News Release
April 22, 2025

On Earth Day 2025, UBCIC Urges Biodiversity Protection in the Face of Rapidly Expanding Natural Resource Projects

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – April 22, 2025) The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) calls for swift and systemic action to protect biodiversity and critical habitats in B.C. During a time of governmental obsession with accelerating natural resource projects, we cannot blindly ignore the damage these projects could have on the ecosystems that sustain our way of life.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President, stated, “Canada and B.C. claim to be environmental leaders while approving projects that stand to destroy massive areas of animal habitat and increase greenhouse gas emissions. Every day we hear grandiose speeches about expanding the economy and fast-tracking natural resource projects across the province; however, real climate action starts with respecting Indigenous title and rights and following the lead of First Nations working to protect their territories."

“As First Nations people, we hold a deep connection to the land,” commented Chief Don Tom, UBCIC Vice-President. “Seeing worsening disasters every year from droughts to wildfire compounded by more investments in fossil fuels is sickening. B.C. needs to strengthen its policies when it comes to holding industries accountable to reduce emissions and environmental destruction.”

Chief Marilyn Slett, UBCIC Secretary-Treasurer, concluded “I am constantly grateful when I get the opportunity to spend time on the land. It has provided for our peoples for thousands of years and we are putting it all at risk for short term investments and profits. The UBCIC calls on the provincial and federal governments to uphold and strengthen regulations that will lead to B.C. and Canada reaching their climate change goals and working with Indigenous peoples to protect more natural habitats across Turtle Island.”

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Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314
Chief Don Tom, Vice-President, 604-290-6083
Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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