Greenspiration News & Events: Chernobyl - never again

Sun Apr 23 22:51:17 EDT 2023

IPCC: The world has no choice but to halve carbon output by 2030 – one chart shows the way forward

Wind, solar, energy efficiency, stopping deforestation and reducing methane emissions are the solutions.

The losers are nuclear power and carbon capture and storage (CCS) - each have just 10% of the potential of wind and solar, and at far higher cost.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/apr/20/down-to-earth-ipcc-emissions  

Germany’s Energy Revolution (‘Energiewende’) is working

When the Energiewende was legislated in 2000, the renewable share of the German power consumption market was just 6 %. In 2022, wind, solar and other renewables covered 54% of Germany’s power consumption. Meanwhile, electricity sector emissions have been cut by half since 1990. The plan is 80% renewables by 2030. The nuclear phaseout cleared the way for the renewable boom.

https://beyondnuclearinternational.files.wordpress.com/2022/08/bn_talking-points-5_germanys-energy-revolution.pdf 

Radioactive Wastes - the Questions Multiply – MUST WATCH

Canadian gem Dr. Gordon Edwards expertly explains what radioactive waste is, what the Canadian nuclear industry hopes to do with their deadly waste which needs to be isolated from the environment for 1 million years, and what the dangers of this plan are. Apr. 21, 2023, recording.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YzHT4c4WCc 

‘They’re destroying us’: Indigenous communities fear toxic leaks from Canada oil industry

A recent string of leaks from tailings ponds at tar sands operations in AB has once again drawn attention to the profound transformation Canada’s largest industry has had on the region – and the distrust that comes with it. “We’re not talking about compensation. I don’t want compensation. I want them off our traditional land."

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/apr/23/canada-indigenous-communities-fear-toxic-leaks-canada-oil-industry-tailings-ponds  

7 min. video interview on why investments in SMRs are a waste of money

Meanwhile, Canada and Ontario are pegging their hopes on this risky, high cost, unproven technology. https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/video/investing-in-small-modular-nuclear-reactors-is-a-waste-of-money-professor~2670141  

Uranium Must Remain in the Ground!

Every link in the nuclear chain causes irreparable damage to the environment and to human health. Millions of people worldwide suffer from the consequences of the civil and military nuclear industries, which are two sides of the same coin. The feminine perspective, which stresses the human right to life and health, and the indigenous perspective, which emphasizes a life in harmony with nature, are the driving forces to halt this destruction.

https://www.rosalux.de/en/publication/id/41673/uranium-is-also-a-feminist-issue/ 

Even a small increase in pollution raises risk for dementia

https://www.nationalobserver.com/2023/04/19/news/even-small-increase-pollution-raises-risk-dementia  

Wealthy Canadians and corporations should pay to save the planet

The rich are responsible for nearly half of all emissions while the poorest bear the brunt of climate change. By refusing to introduce new taxes on wealthy individuals and corporations, the burden will remain on the vulnerable.

https://www.taxfairness.ca/en/act/take-action/wealthy-canadians-and-corporations-should-pay-save-planet  

Climate diplomacy is hopeless, says author of How to Blow Up a Pipeline

Andreas Malm says he has no hope in ‘dominant classes’, and urges more radical approach to climate activism

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/apr/21/climate-diplomacy-is-hopeless-says-author-of-how-to-blow-up-a-pipeline-andreas-malm? 

How the Dutch Mastered Bike Parking at Train Stations

A decade ago, the Netherlands began building a national network of bicycle garages integrated with rail stations. Here’s how that investment has paid off.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-04-20/how-the-dutch-investment-in-bike-parking-paid-off  

Beyond Gas: How Ontario and Canada Can Go 100% Renewable

Recording of webinar with Dr. Mark Jacobson (17 min.) and Jack Gibbons (1:16:40)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obDrAgRs4pE

Wind and Solar Hit 12% of Global Power

Wind and solar are far and away the least expensive sources of electricity available today, leading to major increases in both. “In this decisive decade for the climate, it is the beginning of the end of the fossil age."

https://cleantechnica.com/2023/04/15/wind-solar-power-now-the-clear-champions-on-cost/

Now is the time for offshore wind power 

It's time to lift the moratorium and start environmentally sound development of wind projects on the Great Lakes. There is enough wind power at accessible sites in the lakes to meet 100% of Ontario’s electricity needs.

https://www.cleanairalliance.org/offshore-wind/

Our Mother Earth - Sultans of String featuring Duke Redbird - 3 min. video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwsfFgctFX0

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EVENTS

Making Progress on Electoral Reform

Mon. Apr. 24, 6:30 p.m. ET

Join a special webinar discussion with MPs from three different parties who are supporting a National Citizens' Assembly on Electoral Reform. Special guests: Green MP Mike Morrice, NDP MP Daniel Blaikie and Liberal MP Jenica Atwin. Each MP will talk about why this issue matters to them and how we can move the conversation forward. Hosted by Fair Vote Canada. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YzHT4c4WCc 

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Multigenerational Legacies of Chernobyl Disaster in Ukraine

Tues. Apr. 25, 1 p.m. ET

This webinar is held in commemoration of the 37th anniversary of Ukraine’s Chernobyl disaster of 26 April 1986. Ukrainian and international multidisciplinary experts will share their own experiences, examine cumulative and intergenerational effects of this devastating event and its aftermath, and reflect on lessons they have learned. This timely discussion will explore parallels between and meanings of Chernobyl, among other multigenerational past tragedies, and current threats in Ukraine and around the world. Ukrainian-English interpretation will be provided. Hosted by the International Center for the Study, Prevention and Treatment of Multigenerational Legacies of Trauma.

