A proposed shipping terminal expansion project in BC has returned to the media spotlight. The Roberts Bank Terminal 2 (RBT2) project would see an artificial island about the size of 150 football fields built in the heart of the Fraser River Estuary. This is expected to impact a number of species legally protected under Canada’s Species at Risk Act, such as Southern Resident Killer Whales. Experts within Environment and Climate Change Canada have also warned it would irreparably damage vital habitat for long-distance migratory birds like Western Sandpipers.
The project has been under federal environmental review since 2013. A decision on whether the project will go forward is likely to happen soon. Those opposed to the project have a final opportunity to express their views before the public comment period closes March 15.
Earlier this month, a group of scientists spoke up to underscore concerns about the ecological impacts of the project in a joint letter to Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Dr. David Bradley and Dr. Rémi Torrenta from Birds Canada were among those who signed on. Learn more in an article from The Narwhal or read the entire letter from scientists and related resources.
Killer Whale Photo: Adam Ernster
In this video, Dr. Rémi Torrenta, BC Projects Coordinator for Birds Canada, explains why he signed on to the letter and why Birds Canada opposes the RBT2 project.
Western Sandpiper Photo: Jason Puddifoot
Add your voice now
It’s not too late – you can ask the federal government to reject the RBT2 project before the public comment period closes March 15. In a couple of quick steps, you can send a letter to your Member of Parliament and Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, using this form: https://conserve.birdscanada.org/page/92991/action/1
Thank you for taking action to help birds!