Over 40 community members gathered at the Walter Baker Sports Centre on Thursday, December 6 to hear an eye-opening and fascinating presentation from former Liberal environment minister, the Honourable Charles Caccia. Hosted by the Nepean-Carleton Federal Liberal Association, the forum offered residents insightful thoughts on one of the most important issues facing humanity today: Sustainable Development and what it means for Canadians.

Caccia emphasized the need for integrating social, economic and environmental goals in all facets of public policy development, programming and regulatory controls if we are to survive on this planet. The economy and the environment need not be viewed as separate issues and are indeed intertwined.

What we really need, said Caccia, is to follow the example of Sweden, which has gone down the road toward the "decarbonization of society." Our American friends, as well, have made strong moves toward sustainable development, with various states and municipalities reducing their greenhouse gas emissions.

Audience members were given a lengthy and enlightening question and answer session, and gave Caccia several rounds of applause for his insightful and timely analysis of the dire environmental situation we all face if our governments do not act.