Powell River, B.C. -- Ratifying the Kyoto accord in Canada given the current not-very-green White House is understandably troubling. There are some things that we could do, though, to begin reducing emissions.

As California proved beyond any doubt, strict vehicle-emission standards can be applied without jeopardizing the economy. The Bush administration is the first since the 1970s not demanding improved fuel economy for vehicles.

Canada could, if it showed some backbone, choose to do this; it would be a start.