Recently a First Nation chief spoke out to the government in an attempt to prevent Site C, a project also known as the Hydroelectric Megaproject. As illustrated in the article, BC Hydro is planning to construct a dam that produces 1,100 megawatts but in order to do this, would have to flood 83 kilometers of the Peace River Valley. By doing so, they would end up destroying farmland and wildlife habitat.
BC Hydro needs to understand that although the construction of this dam may benefit Canada in terms of providing sustainable energy, it will be destroying many wildlife habitats, which could potentially contain extinct animals. Furthermore, many countries including Canada struggle to preserve land, which contains wildlife, do to many mining industries and energy companies. On the other hand, when looking at the perspective of the First Nations, this land holds a large spiritual value. This land to many individuals, is important as many cultures and traditions were adopted in the region where they plan on constructing this dam.
As someone who really isn’t familiar with people who are considered First Nations, I feel like what BC Hydro is planning to do is disrespectful. Being someone who has grown up in so many different countries and learning about so many different cultures, I have come to learn that even though I live within the country, I will always be considered a guest. As a guest I have social responsibilities to respect the views and wishes of the local people. BC Hydro in a sense is in a similar situation. As a company, they have social and ethical responsibilities, which they must follow. One of their biggest responsibilities is to respect those around the region where they plan on constructing.
In conclusion, I feel like the BC Government should deny the construction of the dam and BC Hydro should consider construction in another region of the country.
Bibliography:
O’Neil, Peter. “First Nation Chiefs to Stage Site C Showdown Read More: Http://www.vancouversun.com/news/First+Nation+chiefs+stage+Site+showdown/10215965/story.html#ixzz3Fs3aYFY4.” The Vancouver Sun. N.p., 18 Sept. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014. <http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vancouversun.com%2Fnews%2FFirst%2BNation%2Bchiefs%2Bstage%2BSite%2Bshowdown%2F10215965%2Fstory.html>.