George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy has issued the following statement to celebrate Earth Day 2021:

“Today, we join with people throughout British Columbia and around the world in celebrating Earth Day. While this year’s celebrations reflect the requirement to stay apart due to COVID-19, today is a day to recommit to the work ahead – tackling the threats of climate change and unlocking the twin benefits of cleaner communities and clean-energy economies that will determine the future of our planet. 

“As world leaders commit to further action on climate change, we in British Columbia remain more committed than ever to protecting and enhancing our environment and building a cleaner, better future for everyone.

“This past year has shown remarkable changes in the clean economy, despite the global pandemic. Major automakers have increased commitments to electric vehicles, pledging to phase out fossil-fuel cars. Global investors are moving trillions of dollars to build a net-zero economy. And more than 110 countries have already pledged to reach net-zero emissions.

“In B.C., our government continues with significant investments in our CleanBC plan to build a cleaner, stronger economic recovery and help us reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

“We’re expanding clean transportation options that are affordable and convenient. We’re helping people, businesses and communities build energy-efficient homes, buildings and schools. And we’re working with B.C.’s industry and clean tech sectors to reduce emissions, support good jobs and build on our advantages in the clean economy of the future.

“COVID-19 has highlighted just how interconnected we are – both within and beyond our borders. It has also shown how much can be accomplished when we work together to achieve a common purpose.

“These are important lessons in our work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a better future for our kids and grandkids.

“Climate change knows no borders. By working together, we can help make sure we’re ready for the enormous opportunities ahead as the world makes the transition to a cleaner economy that supports the biodiversity and healthy ecosystems we need to survive and to thrive.”