will help secure the area and help mitigate safety concerns.

Find out More:

BC Parks: www.bcparks.ca

Check out Prestige Guitars at: www.prestigeguitars.com

Connect with BC Parks on Facebook: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

Mike Kurkdjian
President
Prestige Guitars
604 298-8111


]]> Septic truck spill was contained, cleanup complete tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3168 2012-05-03T21:15:00Z 2012-05-07T18:49:40Z A septic truck that turned over on the TransCanada Highway yesterday, spilling approximately 1,500 litres of raw sewage north of Victoria, has had no impact to the environment, based on the location, containment and cleanup activities. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - A septic truck that turned over on the TransCanada Highway yesterday, spilling approximately 1,500 litres of raw sewage north of Victoria, has had no impact to the environment, based on the location, containment and cleanup activities.

Craigflower Creek was not impacted because the creek is approximately one kilometre from the incident site. The nearest water body to the site is Thetis Lake, which is uphill and about half a kilometre away. None of the spilled sewage entered either of these water bodies.

The vehicle was hauling 5,400 litres of sewage when the incident occurred.

Fire crews and the local government's environmental contractors were on-site overseeing the cleanup. All the spilled material has since been cleaned up. The Ministry of Environment will not be referring this incident to the Conservation Officer Service for additional investigation.

Because local responders dealt with the incident, local government may recover costs from the spiller.

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745


]]> Every day is Earth Day in B.C. tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3077 2012-04-21T18:00:00Z 2012-04-23T01:33:33Z With electric vehicle charging stations popping up all over the province and environmentally inspired fun at B.C. schools, it's clear that in British Columbia, Earth Day lasts 365 days. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - With electric vehicle charging stations popping up all over the province and environmentally inspired fun at B.C. schools, it's clear that in British Columbia, Earth Day lasts 365 days.

"Earth Day is our chance to celebrate all that we do in British Columbia every day to ensure the Earth - the environment - is protected now and into the future," said Terry Lake, Minister of Environment. "From our Clean Energy Vehicle strategy to students reducing their energy use, for British Columbians, Earth Day is every day."

Throughout the province in municipalities, communities and favourite destinations, provincial and federal policies and programs are supporting a clean-energy vehicle infrastructure. From the North to the Lower Mainland, plugging in is fast becoming a fuelling option.

  • City of Prince George is partnering with the University of Northern British Columbia, Regional District of Fraser Fort George and the Northern Health Authority to build three new charging stations as part of its Green Fleet strategy. With funding from federal and provincial programs, the City looks forward to promoting an electric vehicle infrastructure as well as setting a new standard for transportation alternatives within Prince George and the region.
  • City of Terrace is giving the environment a boost as part of BC Hydro's Clean Energy and Electric Transportation Program. Terrace City Hall is the site of a solar panel system, as well as a new electric vehicle charging station and hybrid electric vehicle.
  • Science World in Metro Vancouver is going to be B.C.'s first location for the recently announced Level 3 DC Fast Charging stations. As part of the Green Highway and the Province's CEV Infrastructure program, this station will charge an electric car in 15 to 20 minutes.

As more charging stations come online and clean cars take to the highways, the road ahead is clear for future generations to take the wheel and steer us into a greener future.

The first-ever school energy challenge took place this past week as Surrey high schools challenged each other to see how much energy they could save.

LA Matheson, Johnston Heights, Lord Tweedsmuir and Sullivan Heights secondary schools took on the challenge to meet the goal of reducing 10 million kilowatt hours (kWh) in energy use over the five days. By the beginning of the second day, LA Matheson had already saved 500 kWh, representing a double-digit reduction in energy use. Activities included:

  • Ugly Sweats Day, when students dug out their old sweatshirts and sweatpants to keep them warm while turning down the thermostat.
  • School battery collection program.
  • Cold Lunch Day in the cafeteria.
  • Turning off lights in areas with sufficient skylights or windows.

Sunday, April 22 marks the 42nd annual Earth Day with events and celebrations taking place around the globe, as many people take the opportunity to increase awareness and support of a clean environment. Earth Day is a chance to promote a unifying environmental message by organizing and participating in activities that reduce energy use and promote awareness of the Earth's natural environment.