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wq__Uk6WQkCKOp_EhK5lnQ#/registration 

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Do We Need to Scale up Nuclear Power to Combat Climate Change? A Public Debate

Tues. Apr. 25, 5 - 7 p.m. ET

Hybrid event - in person at University of Ottawa AND online via zoom

The U of O's Centre for International Policy Studies is hosting a public debate with implications for a major question of our time: how will Canada respond to the climate crisis? The stage will feature moderator Patricia Fuller, University of Ottawa Senior Fellow and former Ambassador for Climate Change, in conversation with two high-profile champions on each side of the nuclear debate: Dr. Gordon Edwards, President of the Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility, and Dr. Chris Keefer, President of Canadians for Nuclear Energy.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/do-we-need-to-scale-up-nuclear-power-to-combat-climate-change-tickets-596055978477  

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Red Light for Nuclear Build Up

Tuesday, April 25, 10 am. ET 

Eternal Flame, Parliament Hill, Ottawa

Gathering at the eternal flame on Parliament Hill to remind our government that we have grave concerns about nuclear waste and the government's plans to expand nuclear reactors into communities across Canada. The Raging Grannies will join us for an anti-nuclear singalong. Signs will be provided, but you’re encouraged to bring your own too. Organized by the Council of Canadians Ottawa Chapter. Come help us get this issue on the evening news!

https://stop-smrs.weebly.com/not-nuclear.html 

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What Can You do to Green Canada’s Financial System?

Tues. April 25, 2 - 3 p.m. ET

Canada cannot achieve its climate goals without the full participation of the financial system. Canadians with bank accounts, pension funds and/or insurance policies all have a vested interest in aligning this system with climate safety. Learn what financial actors are already doing, what more needs to be done, the role for regulation, and what you can do.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/60232795-e8cf-41d6-8eb3-7b00f98d5397

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Addressing Environmental Racism in Canada

Tues. April 25, 7 – 8:30 p.m. ET

Extensive studies have demonstrated that predominantly Black, Indigenous and racialized communities are disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change and exposure to environmental degradation. This is called environmental racism. This pattern is a symptom of systemic racism and colonization in Canadian communities that diminishes relationships within creation. Learn more about how environmental racism manifests in Canada and how we can address it.

https://presbyterian.ca/justice/social-action/ecological-justice/addressing-environmental-racism/ 

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Chernobyl: 37th Anniversary

The true impacts of the 1986 nuclear disaster on people and the environment

https://beyondnuclearinternational.org/2018/04/22/chernobyl-facts-disaster/

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The Biggest Malpractice: How Hospitals Betray the Public Trust with Billions in Fossil Fuel Pension Investments

Wed. Apr. 26, 11 a.m. ET

In this report release we will document the levels of fossil fuel investments at major US healthcare institutions and how these investments contradict the “Calls to Action” to decarbonize from within the sector itself and how such investments directly contradict the Hippocratic oath at the heart of the healthcare profession.

https://stand-earth.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rUnEyi_bROGSXqAayEP9_g 

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Growing our Movements: a panel and fundraiser for the Groundswell Fund

Wed. Apr 26, 7 p.m. ET

Part conversation about redistributive justice and part fundraiser for Groundswell Community Justice Trust Fund, this is an invitation to learn about the power of grassroots movements, and a call to action to support them. Groundswell is trying to breathe some life into a conversation about money, and help grow progressive social movements that are independent and resourceful.

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8416802814100/WN_iQdLvEaURP6Ee1OhFlztaQ#/registration 

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The Destructive Cycle of Nuclear Power in Alaska, From Uranium Mining to Power Generation and Weapons Testing, and Nuclear Waste 

Wed. April 26, 4 p.m. ET 

Governor Dunleavy’s Administration is moving forward with proposed regulations on the siting of “microreactors.” There are serious health and safety concerns with micronuclear reactors, and they are a false solution for our energy needs and the climate crisis.

https://www.akaction.org/webinars/the-destructive-cycle-of-nuclear-power-in-alaska-from-uranium-mining-to-power-generation-and-weapons-testing-and-nuclear-waste/  

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Is New Nuclear a Smart Climate Solution?

Thur. Apr. 27, 7 - 8:30 p.m. ET

Watch online OR attend at the Ottawa Quaker Meetinghouse, 91-A Fourth Ave. Ottawa

As the nuclear industry declines worldwide due to an aging inventory, high costs, and increased security risks, the industry is now pegging its hopes on "small modular nuclear reactors" (SMRs) to save the day.

