Beairsto Elementary student spreads green message
Politicians are being told not to abandon younger generations.
Neave Allen, a Grade 5 student at Beairsto Elementary, asked Vernon council Monday to be aware of the impact of climate change.
“You must make reducing emissions a priority. You can stop development far from the city core,” she said.
“You should encourage green roofs and solar panels on roofs.”
Allen also encouraged Vernon council to lobby the provincial and federal governments.
“They are not acting enough and they need to hear from you,” she said.
Allen’s message resonated with Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
“There’s no question all levels of government could do more,” she said. “I’m encouraged to see a young person so passionate and aware about this.”
Mayor Rob Sawatzky says he was impressed with the presentation but admits municipalities are limited in what they can do about the environment.
“The big thing here are the federal and provincial governments,” he said.
“The federal Conservative government has no interest in climate change and doing anything about it. They don’t pay attention to the science.”
During a media interview, Allen reiterated her message.
“I want people to think more about our environment. There’s a lot more we can do to help the environment,” she said.
She has several ideas for communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including a bicycle sharing program.
“Make parking lots smaller to force people to walk more,” she said.
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