The City of Oak Bay, located in British Columbia, Canada, has made significant efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the impact of climate change. The city has taken a proactive approach towards sustainability by making changes in the management of natural gas resources. The collaboration with the province also ensures a more sustainable use of natural gas in the city.
According to Ground News, the news coverage of the city’s efforts to address climate change is more left-leaning. Victoria News, which has a lean left bias, reported on the city’s sustainability efforts just one day ago. Despite these positive efforts, Oak Bay council’s decision to allow gas heaters on public sidewalk patios sends mixed messages to the community on climate change.
The council previously declared a climate emergency and prioritized mitigating and adapting to climate change and preserving the environment. However, the director of building and planning’s directive to only allow electric patio heaters was removed by unanimous council decision. This decision to allow gas heaters goes against climate change evidence and experts’ recommendations.
The council’s economic argument for allowing gas heaters on public patios trumps all other considerations, including their campaign promises to address climate change. This decision sends a mixed message to the community on the city’s commitment to sustainability.
In conclusion, while the City of Oak Bay has taken significant steps towards sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint, the decision to allow gas heaters on public patios sends a mixed message to the community. It is important for the council to prioritize their campaign promises to address climate change and preserve the environment.
