The B.C. government is proactively taking the first step toward defining a world-leading marine-based spill response model to protect B.C.'s vast 27,000-kilometre coastline.

Environment Minister Terry Lake has suspended the assessment of the Vancouver Airport Fuel Delivery project proposed by the Vancouver Airport Fuel Facilities Corporation pending the outcome of work underway by the Ministry of Environment on land-based spill preparedness and response and in determining the elements of a world-class marine spill regime.

The B.C. government accepts the recommendations contained in an audit report released today by the Office of the Auditor General titled "Audit of Biodiversity in B.C.: Assessing the Effectiveness of Key Tools".

Taking into account over 8,000 comments from a public consultation as well as recommendations from the bi-partisan Special Committee on Cosmetic Pesticides, the proposed amendments to the Integrated Pest Management Act will address public concern over the use of cosmetic pesticides on private landscaped areas.

Nearly 276, 000 hectares was added to the BC Parks system through legislation introduced by Environment Minister Terry Lake.

The B.C. government will examine the pricing model for Pacific Carbon Trust (PCT) and, if needed, make whatever changes are necessary to ensure B.C.'s public sector organizations, including schools and hospitals, continue to receive the best value.

British Columbia is still looking for solid evidence of Northern Gateway's ability to provide world-leading maritime spill prevention and response following cross-examination at the hearings into the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline in Prince Rupert.

B.C. winters usually mean outdoor adventures, and what better way to enjoy B.C. Family Day that in a B.C. park?