The provincial government has announced $150 million in new funding to plant tens of millions of trees across BC.
This latest investment is part of the BC Liberals’ pre-election spending spree.
All of the funding will be transferred to the independent Forest Enhancement Society of British Columbia as a one-time, lump-sump payment during the current fiscal year. It adds to the $85 million in funding provided to the Society last year for its tree planting program.
“This is an investment in our forests, in B.C.’s rural communities – and the world’s clean air,” said Premier Christy Clark in a statement on Friday.
“This initiative is another example of how we do business in B.C., striking a balance between environmental protection and economic priorities. That’s the approach that has built Canada’s leading economy, and a world-recognized leader on climate action.”
Clark adds that the tree planting program reduces carbon emissions and helps fight climate change. A dedicated tree planting program could also support over 3,000 jobs over the next five years and 20,000 jobs over 10 years.
Since 2005, over $445 million has been spent by the provincial government on reforestation initiatives.
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