'It Costs a Lot to Change, But More Not To"

However, as I dug into my new role as the director of climate research and policy, I was surprised by the challenges we face here—not because of a lack of care, but because of a lack of options that keep us on unsustainable paths.

Coming from Ontario, I expected familiar challenges, like balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. But what struck me most about New Brunswick was the incredible disconnect between people’s deep love for their forests, rivers and coastlines and the decisions made by policymakers that threaten these treasures.

During my first weeks at the new job, I met with a government official responsible for shaping the future of our energy system. When asked about their energy strategy, I was shocked to hear the work had been outsourced and entrusted to a consultant with an interest in maintaining the status quo.

This moment clarified something I was beginning to see everywhere in New Brunswick: too often, the same voices dominate, the same options are repeated and transformative solutions are sidelined. 

I also saw something else, however: hope. New Brunswickers want change. They care about clean water, thriving forests and affordable, sustainable ways to heat their homes. They just haven’t been shown all of their choices.

For years, decision-makers have said that change is too costly, too risky or too hard, and they only commit to Band-Aid solutions. But the truth is that doing nothing costs more—whether it’s higher power bills, damaged homes from flooding or the strain on our health-care system from pollution-related illnesses.

That’s where the Conservation Council comes in. We’re here to help New Brunswickers see what’s possible. Whether it’s advocating for energy-efficient homes, supporting community-based forestry or empowering citizens with the tools to push for cleaner, more affordable energy, we show the ‘hidden options’ that people don’t even know they have.