Learn More:

Check out the schools' progress at: http://my.pulseenergy.com/SD36EnergyCompetition/dashboard/#/competition

CEVforBC website: http://www.cevforbc.ca/

LiveSmart BC: http://www.livesmartbc.ca

BC Hydro Electric Vehicle website -

http://www.bchydro.com/about/sustainability/climate_action/plugin_vehicles.html

Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

Heather Avison
Media Enquiries
City of Terrace
250 638-4722

Scott Bone
Media Enquiries
City of Prince George
250 561-7511


]]> BC Parks commits $200,000 to volunteer projects tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3032 2012-04-15T19:00:00Z 2012-04-16T05:53:25Z BC Parks is designating $200,000 towards recreational and conservation projects involving volunteers and launching a new volunteer website today to mark National Volunteer Week April 15-21. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - BC Parks is designating $200,000 towards recreational and conservation projects involving volunteers and launching a new volunteer website today to mark National Volunteer Week April 15-21.

The extra funding is being allocated in 2012/2013 to enhance recreational and conservation opportunities for park visitors, with priority going to those projects involving volunteers. This will give many volunteers the "seed money" they need to do things like purchase project materials and other supplies. The message from volunteers that they can make a little money can go a long way was heard loud and clear during recent public consultations.

This past winter, BC Parks staff held 11 workshops across the province - from Victoria to Haida Gwaii to Cranbrook - to request input on developing an upcoming volunteer strategy for BC Parks. BC Parks consulted with volunteers, park facility operators and stakeholders and the general public. Two hundred people attended the workshops and another 500 responded to an online survey.

Workshop and survey participants told BC Parks staff about what was most important to them in the development of a volunteer strategy and also what BC Parks can do to improve the volunteer experience. As one of its first steps, a new website, BC Parks Volunteers, has been developed to provide information for potential volunteers, a networking venue for current volunteers, and profile individuals and organizations across the province whose generous commitment of time and energy helps protect the legacy of provincial parks.

Volunteers donate their time to a wide variety of projects - from trail maintenance to educational programming, and from ecological monitoring to campground hosting. They do it on horseback, on foot, backcountry skiing and even piloting a floatplane to check on access to remote locations or deliver supplies such as signs for the backcountry.

BC Parks has always benefitted from contributions made by volunteers. Much of the protected areas system we know today such as Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park near Penticton and Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park on Saltspring Island has been built in concert with individuals and volunteer groups. Volunteering on park projects provides a tangible way for the general public to connect with their personal passion and contribute to their community and park system that they value.

Check out some of BC Parks' volunteers who are profiled this week and in coming weeks on the new BC Parks Volunteers blog at www.bcparksvolunteers.ca

The volunteer strategy is scheduled to be implemented in June.

Quotes:

Environment Minister Terry Lake -

"Volunteers talked and we listened. The $200,000 funding for volunteer projects and development of the BC Parks Volunteers website was central to our vision of the future of volunteers in BC Parks. We want to acknowledge and show our appreciation for our many hundreds of volunteers and attract new volunteers both individuals and groups to BC Parks. And, as we incorporate feedback from the public consultation, the development of the volunteer strategy will generate a stronger foundation and commitment to enhance and showcase volunteerism in BC Parks."

Sang Gee Bae, president, Vancouver Korean Hiking Club and BC Parks volunteer -

"Club members benefit greatly from their hikes in B.C.'s provincial parks and having them available makes us feel appreciated as we enjoy nature. That's why we would like to have the opportunity to give back as a thank-you for what has been given to us."

Find out More:

BC Parks online volunteer community: www.bcparksvolunteers.ca

BC Parks: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/things_to_do.html

Great Ranger Experience videos on YouTube: http://bit.ly/ooyxPj

Connect with BC Parks on Facebook: www.facebook.com/YourBCParks

National Volunteer Week: http://volunteer.ca/about-volunteerism/national-campaigns/national-volunteer-week

Contact:

Karen Johnston
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 812-0495


]]> As spring arrives, communities urged to get "bear aware" tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3026 2012-04-14T19:15:00Z 2012-04-15T03:36:05Z The provincial government is providing $225,000 over the next 12 months to bring the popular Bear Aware program to more communities around the province. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - The provincial government is providing $225,000 over the next 12 months to bring the popular Bear Aware program to more communities around the province.

