I do not agree with the…

I do not agree with the cancellation of this important climate change program. I am not affiliated in any way with the Green Party of Ontario, however I agree with their concerns outlined below. I urge the government to recognize the importance of a solid climate change plan and not to “play politics” on this topic. It feels like many people do not take this issue seriously and our political leaders have an opportunity to stress the fact that climate change is a real issue. Economic factors are important but the costs of unchecked climate change will be significant. While Ontario cannot change the world climate alone we simply cannot sit back and expect others to solve the issues. This is an area where real leadership can be shown.

Bill 4 fails to match the urgency of the climate crisis and represents a major step backward in the fight against climate change.
It is unfair and unreasonable to eliminate the province’s only climate plan without being transparent with the public about the plan to replace it.
Bill 4 closes Ontario for business to the $26 trillion global clean economy and will have a negative effect on clean jobs and investment.
Pollution pricing must be a pillar for a climate plan to be efficient and effective.
A credible climate plan would include binding targets to shift Ontario towards being 100% carbon neutral by 2050, supported by specific measures in the areas of energy efficiency, home and building heating, transportation, electricity, and climate adaptation.
Where Bill 4 goes wrong

The consultation process for Bill 4 was insufficient
Bill 4 ignores the urgency of climate change
Bill 4 closes Ontario for business to the clean economy
Bill 4 gives little detail about a replacement plan
Bill 4 does not contain binding emissions targets
Bill 4 eliminates the most important policy tool: pollution pricing

The way forward: Recommendations for a credible climate plan

Adopt carbon fee and dividend
Focus on energy efficiency in homes and buildings
Electrify our transportation system
Support jobs and investment in the clean economy
Make our electricity system clean, affordable, and community-owned
Prepare Ontario for climate impacts