IMPERFECT ADVOCATES VS HYPOCRITES | OUR LOVE OF ADVENTURE IS WHAT MOTIVATES US.
"You guys are a bunch of hypocrites". This is likely the most common comment we get and we totally understand why people would think this. We drive and/or fly to pursue adventures on lakes and streams, in forests and on mountains which generally requires gear such as canoes, skis, tents, rugged outdoor clothing etc. These are energy intense experiences.
FOSSIL FUELS DRIVE CLIMATE CHANGE
Fossil fuels have been a massive benefit over the last 140 years. Much of what we enjoy today, including our outdoor adventures, is possible because of fossil fuels. But, we now know, using fossil fuels is not without consequences. Serious consequences. Specifically, the C02 emissions that are driving climate change to dangerous levels, are directly related to burning fossil fuels. The science shows we need to limit warming to 2.0 degrees (ideally 1.5) to avoid the worst impacts of climate change including runway scenarios where we cross a tipping point that, regardless of the actions we take, warming (and its consequences) is locked in.
THE ANSWER IS RENEWABLES
The good news is we’re at a point in history where it’s less expensive to build utility scale renewable energy (wind and solar) than it is to build new fossil fuel infrastructure. That’s incredible! It’s cheaper to get energy from pointing a panel of glass at the sun than it is to drill down, pump up, refine, ship and burn fossil fuel for energy. Renewable energy by nature is emissions free and therefore does not contribute to climate change. Although the mechanics and finances of transitioning to renewable energy is very complicated and has become political, the principle of solving the climate crisis with this energy transition is beautifully simple.
IMPERFECT ADVOCACY
So….does it make us hypocrites for wanting to ensure we have clean air, clean water and a healthy planet? Perhaps in the eyes of some, but POW deeply believes in Imperfect Advocacy and creating a big tent movement to advocate for policy solutions to climate change. While it’s true we all need to live examined lives, at the end of the day our individual choices, such as the car we drive, the food we eat or the adventures we take can’t be scaled to reduce emissions. It must be done via policy that will accelerate the energy transition locally, provincially, nationally and globally. Our work is non partisan, science based and aims to ensure Canada meets its commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement which is signed by 196 countries including the largest emitters.
Call us hypocrites, but at the end of the day, it’s our love of adventure in nature that motivates us to dig deep in the fight to save and protect these places and experiences we love. Join us!
To learn more watch this trailer: AN IMPERFECT ADVOCATE