EcoWest News, April 18, 2023
Welcome to EcoWest News, a weekly round-up of news and resources that you can put to use in addressing environmental issues and protecting the wild in your community.
“Saving biodiversity doesn’t have to be boring or doom-and-gloom. We need to enjoy the creativity of breaking out of cultural norms and looking at solutions as solving a puzzle or going on a quest.” [The Revelator]
Across the West
The Saskatchewan Solar Cooperative is currently working on its 7th project, a 400 kW, 1000 panel ‘behind the meter’ installation whereby all the electrical energy produced is used on site. Shares in the cooperative are currently available. [SK Solar Cooperative]
Do it right and Calgary can have a new overpass with improved traffic flow as well as a regional park from Calgary to Airdrie benefitting people and wildlife. [Global News]
An analysis of UCP and NDP positions on coal mining in Alberta complements a look at the current players and the possibilities for green energy combined with relinquishing coal leases. [The Tyee]
A new building on UBC’s campus emitted nearly-zero carbon emissions during construction. “Virtually every material, construction technique and design element of the project was chosen for its ability to lower or even capture carbon emissions.” [UBC News]
In an effort to lessen the film industry's dependence on loud, diesel-burning generators, Vancouver has installed several "clean energy kiosks" to provide electricity to crews working on productions near the waterfront. [CBC]
Wildlife Conservation
A 5-minute video showcases the research being done by WCS Canada’s Western Bat Program Team into probiotics as a means of helping bats face white-nose syndrome. [Wildlife Conservation Society Canada]
An abandoned pile of dirt in BC’s Upper Columbia Valley has been recognized and will be conserved as valuable habitat for endangered bank swallows. [Columbia Valley Pioneer]
Rebuilding northern leopard frog populations is a time-consuming task. Lea Randall recounts her year’s work reintroducing the frogs in the Creston Valley. [Wilder Institute]
Research Matters
Two new reports in the ELC’s environment and the constitution series examine interprovincial pollution and environmental impact assessment and the Constitution. [Environmental Law Centre]
Across Canada
Canada’s draft regulations to achieve zero-emission vehicle regulated sales targets should lower the cost of EVs and lead to lower overall vehicle costs for consumers. [Clean Energy Canada]
Around the World
The newly launched HealthcareLCA open-access database provides health care professionals with easy access to relevant information. [The Conversation]
ChatGPT needs a 500-ml bottle of water for a short conversation of roughly 20 to 50 questions and answers, depending on when and where the model is deployed. There’s potential to reduce AI’s water footprint by dynamically scheduling AI workloads and tasks at certain times and in certain locations. [The Markup]
DIY
Add native shrubs to your riverbanks and rain gardens to prevent erosion, soak up moisture, and create a habitat for birds and pollinators. [World Wildlife Federation]
Nature’s Wonders
Beavers may replace decommissioned dams and help restore water levels on Vancouver Island. [CBC]
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Photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/apmckinlay/27129741231
EcoFriendly West informs and encourages initiatives that support Western Canada’s natural environment through its online publication and the Nature Companion website/app. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, or subscribe by email.