In 2021, a mysterious neurological disease in New Brunswick caught national attention, but a year later, the provincial government dismissed the issue, claiming no cluster of patients existed. CANADALAND obtained internal documents revealing that the government misled the public and halted scientific research that could have identified the cause. Despite the province's closure of the investigation, symptoms persisted among patients, and new cases continued to emerge. The documents show that federal and provincial scientists initially collaborated well, focusing on environmental causes like blue-green algae, but the province abruptly ended the investigation. The lead neurologist, Dr. Alier Marrero, who identified the cluster, was later scapegoated. The article criticizes the provincial government's handling of the situation and highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in public health.

Extreme drought conditions in Manitoba, exacerbated by climate change, are severely impacting local agriculture and communities. Farmers like Tom Johnson are struggling to adapt, facing water shortages and the potential need to sell off cattle. The drought extends across southern Manitoba, affecting cities like Morden, which is experiencing a drinking water shortage. Research indicates that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of droughts, posing significant risks to Canada's agricultural sector and food security. Adaptation measures are being implemented, but the long-term viability of farming in the region remains uncertain.

CTV News is described as a toxic and abusive workplace by 20 current and former employees, who detail experiences of bullying, verbal abuse, and unsustainable labor demands. The complaints focus on the CTV News Channel team in Scarborough, Ontario. The article highlights the hypocrisy of Bell Media's mental health initiatives, citing the dismissal of an employee struggling with addiction without support. Precarious contracts and unfair compensation are also discussed, with employees often doing work above their pay grade. Bell Media has initiated an independent review to address these issues.

Ukrainian survivors of sexual violence and torture recount their harrowing experiences during the Russian invasion, highlighting the systematic and deliberate use of such tactics by Russian forces. Ukrainian authorities are working to build a case for the International Criminal Court, despite challenges in gathering evidence. The trauma experienced by survivors poses a significant threat to the social fabric of Ukrainian communities. Organizations like the United Nations Population Fund and the Center for Civil Liberties are providing crucial support, while international bodies continue to document and verify these war crimes.

Amanda Jensen from Lethbridge, Alberta, faced the devastating news of her son's leukemia diagnosis and subsequent job loss after requesting leave to care for him. Despite informing her employer, the Lethbridge Lodging Association, of the need for extended leave, they terminated her employment. Jensen had also filed a sexual harassment complaint shortly before her son's diagnosis. She filed a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission, which was dismissed, but she is appealing. Alberta's labour laws did not protect her job since she had been employed for less than a year and her son's illness did not meet the criteria for compassionate care leave. Labour Minister Christina Gray acknowledged the need for legislative reform, as Alberta's laws are outdated compared to other provinces. The Ministry of Labour is reviewing feedback from a consultation process to update these laws.

Gary Lineker's tweets criticizing the U.K. government's proposed immigration policy led to his suspension by the BBC, sparking a national debate on the broadcaster's impartiality. The controversy highlighted the BBC's struggle to balance impartiality with freedom of expression, especially for non-news presenters. The incident also brought attention to other instances where the BBC's impartiality was questioned, including its handling of a David Attenborough documentary and its relationship with the Conservative Party. Ultimately, Lineker was reinstated without issuing an apology, and the debate over the BBC's impartiality continues.

The article reflects on the resilience and strength of Ukrainians one year after the Russian invasion. It highlights the personal stories of individuals affected by the war, including a digital design artist, a soldier, and a mother. The author, Sarah Lawrynuik, shares her own journey of reconnecting with her Ukrainian heritage and expresses hope for Ukraine's future despite the immense pain and trauma caused by the conflict.

Tuvalu, a small South Pacific island nation, faces existential threats from climate change and rising sea levels. Leaders, including Simon Kofe and Seve Paeniu, are exploring innovative solutions such as creating a digital nation in the metaverse and seeking legal protections to maintain sovereignty. The country aims to preserve its culture and governance systems online while advocating for international recognition and support. The situation highlights broader issues of climate-induced displacement, with parallels drawn to Kiribati's climate refuge efforts and the challenges faced by climate refugees like Ioane Teitiota.

