The natural environment is one of the leading symbols of Canada, and Canadians pride themselves as world leaders on environmental issues. Why, then, is our country’s environmental record one of the worst internationally, ranked second last in environmental performance by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD)?

In her talk, “Just the Environment or Environmental Justice?” justice studies and sociology professor Margot Hurlbert will consider and evaluate the state of environmental justice in Canada. Canada has extensive environmental protection laws and regulations, but are they adequate? Do we as Canadians pay the environment tremendous lip service but fail to connect our actions with our values? Where are the gaps?

The fifth installment of the Faculty of Arts’ popular Coffee House Controversies series will take place Thurs., Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Chapters bookstore behind the Southland Mall (2625 Gordon Road).

Coffee House Controversies aims to bring the research interests of Faculty of Arts members to the community. Speakers give an informal 20-minute talk focusing on a controversial topic of interest to the general public. The talks are intended to encourage the open exchange of ideas. Twenty minutes of discussion follows each talk, during which members of the general public can ask questions or raise issues with the speaker or other audience members. The events are free and open to the public. Contact Jamie Browne at 585-4782 for more information.