Bear Aware is an education program focused on reducing human-bear conflict in residential neighbourhoods through education, innovation and co-operation. It is administered by the BC Conservation Foundation (BCCF) and has proven to be an effective tool to decrease conflicts. Last year, 22 communities participated in the program.

The most effective and natural way to prevent conflicts with bears in urban areas is to put away food attractants such as garbage, bird seed, compost and fruit. In communities where attractants are managed properly, there has been a decline in related human-bear conflicts and in the number of bears that have to be destroyed. In Kamloops, over 23 bears were destroyed every year because of conflicts with people, but since 2004 that number has decreased to four bears per year on average. The city hired its first Bear Aware co-ordinator in 2002.

Bear Aware education is one criterion that must be met for a community to obtain "Bear Smart" status.

"Bear Smart" is a voluntary, preventative conservation measure that encourages communities, businesses and individuals to work together. It is based on a series of criteria that communities must meet to be designated as Bear Smart. The goal is to address the root causes of human-bear conflicts to reduce the risks to public safety and private property, as well as the number of bears that have to be destroyed each year.

Four communities are currently designated "Bear Smart": Kamloops, Squamish, Lions Bay and Whistler. Over 20 other communities in B.C. are actively pursuing "Bear Smart" status.

The Conservation Officer Service (COS) is the primary responder to human-wildlife conflicts where there is a risk to public safety, conservation concerns or where significant property damage has occurred. In 2011/12 the COS received approximately 37,500 calls regarding human-wildlife conflicts. Of those calls, approximately 23,800 involved human-bear conflicts. Over the past five years in B.C., an average of 600 black bears was destroyed each year, while 93 were relocated.

Recent amendments to the Wildlife Act give conservation officers the ability to issue tickets or court appearance notices to deal with people who repeatedly and negligently fail to secure attractants. These tools complement existing tools and are expected to reduce the number of bears that come into conflict with people.

Communities can apply for the Bear Aware program by visiting: www.bearaware.bc.ca

Quotes:

Terry Lake, Minister of Environment -

"Our continued support of the Bear Aware program, without a doubt, has reduced the number of bears that have to be destroyed. We're making this funding available so that more communities can learn how to keep bears out of their yards and neighbourhoods - and that helps keep bears out of trouble."

Lance Sundquist, chief conservation officer -

"Bear Aware teaches people about proper attractant management, and that significantly reduces human-bear conflict. This not only helps to preserve public safety, but also reduces the number of bears that conservation officers have to destroy, which is our ultimate goal."

Frank Ritcey, Bear Aware co-ordinator, British Columbia Conservation Foundation -

"This support will help to expand and continue community programs that teach people how to avoid conflicts with wildlife. We encourage communities to contact us to see how we can bring a Bear Aware program to your community."

Quick Facts:

  • Black bears typically emerge from hibernation between March and May.
  • Bears generally hibernate for three to five months on the south coast and for longer periods (five to seven months) in the Interior and the north. Females, particularly pregnant ones, hibernate longer than males.
  • Hibernation is an important survival strategy for bears in regions such as British Columbia where their main foods - green vegetation, berries, salmon and insects - are not available in winter.
  • With only about six months to build up fat reserves for hibernation, black bears must eat a great deal of food. They are particularly attracted to foods that are abundant and high in protein and energy and that they can get with little effort.

Learn More:

Information on the "Bear Smart" Communities program: www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/bearsmart/bearsmintro.html

Report human-wildlife conflicts to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line toll-free at 1 877 952-7277 (RAPP), or visit the RAPP website at: www.rapp.bc.ca

Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

Frank Ritcey, BA.
Provincial Bear Aware Coordinator
BC Conservation Foundation
Phone 250 828-2551
http://www.bearaware.bc.ca


]]> Goldstream remediation on display at Open House tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.3022 2012-04-13T20:00:00Z 2012-04-13T20:42:42Z An open house at Goldstream Provincial Park tomorrow highlights remediation work in the surrounding area and river after a fuel truck overturned on the Malahat highway almost a year ago. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - An open house at Goldstream Provincial Park tomorrow highlights remediation work in the surrounding area and river after a fuel truck overturned on the Malahat highway almost a year ago.