North Africa, particularly Egypt and Morocco, is increasingly turning to desalination to address water scarcity exacerbated by climate change. Egypt plans to quadruple its desalination capacity with 17 new plants, aiming to use solar energy to mitigate the high energy costs. Morocco is also expanding its desalination efforts, with significant projects in Casablanca. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development supports these initiatives, emphasizing renewable energy use. However, environmental concerns about brine disposal and its impact on marine life persist. Desalination is gaining global traction, with countries like Saudi Arabia, Israel, and California investing in the technology.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Africa earlier this year to seek natural gas partnerships contrasts with the current debates at COP27, where Senegalese President Macky Sall advocates for economic development through natural gas. The conference highlights the tension between exploiting natural gas reserves for economic gain and the environmental and economic risks associated with such investments. Climate advocates argue that natural gas development perpetuates historical injustices and undermines climate targets, while African leaders emphasize the need for economic growth. The International Energy Agency and other analysts warn of the potential for stranded assets and the volatility of natural gas markets.

Michael Melling, the Bell Media executive responsible for Lisa LaFlamme's dismissal, has taken leave amid accusations of interfering with CTV's news coverage and questioning LaFlamme's personal choices. Richard Gray will temporarily assume Melling's role. The CTV National News team experienced internal conflict over Gray's interference in a report on the LaFlamme controversy, leading to the piece being altered and initially not aired. Consumer brands like Dove have publicly supported LaFlamme in their marketing campaigns.

Svitlana Nahorna, an auditor in Lviv, Ukraine, has co-founded Lemberg Volunteers to supply non-lethal aid to frontline military units amidst the ongoing war. In Winnipeg, Zoya Kostetsky, originally from Ukraine, has transformed her Instagram into a fundraising platform, raising significant funds for Ukrainian aid. The article highlights the grassroots efforts of individuals like Nahorna and Kostetsky, who are mobilizing resources and support for Ukraine from both within and outside the country. The World Bank predicts a 20% increase in remittances to Ukraine in 2022 due to the war, underscoring the global support network forming to aid the Ukrainian resistance.

Sarah Lawrynuik reports on the lives of three Ukrainian women who worked as translators for the Canadian Armed Forces and their divergent paths following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Dzvinka Ohrodynk, a former translator, became a medic on the front lines. Nastia Stafeichuk, who had taken maternity leave, fled with her family from Kherson to Vinnytsia, facing financial difficulties. Iryna Manzholenko, also a former translator, found temporary work in Poland before deciding to apply for a Canadian visa. The article highlights the personal impacts of the war and the challenges faced by those who served foreign forces in their homeland.

Jonas von Matern, a Swedish helicopter pilot, has made multiple trips to Ukraine, delivering essential military aid including vehicles, tactical gear, and medical supplies. His efforts are part of a broader volunteer movement supporting the Ukrainian military amidst the ongoing war with Russia. Vartan Davtian, a Manitoban with roots in Ukraine, is similarly engaged in delivering supplies and vehicles. The article highlights the challenges faced by the Ukrainian military, including supply chain issues and counterfeit equipment, and underscores the critical role of volunteers in providing necessary support. The sentiment towards the Ukrainian military and volunteers is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing their dedication and the impact of their contributions.

Since 2015, Canadian soldiers have been deployed to Ukraine as part of Operation Unifier with the goal of training Ukrainian military and security forces to align with NATO standards. This mission was in response to Russian aggression, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The training involved over 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers and cost Canada $890 million. However, the mission was suspended in February 2022 due to the escalation of Russian troops along Ukrainian borders. The article discusses the impact of the training on Ukraine's military capabilities, the limitations of NATO's support, and the complex legacy of Canada's military involvement in Ukraine. It highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, the changes implemented in their military structure, and the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Tom Johnson, a cattle farmer in Oak Point, Manitoba, reflects on the severe impacts of climate change experienced in 2021, including extreme drought and wildfires. The drought led to unprecedented measures to sustain his farm, while other farmers were forced to sell their livestock. The Manitoba Wildfire Service faced one of its most challenging seasons, and communities experienced significant disruptions. Experts like Danny Blair from the University of Winnipeg’s Prairie Climate Centre highlight the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change. The year also saw international efforts to address climate change, with advancements in weather attribution science helping to link specific events to climate change.

In Churchill, Manitoba, the Polar Bear Marathon took place amid unseasonably warm conditions, highlighting the impact of climate change on polar bear habitats. The event coincided with the unveiling of an all-electric Tundra Buggy by Frontiers North Adventures, attended by politicians and conservationists. Manitoba's climate policies were criticized for their inadequacy, with experts warning of dire consequences for polar bears if greenhouse gas emissions continue unchecked. The article underscores the urgent need for comprehensive conservation strategies and proactive climate action.

In Churchill, Frontiers North Adventures unveiled its first all-electric Tundra Buggy, marking a significant step in eco-friendly tourism. The vehicle, retrofitted with recycled batteries from New Flyer buses, promises a quieter and more environmentally responsible experience for tourists. The project, supported by Manitoba's provincial government and various local institutions, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and set a precedent for electric vehicle use in harsh climates. The company plans to convert its entire fleet to electric within the decade, enhancing both tourist experiences and research opportunities.

Katharine Hayhoe's book 'Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World' addresses the complexities of climate change, offering insights into why it is a divisive issue and providing strategies for constructive dialogue. Hayhoe emphasizes shared values and personal stories to engage readers, advocating for both large-scale societal solutions and individual actions. The book is praised for its readability and multidisciplinary approach, making it a valuable resource for understanding and addressing climate change.

Canadian media has consistently failed to adequately address climate change in their reporting on extreme weather events, despite significant occurrences and scientific warnings. The article critiques the lack of context provided by journalists, who often omit the connection between climate change and extreme weather, leaving the public uninformed. It highlights the need for consistent and informed climate reporting to help communities understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Experts and organizations like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the World Health Organization, and the Prairie Climate Centre are cited to emphasize the importance of linking climate change to extreme weather in media coverage.

The Ford F-150 Lightning is positioned as a potential game-changer in the electric vehicle market, with the electric transportation industry's advancements largely driven by improvements in battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries, first commercialized by Sony in 1991, have evolved significantly, with smartphones and other personal electronics spurring innovation. The climate crisis and the need to reduce fossil fuel use have further accelerated battery development. NFI Group Inc., a Winnipeg-based electric bus manufacturer, has seen increased vehicle range due to these advancements. Despite the buzz around solid-state batteries, experts like Michael McDonald and Christian Kuss remain skeptical about the immediate future of this technology. Overall, battery technology is seen as crucial for climate-focused transportation policy.

The article explores the complex dynamics of hydroelectric power in Manitoba, highlighting the environmental and social impacts, particularly on Indigenous communities. It contrasts the untouched Seal River with the heavily manipulated Churchill River, discussing the broader implications of hydro development. The debate over the future of hydroelectric power versus other renewable energy sources like wind and solar is examined, with insights from various experts and stakeholders. The article also touches on the political and economic aspects, including the role of Manitoba Hydro, government policies, and the need for a strategic energy plan.

Researchers from the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States have discovered 'zombie fires' that smoulder underground during winter and can reignite in spring. The study, led by PhD student Rebecca Scholten from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and published in Nature, tracked these fires in Alaska and the Northwest Territories from 2002 to 2018. Although rare, these fires can contribute significantly to the total area burned, with one instance accounting for 38% of the area burned in Alaska in 2008. The research suggests that with climate change leading to hotter summers and more intense fires, zombie fires may become more common, although the impact of climate change is complex and could also lead to mitigating factors.

The article discusses the high incidence of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians in Manitoba, particularly in Winnipeg. It highlights the need for improved infrastructure to protect non-motorized road users and reduce emissions as part of the city's climate plan. Key stakeholders, including Brian Pincott of Vélo Canada Bikes and Coun. Matt Allard, advocate for more investment in active transportation infrastructure, while Coun. Jeff Browaty emphasizes the need for car-only infrastructure and better enforcement against distracted driving and walking.

Manitoba's Conservation and Climate Minister Sarah Guillemard approved a final, long-term licence for Manitoba Hydro to manage the Churchill River, despite longstanding opposition from Northern First Nations communities. The decision, which follows decades of temporary approvals, has been met with skepticism and outrage from Indigenous leaders who cite ongoing environmental and economic damage. The government asserts that extensive consultations have taken place and that new mandates for future consultations are in place, though community members remain unconvinced.

Representatives from O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation and Tataskweyak Cree Nation are urging the Manitoba government to reject a permanent permit for Manitoba Hydro that would allow continued manipulation of the Churchill and Nelson Rivers. The diversion, which began in 1976, has had severe environmental impacts and affected local fish populations, including sturgeon, which are culturally significant. Despite decades of temporary approvals, the First Nations criticize the lack of meaningful consultation and fear permanent approval would be detrimental to their communities and the ecosystem.

The Forks in Winnipeg is undergoing a significant transformation with the development of a mixed-use neighborhood powered by a district geothermal energy system. This renewable energy initiative aims to service 1,200 residential units and 100,000 square feet of commercial space, reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly compared to natural gas. Despite the lack of government push, developers are increasingly adopting geothermal technology, though its uptake is slower than climate targets demand. The project reflects a broader trend towards sustainable urban development, with other similar initiatives in the city.

The City of Winnipeg is considering changes to parking requirements for new multi-unit residential properties to stimulate the car-sharing market and reduce street parking pressure. St. Boniface Coun. Matt Allard proposed a study to explore the impact of allowing developers to support car-sharing programs, provide additional bicycle parking, or offer transit passes instead of traditional parking stalls. Allard believes these policies, combined with improvements in active transportation and transit services, could make the city more financially and environmentally sustainable.

Canadian artists, including Rhian Brynjolson, collaborated with scientists through the Global Water Futures program to create art that connects the public to climate science. The project, led by Louise Arnal, focuses on water and climate change, highlighting issues like permafrost thaw and the impact of hydro projects. The Virtual Water Gallery exhibit aims to evoke emotional responses and deepen understanding of environmental changes.

The Arctic is warming at twice the rate of the rest of the planet, leading to increased lightning strikes, which could double by the end of the century. This rise in lightning is expected to cause more wildfires, releasing significant amounts of greenhouse gases and further accelerating climate change. The feedback loops involving permafrost thaw, vegetation changes, and increased shrub and tree growth are contributing to a darker, warmer Arctic landscape. Scientists emphasize the urgent need to reduce emissions to mitigate these effects.

Swoop, a low-fare carrier and subsidiary of WestJet, has resumed flights to Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport after a year-long suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline is initially focusing on essential travel with limited flights to Hamilton and Abbotsford, with plans to expand to Kelowna in June. The return is part of a broader trend in the airline industry, which is banking on increased vaccination rates to drive recovery. Expert Karl Moore notes the potential profitability for low-fare carriers as business travel remains low. Air Canada's recent financial support from the federal government is also influencing market dynamics.

