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Efforts by Canada in Combating Greenwashing are Yielding Successful Results

In response to Canada's Bill C-59, Pathways Alliance erased its web content amid a crackdown on climate misinformation, marking a shift towards greater corporate accountability.

Canadian Organizations Scrub Websites Amid Climate Misinformation Crackdown

With the recent pushback against environmental misinformation in Canada, the Pathways Alliance, a group of the country’s leading fossil fuel companies, has erased the content from their website and social media platforms. The decision was prompted by Bill C-59, an amendment to Canada’s Competition Act, necessitating companies to provide evidence for their environmental claims. A brief statement was all that remained.

Leah Temper, Health and Economic Policy Program Director at the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, referred to this move as a possible turning point for corporate accountability in Canada. She noted that Bill C-59’s effect on truth in advertising can already be seen, even before it has officially passed.

Temper remarked, “Companies can currently make any environmental claim they please with absolute impunity. It’s a wild west.” The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that disinformation regarding the environment and climate change is a key obstacle to enforcing robust enough climate policies to prevent the situation from worsening.

The Pathways Alliance, among other groups, had already been under investigation by the Competition Bureau before the introduction of the new rule. However, this is not the only initiative aimed at combating greenwashing and climate disinformation. Environmental organizations and politicians have been submitting complaints to the Competition Bureau, filing lawsuits, and proposing new legislation to alleviate these problems for over two years.

Some significant initiatives include:

    • NDP MP Charlie Angus introduced a private members bill in February that seeks to prohibit deceptive fossil fuel advertising, a strategy similar to those used against tobacco ads in the 1990s.
    • The federal Competition Bureau is presently conducting various investigations into greenwashing allegations against resource extraction companies and industry groups, including examining the Pathways Alliance’s net zero claims.
    • In March, B.C. residents and environmental groups filed a lawsuit against FortisBC over alleged greenwashing of its gas products.
    • Last month, a leaked document revealed that Ad Standards, Canada’s industry organization for ad regulation, ruled against misleading advertisements promoting liquified natural gas by the pro-oil-and-gas group Canada Action. However, Ad Standards lacks enforcement powers and its final decisions remain confidential.

The decision by Pathways Alliance to erase its website might be an indication that greenwashing crackdown efforts are proving to be effective, according to Temper. She stressed on the urgency of this shift, stating, “Significant decisions about our energy futures are being made daily. Greenwashing is specifically designed to hinder this energy transition.”

Original Story at www.nationalobserver.com

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



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