Metro Vancouver Saw 15 times More Heat Wave Deaths than Estimated During Unprecedented Alert
In light of the recent heat wave in British Columbia, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on how health communications could have been more effective to the public.
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou Loses Court Bid to Enter New Evidence
After a B.C. Supreme Court ruling last week stopped Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou from submitting new evidence in her own extradition case, SPPGA Professor Paul Evans says that more are recognizing that the current government approach is not working.
China’s 100-Year-Old Communist Party Has More Members than Most Countries Have People
The Chinese Communist Party celebrates its centenary this month. Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; History) speaks on the party’s growth into one the biggest political parties in the world–with more than 95 million members–and what China’s leader is doing about it.
Nuclear Energy Will Not Be the Solution to Climate Change
Read SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane’s op-ed on why nuclear energy cannot be a near- or medium-term solution to climate change, given the urgency needed to reduce carbon emissions, as well as economic and safety concerns.
Shelve Nuclear Power, Go for Cleaner Alternatives
Read MPPGA alumni Edwin Edou’s (Simons Award 2020 Recipient) op-ed on the future potential of nuclear energy in Kenya, and why he believes that investing in utility-scale solar and wind energy is more sustainable and cost-effective.
Nuclear Energy and the Climate Change Response
Catastrophic accidents, production of radioactive waste with no proper depository and politicization of nuclear technology is why Professor Ramana is skeptical about the viability of small modular reactors (SMRs) (32:34 mark).
‘Black Swan’ Heat Wave Brings Record-Breaking Power Demand
The consequences of extreme weather events on energy grids are long-term, warns Professor Milind Kandlikar (SPPGA; Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability). Utility providers will have to consider how to cope with high-energy usage in future extreme weather, he adds (paywall).
UBC Medicine Launches Response to TRC Call to Action, Apologizes for Harm Caused to Indigenous People
Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science) gave a sobering statement about the closeness of these residential schools and other colonial systems to modern times during a formal apology by UBC Medicine for the harm caused to Indigenous populations.
What’s Behind the U.S. War on Science?
In an op-ed for SAPIENS, Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti reflects on the progress the Biden administration has made on restoring American trust in science by comparing it with Finland’s approach in governance and trust.
Anti-China Sentiment Is Becoming Anti-Chinese Prejudice in Canada
“Criticism crosses a threshold when it sensationalizes Chinese actions and stigmatizes individuals or groups with connections to China.” Read the op-ed Professor Paul Evans co-authored on navigating tensions between Canada and China.
Whose Democracy Counts When Global Social Media Rules Are Set?
Read the latest op-ed Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) wrote on how governments, platforms, and civil society respond to how social media affects democracy in multiple countries.
In Japan, South Korea and China, It Is Clear That Aging Will Have a Negative Impact on Growth
Japan, Korea, and China must urgently adapt their economic and social model to address the implications of a rapidly aging population, warns Professor Yves Tiberghien (SPPGA Faculty Associate; Political Science) (paywall) (French).
Setting the Stage for Wars During a Global Pandemic
In these unprecedented times, military spending, armed conflicts, and modernizing of nuclear arsenals continue as usual. The handful of nations holding these weapons “buck the international desire for nuclear disarmament”, Professor Ramana says.
Reconciliation Requires More than Shock and Outrage — It Takes Action
After the discovery of 215 Indigenous children on the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School, Adjunct Professor Andrea Reimer writes a letter to those in elected office to say reconciliation requires more than words – it takes action.
Salad Will Survive Climate Change. But at What Cost?
Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) believes that finding a balance between nutritional value and widespread access is critical to solving food insecurity. Even if fewer people globally go hungry, nutrition deficiencies remain high, he adds.
Canada Must Recognize Our Right to a Healthy Environment
In an op-ed for the National Observer, Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) and others discuss Bill C-28, the first federal recognition that all people in Canada have the right to a healthy environment, as well as the bill’s limitations.
China Repackages Its History in Support of Xi’s National Vision
Professor Timothy Cheek (SPPGA; History; IAR Director) gave comments on how the recent CCP campaign to repackage its history serves as a guide to how leaders, cadres, and ordinary citizens should act and talk in public (subscription).
