Parallel federal political world of environment and copyright

The environment has emerged as a mainstream political issue, and copyright is showing similar signs.

As the Conservatives prepare to roll out their policy plan for the environment, there is little doubt that environmental concerns have emerged as a major political issue. With polls consistently confirming public concern with environmental sustainability, each of Canada's major political parties is anxious to be known as the most environmentally friendly.

The focus on environmental issues is a relatively new phenomenon. A generation...