The energy transition is already happening, and it’s being led by our Indigenous communities – Environmental Defence

April 26, 2024

This blog was written by Melina Laboucan-Massimo, Founder and Executive Director of Sacred Earth Solar

My name is Melina Laboucan-Massimo. I am from the Lubicon Cree First Nation in Little Buffalo, Alberta.

In 2011, my community experienced what was the second-largest oil spill in the province’s history – 4.5 million litres of crude oil (28,000 barrels) contaminated hectares of an aquifer, beaver ponds, muskeg and dense forest. The pipeline owner – Plains Midstream Canada ULC – later faced three charges under provincial law.

The effects of the spill were disastrous. I remember family members struggling to breathe – intense nausea and burning eyes. Our community closed schools and told kids to stay inside. It was terrifying.

Read More: https://environmentaldefence.ca/2024/04/26/the-energy-transition-is-already-happening-and-its-being-led-by-our-indigenous-communities/