A group of five former leaders of a committee that advises the Canadian government on endangered species has released a public letter expressing worries about potential modifications to the Species At Risk Act. They argue that these changes could result in the deliberate extinction of at-risk species in the country. Over 600 species are currently protected under this law, but proposed adjustments could undermine its effectiveness, according to a recent statement issued by the scientists.
These experts, who previously chaired the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), addressed the letter to the government last month. COSEWIC is an independent advisory body responsible for evaluating species at risk of disappearing and recommending their inclusion in endangered species legislation.
The group decided to make the letter public to raise awareness among Canadians and prevent them from unknowingly contributing to the intentional extinction of wildlife in the country. This action comes amid the government’s review of environmental regulations, including the Species At Risk Act, which is part of broader efforts to streamline approval processes for major projects.
Recently, two federal discussion papers suggested allowing major projects to proceed without undergoing a thorough review and exempting certain projects from the required “jeopardy test” if deemed to be in the national interest. This proposed change has been heavily criticized by David Green, a biologist and former COSEWIC chair, who emphasized the importance of jeopardy tests in safeguarding endangered species.
Additionally, the proposed amendments would grant authorities the ability to create “federal economic zones” for pre-approving industrial developments. This could lead to expedited approvals for projects considered to be in the national interest, such as pipelines, without comprehensive impact assessments.
Of particular concern is a proposed West Coast oil pipeline, which could have severe consequences for species like the southern resident killer whale and Chinook salmon. These animals and their habitats in the Salish Sea could be significantly impacted by the pipeline, potentially leading to irreparable harm to their populations.
The scientists have highlighted the urgent need for reconsideration of these changes, emphasizing the irreversible consequences of species loss. The government’s response to the letter and the fate of the proposed amendments remain pending, with further public consultations and legislative actions expected in the coming months.
