Your voice is needed for a resource-led future in B.C.

Commentary
By Stewart Muir

British Columbia stands at a crossroads. The world around it is looking to create cleaner energy, secure its supply chains, and build more housing to alleviate the affordability crisis.

It must be made clear that our province’s near-limitless gift of natural resources will not only lead the way towards economic and sustainable security but also build better opportunities for future generations.

That is why Resource Works has launched a campaign titled The Voters Have Spoken, which we hope will echo this vision of a resource-led future that reflects what British Columbians already understand: natural resources are not only essential to our well-being; they are essential to securing the near and distant future.

The people of BC have grown increasingly concerned about the economic direction of their province. Recently, the BC Chamber of Commerce released a poll revealing that 66 percent of voters do not feel optimistic about the economy, and 75 percent are anxious that their children and grandchildren will not share the same opportunities enjoyed by their forebears.

This is one of the most important polls released this year, more so than any election poll. It drives home the urgency for policies that will embrace BC’s natural resource sectors for the benefit of all who live here.

Critical minerals, natural gas, lumber, and greater pipeline infrastructure combine to make the perfect toolbox to meet the economic challenges of today.

The critical minerals sector is a cornerstone of the transition to clean energy. As the world shifts towards decarbonization, the demand for minerals like lithium, nickel, and copper has been unprecedented. Electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, and other technologies that are essential for lowering emissions require these minerals.

BC’s provincial government recently launched the Critical Mineral Strategy, intended to accelerate mining projects and improve collaboration with Ottawa, while also aligning with Indigenous rights and environmental standards. In addition to economic gains, these critical minerals provide a double benefit by supporting both environmental and economic goals.

A sustainable future powered by critical minerals is the goal for the future. For today, however, oil and gas will continue to power the present, meet consumer needs, and boost our energy security.

The Voters Have Spoken exists to inform the public about the role of resources like natural gas in maintaining both affordability and consumer choice. LNG, in particular, helps meet global energy demands while reducing emissions in comparison to coal.

LNG aligns with BC’s balanced approach to energy needs, especially while the demand for reliable energy continues to grow worldwide. LNG exports are a sector where BC can contribute to countries facing energy shortages while strengthening our own economy.

The completion of the Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX) project earlier this year is a clear display of how major resource infrastructure projects benefit all British Columbians. For decades, BC endured higher fuel costs largely due to the formerly limited capacity of TMX.

Expanding TMX’s capacity has reduced our reliance on expensive fuel imports and broadened the reach of Canadian oil on international markets. Once operational, Vancouver’s fuel prices fell significantly, providing relief to commuters, families, and small and medium businesses.

In an era of economic uncertainty, these savings make a meaningful difference to working- and middle-class families. TMX proves that well-conceived, targeted projects yield long-lasting economic benefits, make life more affordable, and keep Canada a reliable energy provider globally.

Any discussion about economic anxieties must mention housing affordability. Forestry is a historic pillar of the BC economy, but the sector has been hammered by setbacks like declining timber harvests, mill closures, and slumping lumber demand.

Construction has slowed, and housing starts are declining, but Ottawa’s commitment to a real increase in housing starts could spark a revival of BC forestry. Both the governing Liberals and the Conservatives in opposition have pledged to build more homes.

This cross-aisle push for a greater housing supply is a tremendous opportunity for the forestry sector to deliver the lumber needed for this promised boom.

The BC Chamber of Commerce poll underscores voter concerns, especially regarding the underuse of our natural resources. Seventy-four percent of respondents believe in tapping into our natural resources to create a better future for younger generations.

Sixty-four percent of business owners have considered leaving BC due to rising costs and economic challenges. This poll is a stark reminder of our unsustainable status quo.

If BC continues to rely on real estate for growth, we miss the chance to diversify sectors like energy, mining, and forestry, ensuring a more resilient economy for all British Columbians.

The Voters Have Spoken campaign reflects what the majority in our province feel—that natural resources are the bedrock of a better future. It is time for policymakers to listen, take action, and unlock BC’s potential.

We have the resources, the workforce, and public support. All that remains is to craft the vision.

Stewart Muir is the founder and CEO of Resource Works.