Fort Simpson (July 16/04) - If it was left to them, members of the Dene Youth Alliance say they'd pass on a Mackenzie Valley pipeline in favour of renewable energy projects.

"We are opposed to the Mackenzie Gas Project because it is unsustainable development," said Jennifer Duncan, co-founder of the organization, which held an assembly in Fort Simpson July 10-12.

Duncan said any benefits to the pipeline would be outweighed by the environmental degradation caused by the pipeline, which she noted will contribute to fossil fuel emissions.

Wind and solar projects

Nick Tilsen, of the Lakota Action Network in South Dakota and a guest at the assembly, said a group of people in his area have been promoting wind and solar projects. Giant energy corporations will exhaust the world's easily accessible sources of oil and gas within the next 50 years, Tilsen predicted. Then they will be forced to seek alternatives. He wants to see them changeover sooner than later.

"If you want to stay in business long-term, invest in renewable energy," was his message to oil and gas companies.

Tilsen added that corporations can still turn a profit on renewable energy projects, but indigenous people should take ownership of them to build an economy and sovereignty.

The agenda for the summit was dotted with other weighty issues, such as globalization, indigenous rights and sustainable communities.

Take responsibility

Duncan said the Dene Youth Alliance can make a difference.

"If all of us are going to take responsibility for our local decisions then we can make a global impact... the leaders have to make decisions based on our input," she said, adding that an elders council offers guidance to the youth delegates.

Jonas Antoine, a self-described "young elder" from Fort Simpson, said he was impressed by what he heard from the younger generation.

"They have great concerns. I feel they are not being listened to," he said. "The young people need encouragement. That's the message: 'Don't give up.'"