Oil Wealth and Genuine Progress - Finding the Balance
Will the bounty of oilsands in northern Alberta prove to be a blessing or a curse to future generations? That is the question that people inside and outside this country are asking with increasing urgency. As in all development, the answer involves basic questions about the meaning of progress - economically, socially and environmentally.
A thesis, advanced by many planners and scientists, argues that genuine progress considers global and longer term wellbeing, balancing economic sustenance with environmental and social health and stability. The presentation will emphasize the urgent need for managed growth - using the best of science and human values in setting, and enforcing, limits to growth, rather than allowing the current approach which allows the ‘‘market’’ to determine the pace and scope of oilsands development.
Are Albertans ready to accept this approach to oilsands development? What would it take to implement it?
Speaker: Dr. David Swann
David Swann has been a medical practitioner in the province and abroad for 30 years and entered political life after being fired as Medical Officer by the Palliser Health Region in 2002 for his public support of national policy to reduce fossil fuel use, thereby improving human and environmental health.
He is currently the Environment Shadow Minister for the Alberta Liberal Opposition.
He lives in Calgary with his wife, Laureen, three grown children and three grand-children.
Moderator: Cathy Coates
Date/Time: Thursday, 1 November 2007, Noon - 1:30 PM
Location: Ericksen’s Family Restaurant (lower level of The Keg) 1715 Mayor Magrath Dr. S.
Cost: $10.00 (includes lunch)