BC Hydro’s $8-billion Site C hydroelectric project, the construction and operation of a dam along with a 1,100-megawatt hydroelectricity station in northeastern BC, is under fire from the coast’s First Nations. BC Hydro argues that the project will create a long-term solution for the “increasing need for electricity to sustain the growing population.”

To proceed with a project of this magnitude is proving difficult as critics are opposing from every angle. Politically, the laws are against any infringement on Aboriginal titled lands unless circumstances of important government objectives. These laws were formed to protect the rights and freedom of their people so that they may maintain their heritage; the project sets to develop on the waters of several tribes that “use the area for ceremonial purposes”. Economically, the people depend on the region to maintain their lifestyle of fishing and trading. Building a site like this could possibly disrupt their delicate economic system. 

BC Hydro “downplayed the impact” of said project and are now facing the consequences: First Nations are steadfast on their case and are determined to exercise their political weight, support pro-environment causes, and assimilate heritage preservation to urge rejection of the hydroelectric project. Perhaps the hydroelectricity company best move towards initiatives involving input from the First Nations to better handle the variables of their future projects. 

Researched links:

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/First+Nation+chiefs+stage+Site+showdown/10215965/story.html

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/First+Nation+chiefs+stage+Site+showdown/10215965/story.html

Recent protests for democracy in Hong Kong spearheaded mostly by university students and the younger generations have spurred attention globally. One would say fighting for democracy seems righteous and justified but what about the not-so-political effects this revolution has created? At what costs are we willing to give up for democracy and change?

Protesters fill one of Hong Kong’s busiest streets for democracy.

Having many relatives and immediate family members in Hong Kong has given me quite a perspective regarding these protests. Our family of 50+ (including aunts, great-aunts, uncles, cousins etc.) has a WhatsApp groupchat, and instead of the usual videos of my baby cousin dancing to Barney, the chat has been bombarded by posts supporting the movement, against the movement, and posts supporting the police. With the different views, I have decided for myself that many people outside of Hong Kong are not getting the full picture.

A few of my uncles are local business owners and are currently reaping the wrath of the movement: having to close down due to congestion on the streets and the increasing violent nature of some citizens. Other aunts are worried because the banks are closed and they need to wire money to my cousins to help pay rent. These seemingly small effects are in reality devastating and frightening to those that aren’t necessarily looking to vote for their government but are looking to put food on the table and stay in their apartment for one more month.

On the bigger scale, the Hang Seng Index dropped to a low of 22.932 as the tension between protesters and police escalated. The tourism industry isn’t fairing much better either, with up to 30% drop in travels since the protests started. With all the economic effects, one would still say fighting for democracy is righteous, but at what costs is this righteousness justified?

Researched links:

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/hong-kongs-umbrella-revolution-carries-economic-threat-2014-09-29

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/protesters-to-lift-hong-kong-government-blockade/article20937150/

https://blogs.ubc.ca/sincerecheong/2014/09/29/blackberry-passport-entry-into-the-competitive-market/

The recent launch of the Blackberry Passport sets itself apart from the other smartphones in the market. Having already established the position of leading device for professional use, Blackberry hopes to reenter the competitive market based on its founding values and innovations. The Passport sold out promptly after its release date, a sign pointing to a road of recovery for the struggling company.

Deciding to appeal to professionals, as opposed to “app-infused smartphone users”, CEO John Chen is reacquiring his position in consumers’ mind as the device that will last long hours, send longs emails, and sustain long use. Positioning, being an integral component to any successful brand was and still is Blackberry’s forte.

Although its early success, many analysts are skeptical towards the hardware as being the company’s solution to long-term growth. Not only that, but quoting the post that the Passport is to appeal to “fewer than one in ten smartphone users” doesn’t seem to light a path of profits. Although I am also a “faithful and loyal” Blackberry user, and am nonetheless excited to witness Blackberry’s apparent comeback, I am still skeptical to believe this product is the company’s correct key to the success.