Fossil fuels gave birth to modern society, and their emissions could bring modern society to an end.

This session will delve into issues of global warming and democracy, helping participants gain deeper understanding of the challenges Canada’s economy and politics face in transitioning to a zero emissions future.

Fossil fuels have brought untold benefits: planes, trains, and automobiles; modern agriculture; mass manufacturing; plastics and steel; the rise of the middle class; the demise of slavery; and increased leisure time, to mention a few.

But emissions from fossil fuels are driving a global environmental catastrophe.

Global warming is a death knell for the fossil fuel industry, and the fossil fuel industry is fighting for its life by targeting democratic institutions. What are the implications for democracy? For the environment? For you?

Former Alberta opposition leader and best-selling author Kevin Taft will draw on a wide-range of sources and experience to deliver information, encourage discussion, and provoke thought.

His day-long presentation will cover the rise and importance of Canada’s oil industry and the science of global warming, and will then build an analysis of the impact of the oil industry on democracy. There will be built-in opportunities for discussion.