A COVID-19 outbreak has led to the closure of École Marie-Anne-Gaboury in St. Vital, Winnipeg, as cases rise sharply in Manitoba. The province reported 276 new cases, with a significant number in Winnipeg, and an increase in highly contagious variants. The school will switch to remote learning for at least two weeks after seven cases were identified across multiple cohorts. Parents expressed concerns about the lag in communication and the lack of prioritization for vaccinating school staff. Other schools in Manitoba have also moved to online learning, but a province-wide return to remote learning is not yet planned.

Leaders from 40 of the world's worst polluting countries convened virtually to discuss climate change at a global summit. While some leaders, like Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping, did not commit to specific emission reduction targets, others, such as U.S. President Joe Biden, announced ambitious goals. Canada, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, advanced its climate target to a 40-45% reduction in emissions by 2030. Despite these advancements, Canadian environmental organizations found the targets underwhelming. The summit also highlighted the need for developed nations to support green development in lower-income countries. The European Union and the United Kingdom continue to lead in decarbonization efforts.

Canada's greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, with the 2021 National Inventory Report showing a year-over-year increase of approximately one megatonne of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2019. The oil and gas sector and transportation are the primary contributors to this rise, while other sectors like electricity and heavy industry saw declines. Despite these increases, the federal government highlights successes such as emissions being lower than projected and a faster GDP growth rate compared to emissions. The transportation sector remains a significant emitter, with a notable increase in road transportation emissions. Agricultural emissions are stable but hindered by increased nitrogen fertilizer use. Only six provinces and territories have reduced emissions since 2005, with Manitoba and Saskatchewan seeing increases. The next report will assess the impact of COVID-19 on emissions.

The 2021-22 Canadian budget, the largest in the country's history, allocates $17.6 billion towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in net-zero technologies. Key initiatives include the creation of the country's first green bond, funding for carbon-capture technology, and support for low-emission aviation and marine fuels. Significant investments are also directed towards the agricultural sector and battery mineral mining. The budget aims for a 36% reduction in emissions by 2030, surpassing the 2015 Paris Agreement commitments. Additional measures include interest-free loans for home energy retrofits and a 50% tax cut for zero-emission technology manufacturers. The budget also proposes a cross-border carbon tariff with the United States.

A local cycling advocacy group, Bike Winnipeg, is urging the City of Winnipeg to align its municipal plans with national and international climate change targets. Charles Feaver, a volunteer with the group, criticized the city's draft planning document, OurWinnipeg 2045, for not meeting the necessary climate goals. The group argues that the current targets fall short of the Paris Agreement and that spending on transit and active transportation will be insufficient. The concerns also extend to another draft document, Complete Communities 2.0, which addresses neighborhood development.

The nearly $65 million in funding provided to Efficiency Manitoba by the federal and provincial governments will not expand the programs offered by the Crown corporation but will lower the bill for Manitoba Hydro. Efficiency Manitoba was established to improve energy efficiency with a smaller workforce and budget, and the funding will displace costs that would have been covered by Manitoba Hydro and Centra Gas. The federal funding was matched by the provincial government, resulting in a total of $64.6 million for Efficiency Manitoba. Despite initial impressions, the funding will not lead to the expansion of existing energy-efficiency programs but will subsidize the cost of energy it aims to reduce. Efficiency Manitoba will only expand programming as originally prescribed in its 2019 three-year plan.

Canada's greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, with the 2021 National Inventory Report showing a year-over-year increase of approximately one megatonne of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2019. The oil and gas sector and transportation are the primary contributors to this rise, although some sectors like electricity and heavy industry have seen declines. The federal government highlights that emissions are lower than projected before the 2017 climate strategy and that GDP growth outpaces emissions growth. However, only six provinces and territories have reduced emissions since 2005, with significant increases in others like Alberta and Manitoba. The transportation and agricultural sectors remain major contributors to emissions, and future reports will assess the impact of COVID-19 on emissions.

Manitoba wildland firefighters are preparing for an early start to the fire season due to severe drought conditions in southern Manitoba. Restrictions have been implemented to prevent fires, including bans on motorized backcountry travel and limitations on campfires. The situation is exacerbated by climate change, which is leading to earlier fire seasons and more frequent extreme fire years. Experts urge caution and provide a toll-free tip line to report wildfires.