Work completed to date includes:

  • 617.95 tonnes of contaminated soil removed from the west side of the highway.
  • Soil, water and sediment sampling.
  • Biological and hydrocarbon surveys and sampling.
  • Removal of oiled vegetation and woody debris from river and banks.
  • In-stream sediment raking to release trapped hydrocarbons.

Examples of ongoing work include:

  • Surface water, pore water (water that runs through the sediments in the bottom of the river) and groundwater monitoring.
  • Removal of remaining hydrocarbons using a soil-vapour extraction system by skimming any remaining hydrocarbons off the surface of the water.

The Ministry of Environment and stakeholders, including First Nations, are currently reviewing a draft restoration proposal prepared by environmental consultants for Columbia Fuels. While it is acknowledged that remediation will be ongoing over several years, plant life has recovered, fish have returned to the river and animals are coming to feed at the riverbank.

Surface water quality on the river has been steadily improving and based on B.C.'s water quality guidelines, it has been below detection limits for hydrocarbons since the end of July.

On April 16, 2011 a truck owned by Victoria-based Columbia Fuels spilled 42,000 L of gasoline and 600 L of diesel fuel along the Malahat section of the highway. Contaminants drained from the road into the adjacent Goldstream River, through the estuary and into the ocean. Fuel and contaminated soil were removed immediately but contaminants remain in the soil and groundwater underneath the Trans Canada highway.

The family-oriented open house will be held from 12-3 p.m. near the Nature House at Goldstream Provincial Park. Representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Columbia Fuels and the Goldstream hatchery will be available to provide information and answer questions related to the spill and the ongoing remediation work.

Quote:

Environment Minister Terry Lake -

"All parties involved have done an outstanding job of working together to clean up and remediate this precious area. We are pleased with the commitment of Columbia Fuels to the remediation work to date and the restoration activities currently being evaluated. I also want to acknowledge the participation and great work of the First Nations and the Goldstream hatchery throughout the response to this unfortunate incident."

Contact:

Dan Gilmore

Communications

Ministry of Environment

250 356-0202

Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect

]]> Youth and parks connect with Get Outside BC! tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.2989 2012-04-07T20:00:00Z 2012-04-10T03:13:09Z BC Parks is accepting applications for its innovative youth leadership program Get Outside BC. Piloted in 2011, Get Outside BC was the first of its kind in Canada. Forty youth aged 14-18 from across the province will be selected to participate in this year's summer program. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - BC Parks is accepting applications for its innovative youth leadership program Get Outside BC. Piloted in 2011, Get Outside BC was the first of its kind in Canada. Forty youth aged 14-18 from across the province will be selected to participate in this year's summer program.

Get Outside BC helps youth develop outdoor skills and build the confidence and leadership skills to inspire other youth to appreciate and spend time in parks.

The program begins with a youth leadership summit at the North Vancouver Outdoor School in Squamish July 3-7. Youth will participate in a variety of skill development workshops including outdoor safety and trip planning, bear awareness training and camping, and learning how to inspire others and plan events.

BC Parks has provided $80,000 to fund Get Outside BC over two years. In its second year, Get Outside BC 2012 is a collaborative project between BC Parks, the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society - BC Chapter (CPAWS-BC), in partnership with Mountain Equipment Co-op and the Child and Nature Alliance.

Youth who participated in last year's program said the summit alone met or exceeded their expectations and all would participate in the program again if given the opportunity.

After the summit, youth are expected to plan and lead their own event with at least 10 other youth from their community in celebration of International Youth Day on Sunday, Aug. 12. Get Outside BC will provide up to $200 to support each event.

Some of last year's youth-led events include: a day in the park with a local daycare at James Chabot Provincial Park near Windermere, a beach cleanup at Boundary Bay Regional Park near Tsawwassen, and a scout trip into Golden Ears Provincial Park near Maple Ridge.

