Petch Fountain was the site of a prominent display of solidarity with the old-growth forest ecosystems of Vancouver Island on March 10. The UVic chapter of the Western Canadian Wilderness Committee (WCWC) facilitated the erection of a proud conifer on the concrete of the fountain area, hoping to educate and engage students on issues surrounding irresponsible logging practices in their province.

Investigating citizens for possessing subversive literature and recruiting informants against those who criticize authority are tactics usually reserved for thought-police in dystopian fantasy novels. Such tactics are also proving to be standard practice for the RCMP-led team responsible for Vancouver’s 2010 Olympic security.

Every time you swipe your debit card to buy organic vegetables or a new tire for your bicycle, you’re supporting large-scale environmental degradation. Sound unlikely? Check the logo on your card.