It’s been a busy couple weeks for our resident climate change expert: the Conservation Council’s latest research project, looking at what it takes for communities to embrace renewable energy projects in their neighbourhood, has piqued the interest of environmentalists and developers across the country; and, Dr. Louise Comeau was called upon to weigh in on the federal government’s new carbon offset system.
June 17 | CBC Information Morning Fredericton: Dr. Louise Comeau on Building Community Support For Renewable Energy Projects — Dr. Louise Comeau gives a rundown on our latest research project which looks at why some renewable energy projects fail and what it takes to build strong community support behind them. Dr. Comeau says projects will have a much better chance of moving forward if local residents are involved early, have a say in the location and scope of the project, and get a fair share of the costs and benefits. Dr. Comeau also spoke about this research with CBC Information Morning Moncton on June 17.
June 10 | Radio-Canada: Dr. Louise Comeau analyzes opposition to scrapped Chaleur Ventus wind farm — Dr. Louise Comeau speaks with Radio-Canada about opposition to the now canceled Chaleur Ventus wind farm and her research into what it takes for renewable energy projects to be successful.
June 8 | The Canadian Press: Dr. Louise Comeau Calls Out Canada’s “Ridiculous” Federal Carbon Credit System — Dr. Louise Comeau called Canada’s federal carbon credit system ridiculous, saying it shows that big industry in Canada is already being asked to do very little about their own emissions. Dr. Comeau says that allowing emitters to buy credits for less than the price of the carbon price simply lowers their financial incentive to cut their own emissions. Emissions reductions at landfills, on farms and in forests should be happening in addition to the cuts needed from big industry, she says.