Skip to content

LETTER – UVic law community demands climate justice

web1_240314-snm-lt-sue-big-oil-sig_1

The undersigned, 58 members of the University of Victoria Faculty of Law community, express deep concern about climate change and inadequate government action. This letter, by UVic Environmental Law Club students, implores the Capital Regional District to endorse the Sue Big Oil Campaign.

Sue Big Oil, a class-action lawsuit by West Coast Environmental Law, aims to hold major oil companies accountable for worsening the climate crisis. These “Big Oil” companies, the largest emitters in British Columbia, must bear financial responsibility for the situation they’ve perpetuated and profited from.

The climate crisis has damaged the province’s infrastructure, causing significant financial burdens for local governments. The 2023 wildfire season cost the government $966 million, and the 2024 season is predicted to be more expensive. Local governments need $5.3 billion annually to address climate change, with the South Island particularly vulnerable.

Canadian law mandates corporations to mitigate the harms of their products. Similar to Big Tobacco, Big Oil spreads misinformation and opposes climate action. Joining the Sue Big Oil Campaign holds these corporations accountable and eases the strain on the public purse.

The Sue Big Oil campaign asks municipalities to pledge $1 per resident, totalling $439,950 for the entire CRD. This modest investment relative to existing climate costs and the CRD’s 2024 budget of $724 million enables local governments to address climate justice concerns and signal opposition to Big Oil’s irresponsible practices.

We applaud View Royal for supporting this cause and urge other CRD municipalities to join. Sue Big Oil is crucial for holding Big Oil accountable and securing funds to address climate change impacts.

UVic Environmental Law Club

Saanich