The Government of Yukon, Yukon First Nations, transboundary Indigenous groups, and local municipalities are launching a public engagement process to seek direction on climate change, energy, and the green economy.

These groups seek to understand what is important to Yukoners when it comes to meeting energy needs and sustaining a strong, green economy, and addressing climate change.

“Meeting our energy needs and sustaining a strong economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the impacts of climate change is a challenge that affects all Yukoners,” said Yukon Minister of Environment Pauline Frost. “By working together we can create a roadmap for building resilient communities and low carbon economies.”

The territory-wide strategy will aim to provide a comprehensive framework for making more resilient communities, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and planning for Yukon’s energy needs and economic future.

“A key element of moving toward a green economy is respect of First Nation knowledge and rights. This is a prerequisite for effective working relationships throughout the territory. We are committed to work together to develop sustainable solutions for our land, water and people,” said Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Dän nätthe äda Kaaxnox (Chief Steve Smith).

Yukoners and individuals from transboundary Indigenous groups are invited to provide their input by reading a discussion document and participating at community meetings or completing the online survey.

“The City of Whitehorse looks forward to participating in the strategy, and encourages citizens of our city and the entire Yukon to consider the important topics of energy, climate change, and the green economy,” said City of Whitehorse Mayor Dan Curtis. “There is much potential for change in how we live, earn money, and work towards sustainability.”

In collaboration with participating Indigenous and municipal governments and organizations, the Government of Yukon will use the input received from this initial engagement along with expert knowledge to develop a draft strategy for public review.

The plan is to release the final strategy in late 2019.

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