Environmentalists urge politicians to adopt 'green' campaign habits

Internet preferred over flyers

Last Updated: Saturday, April 11, 2009 | 2:06 PM PT

CBC News

As British Columbians get ready to head to the polls in May, one environmental group is urging voters to take a closer look not just at the policies, but also at the campaigns themselves.

Ian Bruce, a climate change specialist with the David Suzuki Foundation, said it's important for voters to look past policy positions and see just how environmentally friendly each candidate's campaign really is.

He's urging candidates to scrap traditional tactics like campaign flyers in favour of the internet.

"I think using the full capacity of the internet to distribute materials … is a way to bring people together with a very low impact and get the message out," he said.

"I don't think it's necessarily the medium that's the most important [but] rather the message and the policies that those public officials that are running for office are supporting."

Any flyers that are printed should be on 100 per cent recycled paper, Bruce said, and those who plan to knock on doors to woo voters should use sustainable transportation during the campaign.

"Transportation is likely the largest impact on the environment as it relates to greenhouse gas emissions and things like traffic congestion and urban sprawl," he said.

"Candidates who demonstrate that they're using sustainable transportation would send a strong message that they're committed to the environment."

It's important for officials running for office to show leadership on protecting the environment, Bruce said, and he's hoping candidates will demonstrate their commitment.

B.C.'s provincial election is to be held May 12.