World’s Nuclear Arms on High Operational Alert — & Ready to Strike
SPPGA Professor Ramana gave comments on the recent report released by International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), specifically how political power is wielded by nuclear weapon-producing companies to turn profits during COVID-19.
China Nuclear Drama May Be Less Alarming than the Politics Behind It
Nuclear expert Professor Ramana gave comments regarding the Taishan Unit 1 reactor’s recent gas leak. The EDF’s decision to consult the U.S. government suggests concern with accessing critical information about the gas leak, he says (paywall).
Digital Technologies: Building Global Trust
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) was a featured as an expert panelist at the Digital Technologies: Building Global Trust as part lf the Thnk20 (T20) Spring Roundtables co-hosted by CIGI.
Developer Pulls Plug on Keystone XL Pipeline
SPPGA Professor George Hoberg discusses with Global News Morning BC what the cancellation of the contentious crude oil pipeline project means for hopes of a net-zero future.
Khurelsukh Cruises to Victory in Mongolian Presidential Race
In a co-authored piece for The Diplomat, SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes and others reflect on the tumultuous events that have led to Khurelsukh’s presidential victory.
Can Joe Biden Kick-Start Stalled Progress on Ocean Conservation?
With the WTO and Biden administration prioritizing environmental concerns, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) is optimistic that an agreement to ban harmful fisheries can be reached in the near future.
It’s Time for Canada to Reconcile Indigenous Ocean Issues
In a co-authored op-ed for The Globe and Mail, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) and others empathize how aligning ocean management partnership and Indigenous worldviews plays a crucial part in Canada achieving its UNDRIP responsibility.
Pipeline Workers Are Scaring Indigenous Elders Away from Their Own Lands
Indigenous people are experiencing a rise in harassment and intimidation cases amid pipeline battles, but Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science; FNIS) notes that tensions caused by lack of consultation between residents and governments is nothing new.
Covid-19 Variant of Concern B.1.1.7 Has a New Name: Alpha. Will It Stick?
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) applauds the WHO’s decision to rename the emerging variants of COVID-19 using the Greek alphabet, but still wonders if place-based naming will continue to be used with variants of concern.
Canada’s Nuclear Ambitions — Linchpin of a Carbon-Free Future or a Path to ‘Greenwash’ Tar Sands?
Alberta’s push to build small modular reactors (SMRs) is a ‘greenwashing’ solution for the tar sands, says SPPGA Professor Ramana. He cites rising costs, long approval periods and unknown risks as reasons why SMRs are not viable solutions to reduce emissions.
Committee Witnesses Call for B.C.’s Per-vote Subsidy to Be Preserved past 2022
Professor Gerald Baier (SPPGA Faculty Associate; CSDI; Political Science) testified that public financing for political parties supports the role they play in the political process. Professor Baier backed increasing the per-vote subsidy over time but expressed concern over the effect a steady flow of effortless cash could have on the way parties operate.
B.C. Couple Books 3rd Wedding Date, in Spite of New Covid-19 Restart Plan
In response to B.C. easing restrictions, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) suggests that mental health resources should also be included. This can help people who struggle with social interaction after a year of quarantine, she adds.
U.S. Experts to Trudeau: Your Nuclear Dream May Turn Nightmare
Canada’s investment in new nuclear technology has experts SPPGA Professor Ramana and SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane concerned. Both professors cite unknown costs, lack of transparency, and toxic waste as key reasons for their reservations.
Stories, Statistics, and Authenticity in Health Communications
In a piece for the Social Science Research Council, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) explains the fixation on statistics during Covid-19. While used as a main tool of health communication, statistics can also obscure the inequitable effects on racialized populations.
Alberta Calls for National Security Rules for Academics to Prevent Intellectual Property Transfer to China
SPPGA Professor Paul Evans gave comments on the Albertan government’s decision to suspend its four major universities from pursuing partnerships with people or organizations linked to Beijing or the Chinese Communist Party (paywall).
The Time and Space for Earthly Reckoning Is Here and Now
“This book provides a convincing case that future thinking, time-literacy, and an engagement with deep-time is highly important.” Read the latest book review by Martin Gren on SPPGA Postdoctoral Fellow Vincent Ialenti’s “Deep Time Reckoning.”
