Gigi On Earth

The outcomes of the U.S. election and the recent COP29 climate summit have left me grappling with feelings of hopelessness. It’s staggering that the climate crisis remains a polarizing issue rather than a shared, nonpartisan commitment. Our planet’s future hinges not only on who we elect to positions of power but also on the priorities of major corporations—many of which still fail to embrace meaningful climate action.

How much more scientific evidence or public outrage is necessary for the climate crisis to be taken seriously? At COP29, developed nations, including Canada, hesitated to commit additional climate funds, citing upcoming elections and the political risk of such decisions. It’s a vicious cycle: the climate emergency demands bold action, but bold action is too often sacrificed at the altar of political expediency.

I can’t help but wonder if transitioning to a sustainable economy should be managed by an independent body, separate from political whims. The rights of future generations shouldn’t be at the mercy of politicians afraid to make unpopular choices. Perhaps it’s not unreasonable to suggest that every public spending decision should be evaluated through an environmental lens, weighing its potential benefits—or harms—for the planet.

This reminds me of the bike lane debates here in Toronto, where opponents argue that bike lanes don’t significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This perspective is short-sighted. Failing to invest in active and public transportation perpetuates car dependency, leading to a future of wider highways and endless gridlock. Decisions like these ignore long-term consequences, favouring convenience over sustainability.

Kim Stanley Robinson’s novel The Ministry for the Future offers a compelling idea: Carbon Coins—a currency rewarded for activities that sequester carbon, such as regenerative agriculture or renewable energy projects. Imagine a system where decisions benefiting future generations were incentivized, not sidelined.

In the aftermath of these two pivotal November events, I find myself questioning where to place my trust. Governments appear unwilling to take strong, united action. World leaders seem stuck in endless negotiations, leaving us to wonder if they’re capable of solving the greatest crisis of our time. While the media tends to spotlight the bad, I know there are innovators and activists creating solutions. But is it enough?

Ultimately, I’m left with no choice but to trust in people. We must channel our outrage into action and make our demands clear—to politicians, businesses, and institutions. Leaders like Mayor Valérie Plante in Montreal and Mayor Anne Hidalgo in Paris offer hope. Both have implemented bold, sustainable projects, defying expectations about what’s politically possible. Their successes show that transformative change can resonate with voters and lead to enduring impact.

I can only hope this becomes the norm—not the exception—everywhere. The climate crisis demands nothing less.