North Cowichan can reduce net carbon emissions by 20,000 tonnes/year by replacing logging of the Six Mountains Forest with a carbon offset project.

This is comparable to the carbon emissions from 18,180 medium sized vehicles driving the 9.3k from Maple Bay to Duncan every day for a year. (https://www.myclimate.org/carbon-offset)

OR

The carbon emissions from 17,450 return flights from Victoria to Toronto for one passenger in economy.

The 20,000 tonne carbon reduction number comes from a Forest Carbon Feasibility Study by 3GreenTree Ecosytems commissioned by the Municipality.

Add a grouped carbon project with private landowners and the number could be even higher

On top of this, there would be minimal impact on the Municipal budget as the projected carbon offset revenue is comparable to logging.

This is a "big move" climate action the Municipality can take now to address community climate aims.

We have a chance to make a real difference. There are no other Municipal initiatives that can generate this kind of emission reduction without a major investment.

I hope Mayor and Council will embrace this opportunity to make North Cowichan a leader in climate change mitigation.