Everywhere you look these days, we are seeing expressions of concern for the environment and the direction it appears to be going. We had some very good news last year after an announcement that the island may be subjected to an offshore drilling expedition was overturned. We asked ourselves, what can we do as individuals to protect this beloved Island if this issue resurfaces? We reached out to David Neira, Energy Coordinator with the Ecology Action Centre in Nova Scotia, and asked him if he had any insights on what could be done to prevent another scenario where Sable Island is at risk of environmental dangers in the future. David’s response:
“The recent suspension of the offshore petroleum exploration license off Sable Island is a significant victory for environmental conservation. This decision demonstrates a growing recognition of the need to balance resource development with preserving our natural heritage. It underscores a hopeful shift towards more sustainable practices.
To ensure this suspension remains permanent, several factors could come into play. First, continued advocacy and public engagement are crucial. By maintaining pressure on policymakers and highlighting the unique ecological value of Sable Island, we can help ensure that the suspension translates into a lasting ban. Increased scientific research and documentation of the island’s biodiversity will also be essential in making a strong, evidence-based case for its protection.
Moreover, leveraging legal frameworks and environmental regulations can solidify this decision (for instance, it is necessary to get approval of Bill C-49 which is still under discussion in the House of Commons). Advocates can work to integrate the protection of Sable Island into broader legislative measures that prioritize conservation over resource extraction. Collaborating with other environmental organizations and stakeholders will amplify these efforts, creating a unified front to safeguard this irreplaceable ecosystem.
Finally, public awareness and education play a pivotal role. As more people become informed about the risks of offshore exploration and the intrinsic value of Sable Island, societal support for permanent protection will grow. This collective consciousness can drive political will, resulting in more robust and enduring conservation policies.
In summary, through persistent advocacy, scientific research, legal action, and public education, we can strive to ensure that the suspension of the offshore exploration license off Sable Island is not just temporary but a permanent protection measure.”
We are living in a changing world and there is much work to be done! Don’t forget to follow Friends of Sable Island Society on social media and let’s make a pact to make each day better than the last!
