“Being a good neighbour is now a survival tool.” Sustainability on Gabriola Island

Life on Gabriola TV Lead Journalist Theresa O'Leary sits down to talk with Steven Earle of Sustainable Gabriola. Earle explains that the 14-year old group is collaborative in nature and was formed by citizens concerned about the environment, the impact of the climate crisis, and issues such as food security. The group is the force behind public transit on Gabriola Island -- a small fleet of buses affectionately known as the Gertie -- and hopefully soon the bus system will be going electric!

Earle admits it is an uphill battle getting islanders out of their cars and using public buses but the Gertie has provided environmental and social benefits to the community. Sustainable Gabriola has also identified a need to support people in adapting physically and mentally to the changing world we live in. The group’s 12-12-12 program takes into consideration the mental health and well-being of Gabriolans as they try to survive and and manage their collective anxiety level. Earle says this summer has not been too bad for islanders because there have only been a few smoky sky days and no fire but he understands that apocalyptic thinking can occur as you watch wildfires out of control in BC and Canada.

He adds that equipping neighbourhoods to respond in an emergency is where Sustainable Gabriola will be focusing its attention because, when disaster strikes our homes, we naturally go next door for help. Being a good neighbour is now a survival tool.

O’Leary mentions that Episode 2 of Gabriola TV’s weekly show "Island View" features the island's Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Shirley Nicholson and FireSmart Coordinator Carol Waldo. To view the episode, click here.

Life on Gabriola TV is generously sponsored by:

• The Gabriola Arts Council
• The Haven, Gabriola Island