Editor:
The Sunshine Coast is a beautiful place with a rich culture. The rural setting has many benefits: limited pollution and congestion, a modest pace and close proximity to nature. We feel safe and fortunate to live in small, friendly communities.
Many residents are eager to preserve this way of life for as long as possible. They have been labelled as an obstructionist minority: selfish if opposed to urbanization; dim-witted if not giddy at the prospect of a Walmart; irrational for advocating that special places like Gospel Rock should be for everyone.
These so-called radicals are accused of blocking progress. To me this term implies qualitative change - advancements in social, political and environmental justice. Human expansion does not improve the world. Living on a finite planet, our well-being cannot rely forever on maximizing growth. Other life forms suffer and resources are depleted.
Patrick Moore claims that most of the world's main environmental problems are solved. He pities the Sunshine Coast for being held hostage by a "lunatic fringe" yet has a history of controversial views and behaviour. His comparison of the campaign against invasive species to white supremacy is offensive.
Change is inevitable and sometimes positive but citizens have a right to determine their fate. According to the David Suzuki Foundation, in a recent poll, 88 per cent of Canadians wanted the environment protected, even if it slows economic growth.
Activists should continue to scrutinize initiatives that require zoning changes and ensure that policy makers and industry are held accountable to the public.
Richard Carton,
Sandy Hook
