Sunday February 9, 2025 | SOOKE, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Sooke is planning to be more resilient to climate change with the support of provincial funding that will better prepare the community to withstand emergencies, says Dana Lajeunesse, MLA (Juan de Fuca-Malahat).
“We know the climate is changing here in B.C., and now is the time to take action to reduce our risk,” said Lajeunesse last week.
“This funding will help Sooke continue to plan ahead for climate adaptation,” said Lajeunesse.
The new MLA (formerly a District of Sooke municipal councillor) also emphasizes that since the forestry industry no longer supports the economy in Sooke that tourism leads the way for economic success of the region; that has been the case since around 2007.
Tourism relies on the natural beauty and outdoor accessibility of the region.
$150,000 in provincial funds:
The District of Sooke is receiving $150,000 for climate adaptation and natural hazard-risk assessment.
The District of Sooke has a Climate Action Plan that includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
“By inherently applying consideration for the environment, we will enhance the quality of life in Sooke – for generations to come. It will take all of us, working together, to reach this target,” the District states.
Much of this development has occurred while Maja Tait has been the mayor in Sooke.
Community Emergency Preparedness Fund:
Across B.C., 39 communities are receiving approximately $19 million for 46 local projects.
The projects will help reduce the impact of future climate disasters by addressing current vulnerabilities and by supporting informed planning and decision making.
The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) supports local governments and First Nations to better prepare for disasters, and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate in several categories.
The province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since the fund was established in 2017.
Approximately $300 million has been provided to local governments and First Nations through the CEPF for approximately 2,150 projects.
This includes approximately $197 million to support disaster-mitigation and climate-adaptation projects.
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NEWS SECTIONS: SOOKE REGION | LIVING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE