To the Editor,
Internationally, Canada is known as a “colossal fossil” when it comes to climate change. In British Columbia, there are already 10 operating coal mines from East Kootenays to Campbell River, producing more than 26,000 million tons of coal yearly. That makes the province a double colossal fossil.
Adding a Raven Coal mine to a location near you, and shipping the black stuff from Port Alberni to China, would make this town a triple colossal fossil.
I’m a little old lady who came here to retire because the town was green and lush, and the mill had stopped stinking. I’m not a big consumer, but many of my friends are.
I have visitors coming every year from different parts of B.C., Canada, US, and Europe. Invariably, I take them to Harbour Quay, especially on market days. Everyone has been pleasantly surprised by the scene —and scenery.
Add to that a monstrous coal storage facility, and a ship spewing diesel fumes…I would be embarrassed to show the harbour to my guests.
This is only one story, and if you multiply that by as many times as there are people in the community who oppose the coal project, you will get an idea of the enormity of consequences.
What about the people with existing breathing problems? They would have to sell their houses, and move away, due to the deterioration of air quality.
BC Assessment has already stated that a coal port will likely have a negative impact on property values. The local labour council opposes it. A hundred more objections could be voiced.
As someone asked in Thursday’s meeting, “What does it take to be heard?”
Rayana Erland,
Port Alberni