PREMIER ANNOUNCES REGIONAL COUNCILS ON CLIMATE ACTION

PENTICTON – More than 70 British Columbians from around the province have been selected as members of the Citizens’ Conservation Councils on Climate Action, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention.

“The Citizens’ Conservation Councils will help build a network of grassroots climate action throughout our province,” said Premier Campbell. “Every community and region in B.C. brings unique opportunities to meet the challenges of climate change. Over the coming months, the councils will develop creative and innovative ideas to inspire British Columbians to take personal actions at home, at work, and in their neighbourhoods.”

The Citizens’ Conservation Councils will advise government on the best ways to encourage individuals, local business and communities in their regions to learn more about climate change, participate in climate action initiatives, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The government has appointed seven Citizens’ Conservation Councils on Climate Action representing the following regions:

· Vancouver Island-Coast

· Lower Mainland-Southwest

· Thompson-Okanagan

· Kootenay

· Cariboo-Prince George

· Skeena-North Coast

· Northeast

The council members represent youth, seniors, municipal government, local business, First Nations, community groups, and educational institutions.

“It’s an honour to be part of the Citizens’ Conservation Councils along with so many others who share a passion for the environment,” said Northeast Council member and Dawson Creek Mayor Calvin Kruk. “Dawson Creek has made energy-efficient choices that are already benefiting our community. I look forward to sharing our successes with the council and working together to create a greener future for the Northeast and the province.”

“I am pleased to serve on the Thompson-Okanagan Council on Climate Action to help create a sustainable future for our region,” said Kelowna Mayor Sharon Shepherd. “The council provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about global warming and encourage people in every community to make environmentally-conscious choices in their daily lives.”

For more information about the Citizens’ Conservation Councils on Climate Action, please visit: www.LiveSmartBC.ca

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1 backgrounder(s) attached.
Media contact:	Bridgitte Anderson Press Secretary Office of the Premier 604 307-7177	David Haslam Communications Manager Climate Action Secretariat 250 387-5550

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