In the Network: Media Co-op • Dominion   Locals: Halifax • Montreal • Toronto • Vancouver
This post has been reviewed by the Vancouver Media Co-op editorial committee.

STORY publié le Décembre 18, 2009 by b5baxter

Community banners resist government climate spin

Billboards modified overnight

by Rob Baxter →Environment


Morning commuters were greeted with new messages along Gateway Program construction routes this morning. 

The construction announcement signs had been modified to read "Farms not Freeway", "Peatland not Pavement", "Homes not Highways" and "Transit not Truck Routes."

 The action occurred on the last scheduled day of climate talks in Copenhagen.  Government reports estimate the Gateway program will increase greenhouse gas emissions by over 160,000 tonnes per year.  Independent modelling puts the figure at over 300,000 tonnes.

The signs modified included promises that transportation experts have consistently questioned.

 Some sign promise that the project will be "Reducing Congestion." Yet, Gordon Campbell said in 2003 “You cannot build your way out of congestion”.

The signs also promise that the government is "Strengthening the Economy."  The Provincial and Federal governments have provided massive investments to the Port in Prince Rupert to develop its container handling abilities. Yet the Prince Rupert port is quiet and being used at less than half of its capacity, while the Provincial Government spends billions to expand DeltaPort and its infrastructure.

 Photos at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/43367159@N07/

Catch the news as it breaks: follow the VMC on Twitter.
Join the Vancouver Media Co-op today. Click here to learn about the benefits of membership.

The site for the Vancouver local of The Media Co-op has been archived and will no longer be updated. Please visit the main Media Co-op website to learn more about the organization.