First Nations leadership key to net zero goals

Economic reconciliation is central to Canada’s efforts to reach carbon net zero — and in the energy sector, it makes good business sense. Many challenges presented themselves, including navigating our way out of the Indian Act and developing a land management regime under the First Nations Lands Management Act (FNLMA). First Nations must have an active leadership role and an equity stake in clean energy projects. An equity stake supports self-determination and provides a path to economic reconciliation. Wayne McQuabbie is the chief of Henvey Inlet First Nation; Gregory Newton and John Beaucage serve as CEO and vice president, respectively, of Nigig Power Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Henvey Inlet First Nation.