The Centre québécois du droit de l’environnement (CQDE), an environmental group, is urging a Quebec Superior Court judge to suspend the construction of the Northvolt EV battery factory in Quebec. The group argues that the city of Saint-Basile-le-Grand lacked the authority to approve the cutting of wetland trees to make room for the factory. The CQDE also implicates the Quebec government, stating that they should have taken action to protect the environmentally significant ecosystems that will be demolished for the plant’s construction.
In support of their case, the group emphasizes the importance of public participation in large industrial projects. They believe that individuals should have the opportunity to voice their concerns and ask questions, ensuring that the democratic process is respected.
The multi-billion-dollar Northvolt factory was hailed by Quebec Premier François Legault and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a catalyst for economic growth and a step towards complete domestic production of electric car batteries. However, Superior Court Judge David Collier has raised doubts about the validity of the CQDE’s claims. A decision on the matter is expected in the coming week.
It is worth noting that the CQDE clarified that they are not affiliated with the alleged sabotage at the Northvolt site. An anonymous environmental group recently claimed to have sabotaged the area by inserting metal bars and nails into trees. The CQDE believes that such actions depict the deep concerns expressed by certain sectors of the population and reaffirms their commitment to utilizing legal avenues to protect the environment.
As the legal battle unfolds, the fate of the Northvolt battery plant in Quebec remains uncertain. The court’s decision will determine whether construction continues or if it will be halted to address the concerns raised by the environmental group.
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The source of the article is from the blog coletivometranca.com.br