Raising Ecological Consciousness in Newfoundland and Labrador

One of the key elements of good public policy is public engagement. It is crucial that the voices of those for whom public policies are in fact made are heard by policymakers. The usual form that public engagement takes is outreach. One organization, however, is looking to fundamentally change the way that communities are involved in the policy process, especially in the context of climate change. In today’s episode, Thea Koper sits down with Dr. Sean McGrath and Kyla Bruff, co-founders of the non-profit organization For a New Earth (FANE), based in Newfoundland and Labrador. Rather than leading one-sided outreach initiatives, this organization is focused on breaking down the barriers that exist between academia, the policy world, and local communities. FANE also recognizes the deep value that art, spirituality, and direct engagement with nature can bring to public engagement. We begin our conversation by discussing how this form of engagement is crucial not only for action on climate change, but for raising the ecological consciousness of a province. We then discuss specific policy recommendations for Newfoundland and Labrador pertaining to climate change. 

Dr. Sean J. McGrath is Professor of Philosophy and Theology at Memorial University of Newfoundland, a Member of the College of the Royal Society of Canada, and Co-Founder of For a New Earth. In his spare time he builds off-grid cabins.

Kyla Bruff is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Philosophy at Memorial University, a citizenship teacher in the UK, and the Co-Director of For A New Earth. She is a specialist in political philosophy, particularly within the German Idealist and Critical Theory traditions. Kyla frequently lends a critical voice to current political and ecological issues. Kyla speaks and works in English, French and German. Many of her publications trace the interactions and resonances between 19th and 20th century German and French philosophy. She is the Managing Editor of Kabiri (The Official Journal of the North American Schelling Society) the Treasurer of the North American Schelling Society. Kyla's hobbies are learning languages and ice hockey.

Produced by:

Thea Koper - Executive Producer

Music:

“Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell