Did you know that cities account for more than 70 percent of global energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions?

When it comes to executing emissions reduction initiatives, Ontario municipalities have been left with more questions than answers in the aftermath of the 2018 Ontario Provincial Election.

Given Kitchener’s commitment to recently adopted an “80 by 50” plan – a  goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent below 2010 levels by the year 2050 – a visit from Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change was particularly welcome, as was her key statement:

“If the Ford government isn’t committed to climate change, we’re going to work directly with Ontario cities, schools, businesses, hospitals and Ontarians to help them save money, to help them be more energy efficient.”

You can read more about McKenna’s visit here.  While so many questions remain unanswered regarding where our provincial leadership intends to invest, city council is reminded of the importance of all stakeholders.  Not least among the challenges council will face in the upcoming term will be ensuring healthy ongoing partnerships with nonprofits, civil sector associations, and the private sector.

To be fair, we have yet to hear what the new provincial government plan will look like with Cap & Trade scrapped, and will have to see what opportunities present themselves moving forward.

What are your ideas and concerns when it comes to climate change and reduction of emissions and the role of municipalities?  What can we do better? Drop me a line  and let’s chat….