The program wraps up with regional events that enable youth to share stories and plan for future outdoor activities.

Youth can apply online until May 7, 2012 at www.getoutsidebc.ca

Quotes: 

Environment Minister Terry Lake -

"BC Parks needs to engage youth and inspire a new generation with passion and caring for parks. We're doing this with Get Outside BC. In collaboration with our amazing partners, the first project was delivered with great success in 2011 and we hope to repeat that success again this year. "

Nicola Hill, Executive Director, CPAWS -BC -

"CPAWS is excited to be a part of the Get Outside BC project again for its second year. We recognize the importance of engaging youth in the conservation movement, and Get Outside BC reaches youth in every corner of the province. We need to save wilderness, but we also need to foster its defenders."

Learn More:

Apply online to participate in Get Outside BC at CPAWS-BC: www.getoutsidebc.ca

Child and Nature Alliance hosts an online Canada-wide Natural Leaders Alliance for youth: www.childnature.ca/nla

BC Parks: www.bcparks.ca

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

Elyse Curley
CPAWS-BC
604 910-9343


]]> B.C.'s carbon-neutral government takes next step tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.2982 2012-04-05T20:00:00Z 2012-04-05T22:25:13Z The provincial government is reaffirming its commitment to being the first carbon-neutral government in North America through a new $5-million capital program that's available to school districts for energy-efficiency projects that will lower their carbon emissions, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER -The provincial government is reaffirming its commitment to being the first carbon-neutral government in North America through a new $5-million capital program that's available to school districts for energy-efficiency projects that will lower their carbon emissions, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced.

Starting in 2012/13, the new K-12 energy-efficiency capital program will be available to boards of education through the Ministry of Education. The amount of available funding has been set to be equal to or greater than the total paid by school boards each year for purchases of carbon offsets from the Pacific Carbon Trust.

In addition to the new funding, Lake also announced program enhancements for all public sector organizations:

  • Eliminating Measurement Costs: SMARTTool administration costs will no longer be charged to public sector organizations, resulting in $850,000 cost savings that will be absorbed by the Pacific Carbon Trust.
  • Pacific Carbon Trust Advisory Panel: To ensure the Pacific Carbon Trust's offset portfolio meets the needs of stakeholders, the Pacific Carbon Trust will create an advisory panel. The panel will play an ongoing role in reviewing the structure and diversity of the carbon offset portfolio and provide suggestions regarding future offset opportunities. The panel will include representatives from the private and public sectors that purchase offsets from PCT, as well as select carbon-industry experts.
  • Streamlining current system: The establishment of a link that will feed energy data directly into the SMARTTool to reduce administrative costs associated with measuring emissions.

The enhancements are in response to stakeholder engagement that took place between October and December of last year and included leaders from the academic, health care and other public sector organizations. http://bit.ly/HLVoHj

Quotes:

Head of the B.C. School Trustees Association, Michael McEvoy -

"B.C. boards of education strongly support the reduction of GHG emissions. The funds will allow us to invest in energy efficiencies for our schools that will save money, save energy and improve the environment for our students now and into the future."

Minister of Environment, Terry Lake -

"Innovative public policy like carbon-neutral government requires consultation, collaboration and a belief that by doing what we can at home we can impact global warming. That's why we measure our emissions, reduce them to the greatest extent possible and get the public sector to zero by investing in reduction projects at home and across B.C."

Minister of Education, George Abbott, "B.C. schools are an important part of our carbon neutral government and provide an ideal opportunity for students to participate in climate action leadership. This funding will allow students to continue this participation as the schools continue their investment in energy efficiency."

Carbon neutral quick facts:

* The new K-12 energy efficiency program will be operated under the Public Sector Energy Conservation Agreement framework, which includes partnerships with BC Hydro and FortisBC.

* The Carbon Neutral Government Regulation came into effect in December 2008. It sets out details concerning measurement, reporting and offsetting emissions by public-sector organizations that are required to comply with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act.