Chickpea of the Sea
With heavy carbon-intensive practices impacting the fishing industry, plant-based alternatives could be the future of seafood. Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) warns that we need to take responsibility now lest ocean biodiversity disappears.
What Can Canadian Law Makers Draw from the New UK Online Safety Bill?
In an op-ed for CIGI regarding what Canadian lawmakers can learn from the U.K.’s new Online Safety Bill, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) believes that transparency reports and their metrics should not create perverse incentives to silence the very communities whom the legislation is designed to help.
Countries Are Scrambling for Vaccines. Mongolia Has Plenty
At a time when vaccine supply is uncertain, Mongolia now has enough for its entire adult population thanks to deals with Russia and China. China’s shipment of 4 million Covid-19 vaccines could be part of a longer game, says SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes (subscription).
The Right to Breathe: Landmark Legal Case a Fight for South African Children Harmed by Coal’s Deadly Air
“The pollution in Mpumalanga is just one example of the devastating impact of air pollution on children.” Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) intervenes in a landmark legal case in South Africa as a friend of the court.
Citizen Lawsuit Seeks Court’s Help in Battle for Clean Air in Jakarta
Jakartans are joining a citizen lawsuit against the government to force officials to address the city’s grave air pollution. Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) submits a brief in support, pointing out that air pollution is responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths in Indonesia each year (Subscription).
Can Better Communication Curb Vaccine Hesitancy?
On the latest episode of Capital Daily, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History), shares how rethinking vaccine hesitancy, institutionalizing health communications and understanding accessibility is key to moving forward in Covid-19. (24:38 mark)
Plastics Manufacturers Seek to Quash Toxic Designation in Court
Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment) comments on plastics manufacturers taking the federal government to court after Ottawa designated their products as toxic (Subscription).
How Ashish Jha Became Network TV’s Everyman Expert on Covid
“Once you’re a fixture on TV, the odds of getting invited back for something beyond your expertise are quite good.” Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on Ashish Jha’s presence as an everyman expert in the media.
InvestigateWest: Can Oregon Democrats Learn From British Columbia’s Carbon Tax?
Professor George Hoberg gave comments on the appeal of the B.C. carbon tax, especially how it benefitted the business sector and individuals.
Avi Lewis to Run for Federal NDP in West Vancouver-Area Riding
The federal riding of West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky country is a ‘Liberal sweet spot.’ Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) comments on the political trends of Avi Lewis’ chosen riding.
Covid-19: Fraser Health Becomes “Flexible, Agile and Adaptable” To Cool Hot Spots
Distinguishing between vaccine hesitancy and lack of access is important, notes Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Communication to explain the process of registering for a vaccine and booking a shot could ease confusion, she adds.
Land-Use Change Has Affected ‘Almost a Third’ of World’s Terrain Since 1960
“Land-cover change is really, really dynamic,” Professor Navin Ramankutty (SPPGA; IRES) gave comments on new estimates of how much humans have changed the Earth’s land surface.
Covid-19: B.C. Pushes Vaccine Registration as Only 260,000 Are Signed up Who Haven’t Had Jab
Data on age groups that have been vaccinated could encourage people to register for their vaccine, says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Yet, the B.C. government continues to be criticized for its lack of transparency of Covid-19 data.
Covid-19 Gender Gap: B.C. Women Are Getting Vaccinated at Higher Rates than Men
Gender disparity in B.C. vaccination rates may not be due to vaccine hesitancy or anti-vaccine attitudes, says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History). Figuring out if the disparity is about access to information is crucial, she adds.
‘There Is Nothing More Deeply Colonial’: No Indigenous People Were Consulted for UBC’s 2021/22 Budget
Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science) expressed her disappointment that the UBC Finance Committee finalized its 2021/2022 budget without consulting any Indigenous persons. This should be the last UBC budget that does its business this way, she adds.
Peru’s Upcoming Presidential Election Is Really a Referendum on Its Troubled Constitution
In an op-ed for The Washington Post, Professor Max Cameron (UBC CSDI Director on leave; Political Science) and doctoral student Paolo Sosa Villagarcia analyze the upcoming election for Peru. While a Venezuelan-style authoritarianism is not likely, democracy can still be undermined.