Researchers urge caution as Manitoba issues new tourism permits for Churchill’s polar bear tourism industry, expanding access to a protected area for the first time in decades. The Churchill Wildlife Management Area, established to protect polar bear denning areas, has seen a decline in bear population from 1,200 in the 1980s to around 800. Concerns arise over the impact of increased tourism on the bears, amidst climate change pressures. The province's lack of transparency and community consultation, particularly the issuance of permits to Lazy Bear Expeditions without announcement, has sparked controversy. The Department of Agriculture remains committed to sustainable eco-tourism but has not commented on the permits. Recommendations from a 2015 independent review, including further research and policy adjustments for climate change, have not been fully addressed.

The article discusses the impact of the climate crisis on family planning decisions, highlighting the ethical dilemma faced by individuals contemplating parenthood in a world facing environmental challenges. It references a play called 'Lungs' featuring actors Claire Foy and Matt Smith, which mirrors real-life conversations about overpopulation and sustainability. Winnipeg's Shakespeare in the Ruins artistic director Rodrigo Beilfuss and Winnipegger Allison Kendall share their personal decisions and concerns regarding having children in light of climate change. Research indicates a high level of worry among Americans about the future of children in a climate-changed world. Projections suggest significant ecological shifts and displacement due to climate change, influencing individuals like Dominique Levin to consider the implications of bringing children into an uncertain future.

The lithium mining industry in Manitoba is experiencing renewed interest due to the global push for climate change action. Lithium, essential for modern batteries, is abundant in the province, and New Age Metals Inc. is poised to begin drilling near Cat Lake. Despite Canada's significant lithium reserves, active mining in Manitoba has been absent. The election of U.S. President Joe Biden and the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles have spurred investment and exploration. The Tanco mine, owned by Sinomine Resources Co. Ltd., has historically mined spodumene, a lithium-bearing mineral. The Manitoba government's Mineral Development Fund supports mining expansion, with New Age Metals among the beneficiaries. Environmental groups like the Wilderness Committee oppose mining in certain areas. The Canadian shield's geography offers extensive lithium mining prospects, with significant projects also underway in northern Ontario and central Manitoba.

The Alberta government, led by Premier Jason Kenney, has announced a significant investment in the Keystone XL pipeline amid the COVID-19 pandemic, despite historically low oil prices. The government's aggressive support for the oil and gas industry, including financial backing and legal support for pro-oil indigenous groups, has sparked criticism from environmental and human rights activists. The article highlights concerns over the government's use of social media to intimidate opponents and its dismissive attitude towards alternative energy solutions. The political strategy has united Albertans behind the government's pro-oil stance, despite the controversial methods employed.

The article discusses the challenges faced by humanitarian workers in Hungary due to the 'Stop Soros' bill passed by the national assembly, which criminalizes assistance to migrants not entitled to asylum. The bill, supported by Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his right-wing party Fidesz, is seen as targeting George Soros, whose Open Society Foundations have supported marginalized groups. The law has been criticized as xenophobic by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and has led to the European Parliament voting to start a sanction process against Hungary. The article also touches on the decline in asylum applications in Hungary, the country's political landscape, and comparisons between Orban and U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Monaco, facing a shortage of space and a high density of millionaires, is undertaking a $3 billion CAD project to expand its territory by six hectares into the Mediterranean Sea. This project, called Anse du Portier, will add 100 new units to Monaco's real estate market and is expected to be completed by 2025. The expansion is fully financed by private investors, with apartments going on sale in 2020. The construction is led by Bouygues Travaux Publics and includes environmental measures such as rehoming marine species. Monaco's history of land reclamation dates back to the late 19th century, and this current project is designed to withstand a 75 cm sea level rise over the next century.