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Blundon and Coccola shared their experience at COP26 and their analysis of key issues and outcomes. This led to discussion about the implications for Canada and how we can advance climate action.
Ottawa (09 Dec. 2021) — NUPGE’s Advisory Committee on the Environment (ACE) held its second virtual meeting of the year on November 30.
These meetings provide an opportunity for committee members to share information on the work being done within their Components, to discuss developments across the country, and advise the National Union on its work.
Reports from across the country
Components are engaged in environmental initiatives in a variety of ways, from member education and engagement, to reducing their own environmental footprint.
Committee members also reported on the political situation in their respective provinces, including updates on legislation and policy developments related to the environment and climate change.
Common across the country is that, while governments may be saying the right thing when it comes to climate action and environmental protection, the details and follow-through remain to be seen.
Coordinating at the national level
ACE plays a crucial role in guiding NUPGE’s work on the environment and climate change.
One area that ACE has identified as a priority is Just Transition. Through letters to the m inister and a formal submission to government, NUPGE has been pressuring the federal government to move meaningfully on climate action and to facilitate Just Transition.
With the help of ACE, NUPGE has also compiled a resource on collective agreement language related to the environment, another key area of interest for this committee.
Global climate action
ACE was debriefed on the UN climate change conference known as COP26, which happened in November in Glasgow, Scotland. NUPGE was represented there by Secretary-Treasurer Bert Blundon and committee member James Coccola of the BCGEU/NUPGE.
At the ACE meeting, Blundon and Coccola shared their experience at COP26 and their analysis of key issues and outcomes. This led to discussion about the implications for Canada and how we can advance climate action.
Inspired to continue the struggle
There is no doubt that unions have a role to play in tackling the climate crisis and ensuring a Just Transition for all workers. It will not be easy, but neither have any of the fights unions have fought been easy.
We look forward to continuing to work with, and learn from, this committee of dedicated activists.