Dear editor,
I would like to see one of our most valuable resources protected. I used to be proud and grateful of our good tap water after travelling much of the world. Now I am deeply concerned and disturbed over the rising levels of chlorine and number of boil water advisories we have yearly now, in the Comox Valley. It bothers me that a private logging company can over-log in our watershed without any consequence. An environmental bill of rights that recognizes, protects and fulfils our right to a healthy environment, including our right to clean water, would provide clear guidelines for government, industry and citizens to manage resources, economic development and the health and well-being of communities in ways that are transparent, predictable and sustainable.
Let’s reverse the damage and protect our valuable resource.
Water is a fundamental human right. Canada joined the international consensus and recognized the right to water at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in 2012. We must live up to that commitment here at home.
It’s time for the federal government to implement the right to clean water in Canada by passing an environmental bill of rights that respects, protects and fulfils our right to a healthy environment, including the right to clean water.
Lili Zsoldos
Courtenay