Ben West becomes executive director of Tanker Free B.C.
Georgia Straight
ONE OF VANCOUVER'S best-known environmentalists has a new job.
Ben West has been appointed as executive director of Tanker Free B.C.
It was created in 2009 to oppose Kinder Morgan's plan to triple the amount of oil it ships from Alberta to the Lower Mainland. If the company's pipeline application is approved, it would result in more than 300 additional oil tankers travelling through Burrard Inlet every year.
West, 37, has previously worked for ForestEthics Advocacy and the Wilderness Committee, where he distinguished himself as a community organizer.
He's been especially adept at encouraging young people to get involved in environmental issues.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to work with Tanker Free B.C.,” West said in a news release. “At this vital moment in Canadian history, as we debate the next generation of energy and transportation infrastructure in this country, I feel privileged to play a leadership role in this important organization”.
He was once deputy leader of the B.C. Green party, but in the last election, he supported the B.C. NDP.
