This month, it was announced that the Canadian government would withdraw funding from the Canadian Environmental Network. This network helps to connect the federal government with Canadian citizens and environmental groups. It is also vital in networking, communication and co-ordination services. Melissa Lantsman, Director of Communications for the Minister of the Environment, said, “Environment Canada has decided not to enter into a contribution agreement with the Canadian Environmental Network this fiscal year… Responsible spending and sound management of tax dollars are important at all times. During difficult economic times, Canadians expect the government to be even more vigilant.”
By becoming more “vigilant” in spending, is the government referring to the $28 million in funding it will provide to commemorate the war of 1812 over the next four years? Or are they talking about the 500,000 hand-held Diamond Jubilee flags that they ordered in honor of the Queen, estimated to cost over $300,000?
This led me to think that the network must have cost a lot to run, considering that money is still flowing into other endeavors. So what IS the cost of running this organization?
Only $547,000
Personally, I would forgo my handheld flag in the name of the environment and its health…
Canada is now faced with criticism from people all over the world regarding the oilsands and the Keystone pipeline- and the international community is taking notice. At a time when citizens need more communication with the government and more information regarding the environment, I think that a network so essential in these duties should remain in operation.
Environmental organizations such as the Canadian Environmental Network are important because they help to form a more accurate and well rounded picture regarding the “true cost” of some of our decisions as a society. Often, people view natural resources and land as cheap means for profit. What we fail to take into account, however, are the externalities of such production. When we go to a store to buy something, the price tag is often not a true reflection of the value of that item, or the price paid by others in order to make that item. Who factors in the cost of a loss of biodiversity, increased pollution, environmental damage, or the exploitation of workers? If this cost is not considered by corporations, it must be considered by someone. Although we do not pay the price of many of these factors, our environment does- and it needs organizations that will speak on its behalf.
