As a significant waterway in Canada's history, the Fraser River is of personal importance to many Canadians including myself. This is why the recent developments planned by the City of Surry are profoundly concerning. The Fraser River, already accessible to individuals wishing to scatter the ashes of their deceased loved ones, is under threat from a proposed plan to build a pier. The impact of this move is larger than personal sentimental attachment.

Statistics indicate that Canada's water bodies are already facing a pollution crisis. As per a recent report by Environment and Climate Change Canada, more than 1/3 of Canadian water bodies are experiencing a drastic decrease in quality due to pollution. Any endeavor promoting mass cremation could have catastrophic implication for the Fraser River's ecosystem, contributing to the pollution of one of our country's largest and cleanest waterways.

The Ganges River has been reported as "dead" from the pollution caused by funeral proceedings and other rituals. Do not let this happen in Canada. Having a pier built is a foot in the door phenomenon. There will be no one appointed to enforce rules, leading to opportunities for remains to become trinkets, fabrics, plastics, dyes, toxins, and likely evening the dumping of garbage waste.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollution_of_the_Ganges

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0160412018308845

We are not petitioning against the concept of honoring loved ones in their afterlife, but we firmly believe it shouldn't be done at the expense of our environment. Hence, we urge the City of Surrey to reconsider their decision and explore alternate options that will preserve the integrity of the Fraser River. Your signature could make all the difference—please sign this petition and help protect our natural heritage.