B.C. climate update: Solar project review begins and new orca calf arrives

An environmental review has begun for a proposed B.C. solar project after BC Hydro issued a call for power, and a new calf has been reported for the endangered southern resident killer whales.

B.C. officials have begun an environmental review for a proposed solar project after British Columbia Hydro issued a call for power. At the same time, authorities reported the arrival of a new calf for the endangered southern resident killer whales. These local developments are appearing alongside international climate data that shows recent years among the warmest on record. Agencies have reported rising greenhouse gas concentrations and higher average global temperatures in recent years. Key facts: - An environmental review has been initiated for a proposed solar project in British Columbia following a call for power from BC Hydro, as reported. - A new calf has been reported for the endangered southern resident killer whale population. - The EU Copernicus Climate Change Service reported the global average temperature in 2023 was about 1.48°C above pre‑industrial levels and that 2024 reached about 1.55°C above pre‑industrial levels. - 2025 was reported as the third warmest year on record after 2024 and 2023, continuing a multi‑year warming trend. - Reports note that atmospheric CO2 concentrations have risen substantially since the 19th century, with June 2025 exceeding 430 parts per million, and that the UNEP 2025 Emissions Gap Report projects higher long‑term warming if current targets are met. Summary: Local authorities have opened an environmental review for a proposed solar project and a new orca calf has been reported, reflecting concurrent attention to energy planning and marine conservation. International agencies report persistent warming and higher greenhouse gas concentrations over recent years. Undetermined at this time.