I work in forestry. I feel torn as a voter between my livelihood and climate action 

I found myself standing on a dock overlooking Quesnel Lake in the B.C. Interior, the memory of the previous night’s lightning storm still fresh in my mind. The sky was still rumbling with thunder, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of fear and excitement as I watched the storm rage on. As an island boy working my first job in forestry, I was not used to such visible displays of nature’s power.

The following day, as we set out to work on the far side of the lake, we were met with the aftermath of the storm. Smoke billowed from the hillside where the lightning had struck, a stark reminder of the destructive force of nature. Throughout the summer, we continued our work while firefighters battled the growing wildfire on the other side of the lake. It was a surreal experience, watching the world burn while we went about our daily tasks.

As someone who works in forestry, I am acutely aware of the impact of climate change on our environment. The summers are getting hotter and drier, and wildfires are becoming more frequent. It is a reality that cannot be ignored, and it has forced me to confront my own beliefs and values.

On one hand, I am drawn to the idea of living a more sustainable, environmentally-conscious lifestyle. I want to reduce my carbon footprint, drive less, and do my part to care for the planet. But on the other hand, I also have personal desires for financial security, nice things, and the ability to enjoy life’s luxuries. It’s a constant struggle between what I want for myself and what I know is best for the planet.

In my line of work, I have seen firsthand the potential for forestry to be a force for good in combating climate change. Forests have the ability to sequester carbon and store it, providing a natural solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. But political and economic realities often stand in the way of implementing meaningful change.

The upcoming election has left me feeling conflicted. On one hand, I am drawn to the promises of increased prosperity and economic growth that conservative governments often offer. But on the other hand, I worry that a lack of action on climate change will only exacerbate the problems we are already facing.

I believe that there is a way to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. By working with nature, promoting carbon markets, and finding sustainable solutions, we can create a future that benefits both people and the planet. It may require sacrifices and difficult choices, but the cost of inaction is far greater in the long run.

As I look ahead to the election, I am searching for a party that will prioritize climate action and take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future. It is not about finding a perfect solution, but about acknowledging the urgency of the climate crisis and committing to real change.

I want to live in a world where accountability for our actions is the norm, where blue skies in August are not a rarity, and where future generations can enjoy the beauty of nature. It is a vision that is worth fighting for, and I hope that our leaders will rise to the challenge.