* In 2010, B.C. became the first province or state in North America to take full responsibility for its emissions. Government's approach to carbon neutrality drives down greenhouse gas (GHG) pollution, reduces energy costs and produces savings public sector organizations can reinvest in energy saving projects. Those projects, in turn, create jobs in B.C.'s clean energy sector.

* Since 2008, B.C. has committed $75 million to public sector energy projects through the Public Sector Energy Conservation Agreement (PSECA) as additional funding for public sector energy projects. $25 million has been provided through PSECA and through other funds to school boards.

* To date, school district projects have achieved annual energy cost savings of more than $12.6 million, while reducing GHGs by over 35,600 tonnes.

* A carbon offset represents one tonne less of carbon dioxide (C02) in our atmosphere. It is created when an organization is supported to invest in real emissions-reducing activities (called an offset project).

Learn More:

* BC Newsroom - Ministry of Environment: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/environment-1

* http://bit.ly/HMiYUu

* http://www.livesmartbc.ca/government/carbon_neutral

BACKGROUNDER

Carbon Neutral Basics

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What does carbon neutral mean?

Carbon neutral means taking responsibility for the greenhouse gases emitted by our activities, whether it's an individual, a business or a government. The goal is to achieve net zero carbon emissions.

Q. How do you achieve net zero carbon emissions?

The provincial public sector has taken full responsibility and achieved 'net zero' carbon emissions by measuring its emissions, reducing them as much as possible, and offsetting the rest.

Q. What is a carbon offset?

A carbon offset represents one less tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the earth's atmosphere. It is created when an organization is supported to invest in a real emissions-reducing activity, which is called an offset project.

Q. Where are the offsets purchased?

The offsets are purchased through the Pacific Carbon Trust (PCT), which is a Crown corporation that delivers made-in-B.C. green house gas offsets that help organizations and the public sector reduce their carbon footprint.

Q. Is this the only way to purchase offsets?

Yes. Pacific Carbon Trust provides access to high-quality, B.C.-based carbon offsets that are in compliance with the emission offsets regulation established under the British Columbia Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act.

Q. Shouldn't we try to reduce emissions to the point that we don't need to buy offsets?

Carbon emissions are a by-product of economic activity that takes place around the world.

B.C.'s public sector is leading by example to reduce its carbon emissions, but we can't eliminate them entirely. What we can do is measure our emissions, reduce them where possible, and purchase offsets that reduce carbon emissions at home or somewhere else, thereby contributing net zero emissions to the global atmosphere.

Q. Is buying offsets necessary to be carbon neutral?

Yes. It's based on the principle that, since climate change is a global problem, an emission reduction made elsewhere has the same positive effect as one made locally. It doesn't matter where you cut carbon - it just matters how much. That's why B.C.'s public sector measures its carbon emissions, reduces them where possible, and offsets the balance by investing in carbon reduction projects.

Q. Why is it important to be carbon neutral?

Striving to be carbon neutral helps B.C. tackle global climate change. Climate change risk factors include severe economic, social and environmental consequences that have already cost B.C. millions of dollars in lost jobs, economic decline and have impacted communities. Carbon neutrality is about leadership - putting government's house in order as it asks businesses, communities and individuals to do the same.

Q: What is the Province doing to help average British Columbians cut carbon?

The Province encourages British Columbians to visit LiveSmart BC for information on incentives for your home or business, as well as information about easy and free ways to save energy and money.

Contact:

Karen Johnston
Communications Director
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9973
250 812-0495 (cell)


]]> Clean car plug-ins expanded around province tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.2960 2012-04-03T15:45:00Z 2012-04-04T19:20:59Z B.C.'s popular Clean Energy Vehicle (CEV) Program is getting an extra jolt from the implementation of the $2.74-million Community Charging Infrastructure Fund that will see 570 public charging stations across municipalities, regional governments, First Nations, and B.C. businesses and institutions by March 31, 2013, Minister of Environment Terry Lake announced today. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - B.C.'s popular Clean Energy Vehicle (CEV) Program is getting an extra jolt from the implementation of the $2.74-million Community Charging Infrastructure Fund that will see 570 public charging stations across municipalities, regional governments, First Nations, and B.C. businesses and institutions by March 31, 2013, Minister of Environment Terry Lake announced today.

