Exercise #4: Documentary Reflection

December 30, 2023 By: Jacob

Exercise #4: Documentary Reflection

Mainstream Media:

One current environmental topic within Squamish is the Woodfibre Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) plant (Pawson 2023). Despite the arguments about potential economic gains including local job creation, I am left feeling hesitant to support the Woodfibre LNG project. In addition to economic gains, I also acknowledge the promises to move toward cleaner energy; however, I, like many opponents, am concerned with the climate and energy tipping points we are in (Rothwell 2015). Although I support transitioning to renewable energy sources and am concerned with immediate environmental issues like that to marine life, I am also worried about the length/duration of the project, despite it being recognized as a “transition fuel.” The large investments of money, time, and infrastructure necessary to develop LNG projects will result in many years of construction and production to make it an economically worthwhile project. If we are investing time and money into LNG, another fear is that it will likely take away from developing sustainable alternatives like solar or wind power. As Rothwell 2015 says, by continuing down the path of LNG, there are long-term consequences and “If you make a commitment to those kinds of energy choices, you’ve locked us in for 40 or 50 years and it’s impossible to make the same advances with renewable energy” (Rothwell 2015). It feels like we are missing the opportunity to put resources into solutions that do less harm to the planet and help cut down on carbon emissions. The decision comes from my bigger commitment to protecting the environment and pushing for a more sustainable future.

Alternative Media

In relation to the Woodfibre LNG having an environmental impact, I have researched some information regarding other LNG pipelines within the media. The environmental impacts associated with the recent incidents in the Nord Stream Pipeline further highlight the potential risks of large-scale energy projects. The explosions and gas leaks highlight the consequences of disruptions to marine ecosystems and the potential release of greenhouse gases. This example shows how the environmental hazards are tied to energy infrastructure and highlight the need for stronger safety measures and sustainable energy solutions.

Civil disobedience in the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, demonstrates its impact beyond preventing a project (Guha 2023). Civic disobedience is not only about standing up against a project, it is about engaging in conversations, rallying strength and change through collective action, and creating awareness regarding environmental issues and Indigenous rights. 

Rothwell 2015 even though it might not always prevent the immediate progress of a project, its influence is like a “ripple effect” and it is seen in legal battles, public views, and ongoing discussions, contributing to the movement toward positive change (Rothwell 2015). In other words, this kind of activism not only challenges current practices and projects like Woodfibre LNG, but also contributes to the shifting foundation needed for long-term changes in policy and public awareness/opinion about environmental responsibility and social justice.

References 

Guha, Nayanika. “6 Years After Standing Rock, Native Tribes Still Fight Dakota Access Pipeline.” Truthout, 2023. Accessed 2023. https://truthout.org/articles/5-years-after-standing-rock-native-tribes-still-fight-dakota-access-pipeline/ 

Pawson, Chad. “Woodfibre LNG Project Near Squamish, B.C., Seeks Amendments to Environmental Assessment.” CBC, 2023. Accessed 2023. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/woodfibre-ling-squamish-b-c-environmental-assessment-changes-1.6737625 

Rothwell, Jerry, director, writer. “How to Change the World: The Revolution Will Not Be Organized.” Originally produced by British Film Institute, 2015. YouTube Video, 1:26:59. Posted by George Hunsicker Mar. 28, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-7saEKyThc.