A new video created by the David Suzuki Foundation is using a Langley infrastructure project to promote their Blue Dot campaign for stronger environmental legislation.
The video, posted on YouTube on Nov. 12, features an interview with Langley resident Linda Nash about environmental concerns surrounding the 216 Street Highway 1 Interchange.
The project, which is currently being constructed, will provide access to the Trans Canada Highway from 216 Street, and create another connection between Willoughby and Walnut Grove.
Nash, who lives near the interchange in Walnut Grove, has been vocal in her opposition to the project for many reasons, including concerns about air pollution exposure, noise and safety for children at nearby schools, particularly from heavy trucks.
“If you think of Langley as a microcosm for Canada, one has to ask themselves, how many other communities are being impacted in a similar way? In a health-related way?” Nash asked in the video.
READ MORE: David Suzuki Foundation creating film on 216 Street Interchange Project
According to bluedot.ca, around the world, more than 110 nations recognize the right to live in a healthy environment. Canada, however, is not one of them. Because of that, the foundation is campaigning for all levels of government to legally recognize the right to breathe clean air, drink clean water and eat safe food. So far, more than 160 municipalities in the country have joined, but the City and the Township of Langley have not.
“Countries that recognize the right to a healthy environment have reduced air pollution quicker than countries that don’t recognize that right,” environmental lawyer Dr. David Boyd said in the video.
“So that’s why people like myself, and Linda and the David Suzuki Foundation are putting our energy into this particular issue, because it is a change-maker for the health and well being of both Canadians and our environment.”
READ MORE: Work gets underway on controversial 216 Street Interchange
miranda@langleytimes.com
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