Paul Okalik on why Nunavut needs a say in its own future
Summary
Megan Leslie interviews Paul Okalik, former Premier of Nunavut and WWF Canada colleague, about the urgent need to finalize the territory’s land use plan to protect Inuit rights and wildlife. They discuss the threats posed by Baffinland’s planned mine expansion, a new railroad, and increased shipping, which are displacing caribou, narwhals, and walruses. Okalik emphasizes the cultural and nutritional importance of these species and the challenge of balancing economic development with Indigenous-led conservation. The episode concludes with a "Nature Hot Take" from soil expert Cahal Doherty, w…
Topics discussed
Cold open: Stressors on Nunavut's lands and wildlife
Introduction to Paul Okalik and episode overview
Why all Canadians should care about Nunavut
Paul's upbringing in Pangnirtung and connection to land
Climate change and the loss of sea ice skating
Reflections on becoming Nunavut's first premier
The stalled Nunavut Land Use Plan
The cultural importance of protecting caribou calving grounds
Concerns over the Baffinland railroad and habitat loss
The domino effect of declining caribou populations on diet
Shipping expansion and its impact on narwhals and walruses
Balancing economic development with environmental stewardship
Challenges in achieving Inuit-led conservation
A vision for Nunavut 25 years from now
Trail Mix: Quick questions on Arctic life and wildlife
Closing remarks and thanks to Paul Okalik
Nature Hot Take: The importance of soil in gardening
Show outro and newsletter promotion
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