If South Asia’s Pandemic Isn’t Addressed as a Whole, India’s Covid-19 Crisis Could Be Just the Beginning
Professor Veena Sriram (SPPGA; SPPH) and Professor Sara Shneiderman (SPPGA; Anthropology) release an article to address the escalating crisis in South Asia and how there is a need for Canada and its South Asian community to build on existing efforts to present a united fight against the pandemic.
WTO Deal ‘Doable’ to Stop Subsidies That Lead to Over-Fishing
A study by Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) was cited in a piece about how a deal by the WTO could be in reach to curb over-fishing.
More Seats Likely as B.C. NDP Proposes Changes to Electoral Riding Rules
The Liberals respond to a proposed bill by the B.C. NDP that would allow the creation and elimination of ridings across the province. Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director) comments at The Vancouver Sun.
UBC Policy Professor Calls for Politicians to Take Accountability for B.C.’s COVID Data Leak
News 1130 turns to Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) days after the province’s leaked COVID reports made the rounds. It may be good, she says, for politicians to be more transparent in their communications.
Plan to Import Nuclear Waste Raises Larger Questions about Plans to Deal with Domestic Nuclear Waste
Following news that former prime minister Jean Chrétien was part of a secret project to set up a radioactive nuclear waste repository, officials have declared that the proposal is dead. But Professor Ramana and Kerrie Blaise say that the proposal raises ethical questions about moving nuclear waste or producing it in the first place (Subscription).
Covid-19: B.C. Physicians Say Vaccine Is Safe for Pregnant Women, Young Teens
“Vaccine hesitancy can be combated through education and a two-way conversation between health officials and the public.” Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on the importance of communication to alleviate vaccine hesitancy.
Vaccine Hesitancy in a Time of the Second Dose
Following Health Canada’s announcement that Pfizer vaccines are safe for young people between 12- 15, CBC Radio interviews Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) on vaccine hesitancy.
Women Suffer Most When Disaster Strikes
“Women are up to 14 times more likely to die or be injured following a disaster.” MPPGA students Brayden Pelham, Erica Steele, Stephen Patenaude and Victoria Ker raise the question: What should we be doing differently in Canada to reduce the gender imbalance when future disasters strike? (Subscription).
Alberta Vows to Curb University’s Research Ties to China
Professor Paul Evans says although Canadian security agencies have identified some concerns, research collaboration arrangements with China are widely valued and facilitate advanced research and training.
Do Not Book: British Columbians Asked Not to Double up on First Dose of Covid-19 Vaccine
In a glitch of the B.C. vaccine registration system, many of the 200,000 B.C. residents who received an AstraZeneca jab are receiving invites through the central registry to book a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments on this story.
Gabriel Yiu: Why Are Chinese Canadians Divided on the Uyghur Genocide?
The ‘Xinjiang Documentation Project,’ a collaborative resource by SPPGA and Simon Fraser University’s Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies was mentioned in a piece for the Georgia Straight on the divergence of opinions on the Uyghur genocide.
Avoid Shaming, Build Trust to Combat Vaccine Hesitancy, Southern Manitoban Pastor Says
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) gave comments on the importance of going local when fighting vaccine hesitancy. People are more likely to trust their community members than an authority figure who they don’t know, she says.
CTV National News for May 1: Critical Capacity
As hospitals in Canada reach their limits, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) comments on the need for patching the gaps in provincial I.T. and vaccination booking systems (segment starts at 4:50).
When Might the Wait Time Between Shots of Two-dose Covid-19 Vaccines Be Reduced?
As Canada’s vaccine supply is set to increase in coming weeks, some experts, including Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History), discuss the possibility of shorter intervals between shots.
Media Mentions: COVID-19 Crisis in India
India, one of the world’s most populous countries, is currently suffering a major setback in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. Learn more with comments from Professor Veena Sriram (School of Public Policy and Global Affairs; School of Population and Public Health).
B.C.’s ‘New and Innovative’ Pop-up Vaccine Clinics Halted amid Backlash and Mea Culpas
After an incident involving pop-up vaccine clinics that left hundreds of people without vaccines, B.C. health authorities are facing backlash. Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) comments on the province’s bungled communications strategy.
Le Canada Mise sur le Nucléaire pour Réduire les GES
To meet its goal of climate neutrality by 2050, Canada has invested more than $75 million into the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). Professor Ramana weighs in on the conversation (French).
The Latest on the Cullen Commission
It’s been a week of high-profile appearances by senior BC politicians at the Cullen Commission that’s looking into money laundering in the province. We hear from Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) on the proceedings.
She Was Nervous to Get Vaccinated, but Winnipeg Woman Is Now Encouraging Others to Get Their Shot
After a woman shares why she got vaccinated despite her initial hesitancy, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) emphasizes the importance of showing people that vaccinations are about protecting the community as a whole.
Learning During the Pandemic in Nepal
With limited access to reliable internet and devices in Nepal, MPPGA students Boyd Hayes, Nabila Farid, and Riya Sirkhell, and UBC Research Assistant Ujjwal Neupane discuss programs that teach parents about technologies for remote learning.
Doug Ford Apologizes
After Doug Ford’s apology and some of Ontario’s new restrictions rolled back, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) discusses how the provincial government can change its approach to pandemic communications. (13:10 mark)
Mongolia’s President Tries to Ban Its Ruling Party
The Mongolian president’s recent decision to outlaw the Mongolian’s People’s Party (MPP) for allegedly militarizing the state to entrench power is an overblown claim, says SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes.
What’s Gone Wrong in Canada
“A year ago, Justin Giovannetti left Canada to join his fiancée (and The Spinoff) in New Zealand. Today, his home country is confronting another debilitating wave of Covid-19.” He speaks to Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) about the lack of a national response from Canada.
Former B.C. Premier Christy Clark Says Government Didn’t Alert Her to Money-laundering Spike until 2015
Christy Clark will testify Tuesday at the official inquiry “investigating the causes and impact of B.C.’s money laundering problem over the past decade”. Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) was featured in Yahoo News.
Grappling with Parliament Limiting His Powers, Mongolian President Moves to Dissolve Ruling Party
“Political shenanigans ahead of a June presidential election in Mongolia have taken a new turn,” say SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes, Bulgan Batdorj and Marissa Smith. Read more on how said political maneuvers could threaten Mongolian democracy.
‘War Means Blood’: Can a Treaty Stop Latin American Activists Being Killed?
A treaty aiming to protect activists in Latin America could be a “life-saving game changer” according to Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES; UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment).
Petits Réacteurs Nucléaires: Que Fera-t-On des Déchets
SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane speaks on the feasibility of small modular nuclear reactors and waste management in wake of New Brunswick’s plan for deployment of SMRs (Article in French).
Moving Canada’s Blue Economy out of the Shallows
The global ocean economy has the potential to grow to $3 trillion by 2030, according to Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries). Yet, Canada’s blue economy lags greatly behind due to declines in wild stocks & salmon farming.
Japan: UN Experts ‘Deeply Disappointed’ by Decision to Discharge Fukushima Water
Three independent UN human rights experts, including Professor David Boyd (SPPGA; IRES) expressed deep regret over Japan’s decision to discharge potentially radioactive Fukushima nuclear plant water into the ocean, impacting millions across the Pacific.
‘We Face Very Tough Challenges.’ How Mongolia Typifies the Problems Posed to Small Countries by China’s Rise
Former President Elbegdorj has turned into one of China’s harshest critics in no small part due to Beijing’s recent efforts to curb Mongolian language and culture in Inner Mongolia. SPPGA Professor Julian Dierkes comments on Mongolia’s economic entanglement with China.
Why We Need to Change the Narrative on Outdoor Transmission
“From a biological standpoint, the ventilation in open outdoor spaces is incredibly potent, and leads to rapid dispersion of respiratory particles associated with COVID transmission,” says Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) in a co-written story about outdoor activity during the pandemic.
Former NRC Chair Questions Economic Feasibility of New Nuclear in US
“Without further aid from Congress and the White House, the prospects for the U.S. nuclear industry will dwindle in the face of cheaper resources that are getting built faster than new nuclear generators,” says SPPGA Director Allison Macfarlane.
