Kelowna declares climate crisis. But council asks, what’s the point?

While Kelowna lawmakers admit more must be done to mitigate environmental impact, many were weary about pushing ahead with formally declaring a climate crisis in Kelowna.

Why?

Because it lacks tangible action.

The motion, brought forward by Coun. Gord Lovegrove and seconded by Mohini Singh, sparked rigorous debate among lawmakers.

And while the motion passed 8-1, some votes were openly cast begrudgingly.

“It seems like a [public relations] exercise to me,” Coun. Rick Webber said to audible gasps. “I don’t see the point of it.”

Webber was adamant more needs to be done to protect the environment and mitigate climate change but said issuing a proclamation would do little to accomplish that goal.

He remarked how several people admit they want to do more than “talk the talk,” but added how “declaring a climate crisis is just talking.”

Coun. Ron Cannon echoed his concerns, though in a more extreme manner.

“Humans impacting climate is real. Climate emergency is not,” he said, labelling the motion as simply symbolic.

He said if the government declared climate change a crisis, then why not do the same for housing, toxic drugs, or any issue plaguing society.

“More bureaucracy and platitudes don’t work in my mind.”

Even Coun. Loyal Wooldridge and Charlie Hodge, both ardent supporters of environmental stewardship, questioned the impact of the motion.

“Do I support your concept? Absolutely. The trick in my mind, is what to do about it,” Hodge said.

Mayor Tom Dyas outlined several of the initiatives in Kelowna’s climate resiliency strategy and wondered how the motion would help move those items forward.

Defending the move, Lovegrove and Singh said the declaration would send an important signal to the public and business leaders that lawmakers take climate change seriously.

“We can either trust the experts and our First Nation’s neighbours and acknowledge the truth, or not,” Lovegrove said.