OTTAWA -- Since its inception in 1974, the UN World Environment Day has become a global platform for public outreach that is celebrated in over 100 countries. The goal of the initiative is to encourage people to do something to take care of the Earth. This year’s theme is Air Pollution.

“We’re in a climate emergency, so this year’s theme is appropriate because air pollution and climate change are inextricably linked,” said Green Party Leader Elizabeth May (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands). “In addition to driving the climate crisis, burning fossil fuels is also a major source of air pollutants.

“It’s disingenuous for politicians to continue threatening that serious ‘job losses’ and ‘disastrous economic impacts’ will be the result of transitioning to a green economy. In fact, there are as many as 7,700 deaths each year due to air pollution in Canada, which is a greater loss, and makes moving to alternative energy an emergency.”

Clean Energy Canada recently reported that: Canada’s clean energy sector employed 298,000 Canadians as of 2017 and that number is growing by 4.8 per cent every year - a third faster than Canada’s economy as a whole (3.6 per cent).

“The Green Party of Canada will strengthen air quality standards across the country which will help combat greenhouse gas emissions,” added Ms. May.

"Climate change represents an existential threat,” said Paul Manly (MP, Nanaimo-Ladysmith). “I’m proud to stand behind the Green Party’s comprehensive climate plan and aggressive targets to reduce GHGs by 60 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and zero emissions by 2050. It’s the political courage we need to ensure that our children and grandchildren have a future that is safe, secure and sustainable.”

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For more information or to arrange an interview contact:

Rosie Emery

Press Secretary

613-562-4916x206

rosie.emery@greenparty.ca