Media Mentions: Professor Sheryl Lightfoot Appointed United Nations Representative on Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Professor Sheryl Lightfoot (SPPGA; Political Science; First Nations & Indigenous Studies) was recently appointed as the North American member on the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP). Read more about the appointment and related media mentions.
Government Response to COVID-19 Surge. Single-Use Plastic Pollution
On the BC Today Podcast, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) discusses the benefits and minimal costs of banning single use plastics, and how it should be implemented at the municipal and national levels.
Criticism Over B.C.’s Social Media Communication
“We don’t engage in as many channels as we should to reach people with clear and consistent information.” Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) speaks on the limited social media messaging the B.C. government provides in regards to COVID-19.
China’s Gone Fishing
China is the world’s largest exporter of seafood – and its largest consumer. After decades of overfishing, the nation is now looking for seafood in open and contested waters. Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & UBC Oceans) has more.
SMRs Are a Bad Investment for New Brunswick
SPPGA Professor Ramana gave comments on how refurbishing the Mactaquac Dam and utilizing renewable energy infrastructure is a more viable solution than investing in small modular reactors (SMRs) (paywall).
B.C. Premier Backtracks on Blaming Young People for Rise in COVID-19 Cases
Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; UBC Department of History) cautions that placing the blame for the rise in COVID cases on young people could discourage them from getting tested and affect the ability to fight the pandemic in the long-term.
Carbon Tax Victory No Green Light for ‘Massive Expansion’ of Federal Powers, Some Legal Experts Say
Professor Gerald Baier (CSDI Acting Director; Political Science) believes the establishment of a national minimum price on carbon should be taken with caution, as this is the first time the federal government has used the “Peace, Order, and Good Government (POGG)” clause since the 1980s.
Why Disease Names Matter
In an op-ed for The Globe and Mail, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA; History) explains how Covid-19 has fallen into a long history of place-based monikers when it comes to naming a pandemic, and how to pre-empt and combat future stigmatization.
Seafood Trawl Fishing May Release as Much Carbon as Air Travel
In response to a study that suggests that seafloor trawl fishing releases as much carbon as air travel, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) adds that we are putting too much pressure on our natural systems.
Two Canadians Detained by China Appear in Court (BC) (Cantonese)
As Michael Spavor awaits his verdict, SPPGA Prof Paul Evans comments on the possibility of being put into the broader Chinese prison system, which would simplify visitations.
The Surprise Catch of Seafood Trawling: Massive Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA; Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) emphasizes the importance of tackling the newfound source of carbon emissions from bottom trawling, biodiversity loss and seafood supplies together, given their immense pressure on our natural systems.
Manitoba Campaign Aims to Combat COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy
With Manitoba’s vaccine persuasion campaign underway, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) that the way myths and facts are presented could lead to further misinformation and hesitation around COVID-19 vaccinations.
Bait and Switch: Fish Fraud Rampant Worldwide, New Study Shows
After analysis of mislabeled seafood in various countries, Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) says that the worst offenders are those who purposely sell low-value fish in place of more expensive species.
Trial in China for Michael Spavor to Start Friday; Kovrig’s to Begin Monday
SPPGA Professor Paul Evans was quoted in an article regarding the upcoming trials of Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig.
The Human Right That Benefits Nature
As an advocate of the human right to a healthy environment, Professor David Boyd (SPPGA & UBC Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability) says that recognizing the right is “a catalyst for better actions” and calls for its recognition at the UN level.
Revealed: Seafood Fraud Happening on a Vast Global Scale
Professor Rashid Sumaila (SPPGA & Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries) discusses “fish laundering” and the economic incentives of selling low-value fish in place of more expensive species, which is often linked to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing fleets.
COVID-19: Radio Station at SFU Temporarily Suspends Program Linked to Website with Pandemic Conspiracy Theories
After a program from an SFU radio station was suspended, Professor Heidi Tworek (SPPGA & UBC Department of History) emphasizes that early and accessible response by health officials is the key to reducing COVID-19 misinformation and conspiracy theories.