Since they are lower carbon emitting than fossil fuels, the Canadian gov't, as well as AB, SK, ON and NB provincial gov'ts, are all promising to spend billions on new nuclear to meet their climate commitments.

Why should Canadians be concerned about this new direction in energy policy? How do these new reactors compare with renewables on cost, reliability, danger, and security? Are there connections to nuclear weapons? Are there health concerns? And what are the impacts on First Nations?

Hear leading Canadian anti-nuclear voices:

- Dr. Gordon Edwards, Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility

- Dr. Dale Dewar, author of 'From Hiroshima to Fukushima to You – a primer on radiation and health'

- Candyce Paul, English River First Nation

- Angela Bischoff, Ontario Clean Air Alliance

All welcome. Free. ** This will be a hybrid event – both online and in person at the Ottawa Quaker Meetinghouse, hosted by the Peace and Social Concerns Committee of Ottawa Quakers. When you register, you will be prompted to state whether you'll join virtually or in person.**

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/is-new-nuclear-a-smart-climate-solution-tickets-605041444247 

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Mobile Chornobyl: Preventing Unnecessary Risks with Transportation of Nuclear Waste

Thur. April 27, 8 pm ET

In light of the toxic train disaster in East Palestine, Ohio that began on Feb. 3, 2023, radioactive waste specialist Kevin Kamps will provide updates on resistance to the unnecessary near-term launch of unprecedented, large-scale transportation of highly radioactive wastes. Irradiated nuclear fuel trucks, trains, and/or barges could impact tens of millions of Americans (and Canadians) in thousands of communities. Severe accidents, or intentional attacks, could result in a radioactive catastrophe near a densely populated urban center, in the agricultural heartland, into major drinking water supplies, or other locations of national significance. Even so-called “routine” shipments are like Mobile X-ray Machines That Can’t Be Turned Off, with their own impacts on public health.

https://beyondnuclear.org/neis-night-with-the-experts-mobile-chornobyl-preventing-unnecessary-risks-with-transportation-of-nuclear-waste-april-27-7pm-cst/ 

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Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival

April 27 to May 7

In cinemas throughout downtown Toronto and streaming online across Canada

Celebrate 30 years of outstanding stories and the filmmakers and audiences who have shared them with us.

https://hotdocs.ca/whats-on/hot-docs-festival?view=all  

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Lynx Man

Sat. Apr. 29, 8:30 p.m. ET

Scotia Bank Theatre, Toronto

Hannu, a Finnish pensioner devoted to saving the Eurasian lynx from extinction, becomes so immersed in the animals he tracks, photographs and leaves markings for that he finds himself becoming one of them.

https://hotdocs.ca/whats-on/hot-docs-festival/films/2023/lynx-man  

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Logging Algonquin: Documentary Screening and Discussion

Sun. Apr. 30, 4 - 6 p.m. ET

Revue Cinema, 400 Roncesvalles Avenue, Toronto

This short film asks the question "does logging belong in our modern-day park?" The film provides expert opinions while bringing the viewer down onto the forest floor as they follow a group of passionate environmentalists searching for the logging in the park and a researcher attempting to document the remaining old growth forest in Algonquin.

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/logging-algonquin-documentary-screening-and-discussion-tickets-603880652287 

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Earth Day is every day! Stories from the frontlines of life-protecting struggles to defend lands & water

Sun. Apr. 30, 4:30 p.m. ET

Amid the urgency of the climate crisis, Indigenous, Black and other racialized and marginalized communities are leading the way, defending lands, water, forests, clean air and climate justice. It puts them on a collision course with powerful companies, authorities, and economic interests who continue to put short term profits before human rights. Defenders are under attack but their courageous struggles continue. Hear indigenous land defenders from Honduras, Mexico and BC. 

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tuEu5x58QxiSVkf7Hz5L6g#/registration 

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International Workers Day 2023

Sunday, April 30, 1 pm

Rally at Nathan Phillips Square, March on Queen’s Park, Toronto

Organized by the Labour May Day Committee

mailto:May1LabourTO at gmail.com 

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Spirit-led: An Interfaith Call to Climate Action

Sun. April 30, 4 - 5:30 pm ET

Join EnviroMuslims, the Reform Jewish Community of Canada (RJCC) and For the Love of Creation for a joint webinar sharing in a circle of ritual and reflection on how our faith compels us to seek climate justice. We will be guided by Muslim, Jewish, Indigenous and Christian spiritual leaders. We hope this will be the beginning of an even broader sharing going forward.

https://secure.kairoscanada.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=324&cid=0

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For the best Canadian climate and energy news, visit and subscribe to the Energy Mix newsletter.

http://theenergymix.com/ 

Democracy Now Daily Show - global peace, justice and enviro news

https://www.democracynow.org/  

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Submissions, subscribes, unsubscribes, and comments: mailto:angela at cleanairalliance.org  

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