The Community Charging Infrastructure Fund will be managed, promoted and administered by the non-profit Fraser Basin Council.

"The growing need for compatible infrastructure is clear," said Lake. "Since its launch in December last year, B.C.'s incentive program has resulted in one CEV being sold every 30 hours in this province. That's 104 British Columbians who are embracing new, green technology that not only reduces GHG emissions, but helps our clean-tech sector."

The Province will also continue to grow the green highway from B.C. to California with three Level 3 DC Fast Charging Stations deployed in the coming months, and another 27 Level 3 DC Fast Charging Stations installed throughout the province in the future. These fast chargers will allow electric vehicle owners to recharge in approximately 15 to 20 minutes, and will extend the mobility options for these drivers. These new investments come on the heels of a $261, 000-partnership contribution earlier this year by the Province to the City of Vancouver to help install over 67 electric vehicle charging stations throughout the city.

"The Fraser Basin Council is proud to partner with the government of B.C. and our regional and business partners to help build the infrastructure of our future," said David Marshall, executive director of the council. "This program is a good example of innovation and leadership in advancing sustainability."

"The new car dealers are looking forward to the next CEV milestone as our partners continue to move clean cars into people's driveways," said Blair Qualey of the New Car Dealers Association of B.C. "The charging stations will help ensure the new electric vehicle is even more appealing."

On Nov. 5, 2011, Lake announced $17 million in funding for clean-energy vehicles, infrastructure, home charging stations and the BC SCRAP-IT Society. The Clean Energy Vehicle point-of-sale incentive program provides up to $5,000 off the pre-tax sticker price for qualifying new battery electric, fuel-cell electric, plug-in hybrid electric and compressed-natural-gas vehicles.

Quick Facts:

  • The Clean Energy Vehicle Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide British Columbians with a variety of clean and green choices for the transportation needs.
  • To date, B.C. represents over 22 per cent of the national electric vehicle sales for the Nissan Leaf, reaffirming British Columbia as a market leader in the clean energy vehicle market.
  • Hydrogen-fuel-cell electric vehicles and pure battery-powered electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions.
  • Battery-powered electric vehicles should cost as little as $300 per year in electricity bills compared to upwards of $1,500 per year to fuel a gasoline-powered car.
  • In March 2011, Mercedes-Benz Canada announced plans to build a new facility in Burnaby to manufacture fuel-cell stacks for hydrogen-fuel-cell electric vehicles.
  • The Fraser Basin Council Society is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1997 to promote action-oriented, sustainable projects throughout the Fraser River Basin.

Learn More:

BC Newsroom - Ministry of Environment: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/environment-1

CEVforBC website: http://www.cevforbc.ca/

LiveSmart BC: http://www.livesmartbc.ca

New Car Dealers Association of B.C.: www.newcardealers.ca

Fraser Basin Council Society: http://www.fraserbasin.bc.ca/index.html

BC Hydro Electric Vehicles website: http://www.bchydro.com/about/our_commitment/sustainability/plugin_vehicles.html

BC Green Economy: http://www.bcge.ca/BCs_Green_Economy.pdf

A backgrounder follows.

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745

BACKGROUNDER

B.C. green programs for clean energy transportation

The CEV for BC and the infrastructure funding is all part of the Province's Clean Energy Vehicle Program announced last November. This program is part of B.C.'s green economy and the Province's commitment to maintain leadership in climate-action policy.

The CEV programs include:

  • Point-of-sale incentives of between $2,500 and $5,000 on eligible clean-energy vehicles including the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi iMiEV, Tesla Roadster, Toyota Prius, Chevrolet Volt, light-duty natural gas vehicles, light-duty hydrogen-fuel-cell electric vehicles and other qualifying vehicles bought or leased on or after Dec. 1, 2011.
  • Rebates of up to $500 per unit for residential electric charging stations that meet identified eligibility requirements for any charging equipment purchased on or after Dec. 1, 2011
  • $6.28 million in infrastructure funding for electric vehicle charging points and upgrading existing hydrogen fuelling stations.

The funding provided is expected to:

  • Provide B.C. consumers with more affordable clean-energy transportation options.
  • As part of the BC Jobs Plan, continue to champion B.C.'s leadership in advancing emerging clean-energy vehicle technology, including made-in-B.C. hydrogen fuelling and grid-integrated efficient-charging infrastructure.
  • Increase investment and employment in B.C.-based businesses that sell new cars, develop clean-vehicle technologies, build the infrastructure and provide more transportation options for consumers.
  • Encourage car manufacturers to choose British Columbia when developing and deploying new clean-energy technology.

B.C.'s Clean-Tech Sector

  • B.C. is a global leader in the hydrogen and fuel-cell transportation sector, which includes:
    • BC Transit's 20 hydrogen-fuel-cell buses.
    • The Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation that employs 200 people.
    • Mercedes-Benz's planned fuel-cell manufacturing facility and the HTEC North Vancouver Hydrogen Liquefaction project that will supply made-in-B.C. clean hydrogen throughout the Pacific Northwest.
    • B.C.'s strong research, testing and development expertise in clean transportation, with organizations such as Powertech Labs, British Columbia Institute of Technology, University of Victoria and University of British Columbia globally recognized in this sector.
    • $5.5 million from the federal government for research on Low Platinum PEM Fuel Cells (Hydrogen Cells) research at Simon Fraser University in partnerships with Automotive Fuel Cell Corp., Ballard Power Systems, Hyteon Inc., BIC Inc., GM Canada and Hydrogenics.
  • With burgeoning technology in electric-vehicle components and integration, including Delta Q Technologies and Rapid Electric Vehicles, the future is bright for green technology in the province.
  • The green, clean economy is estimated to be worth almost $2.5 trillion dollars globally. Growth suggests the sector will grow to between $20.1 and $27.4 billion in 2020.

Currently, there are about 166,000 full-time clean-tech jobs in B.C. and the green labour force growth is projected to be 1.5 per cent, which indicates that B.C. could face a worker shortage of 60,000 by 2020.

These programs are designed to accelerate the adoption of clean-energy vehicles. These qualifying vehicles can be powered by natural gas, hydrogen or electricity as their primary source of fuel.

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745

]]> Land transfer completes Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2012://1.2953 2012-03-31T17:00:00Z 2012-04-02T15:54:08Z A world-class rock-climbing destination and provincial park soon will be bigger, thanks to a land transfer to BC Parks from the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and TLC, The Land Conservancy of British Columbia, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PENTICTON - A world-class rock-climbing destination and provincial park soon will be bigger, thanks to a land transfer to BC Parks from the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and TLC, The Land Conservancy of British Columbia, Environment Minister Terry Lake announced.

The 308-hectare private property adjacent to Skaha Bluffs was purchased in 2008 for a total of $5.25 million. B.C.'s Ministry of Environment provided $1.25 million, NCC, with support from the Government of Canada, through the Natural Areas Conservation Program, provided $2.3 million and TLC raised $1.7 million.

Today's agreement allows the land to be added to Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park and managed for its important conservation and recreation values. The lands contain coniferous forest, riparian areas, rugged terrain and some shrub-steppe grasslands. This habitat also helps support up to 15 species-at-risk, including bighorn sheep.

B.C. has one of the largest parks and protected areas systems in North America. There are 1,000 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas covering approximately 14 per cent of the provincial land base - more than 13 million hectares.

TLC is a non-profit land trust that engages people in protecting and caring for B.C.'s natural areas, historic sites, farms and ranches, and places of community and recreational importance.

NCC is the nation's leading not-for-profit private land conservation organization, working to protect important natural areas and the species they sustain. Since 1962, NCC and its partners have helped to protect one million acres in B.C.

For more information:

BC Parks: www.bcparks.ca

TLC: www.conservancy.ca

Nature Conservancy of Canada: www.natureconservancy.ca

Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications
Ministry of Environment
250 213-2302

Bill Turner
Executive Director
The Land Conservancy
250 589-8024
bturner@conservancy.bc.ca

Lesley Marian Neilson
Communications Manager, BC Region
Nature Conservancy of Canada
250 661-2969 

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