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Ontario Releases Clean Energy and Climate Change Strategy

TORONTO — Clean Energy Canada’s Merran Smith and Sarah Petrevan made the following comments in response to the release of Ontario’s climate change strategy:

“Today, Ontario solidified its commitment to being a climate leader. This strategy will support clean technology innovation and entrepreneurship, reduce carbon pollution from buildings, industry and other sectors, and expand the market for electric vehicles and clean energy technologies.

“We applaud Ontario’s progress and sustained ambition. It will enable Ontario to fight climate change while capitalizing on the economic opportunities the clean energy transition presents.”

— Merran Smith, Executive Director, Clean Energy Canada

“Ontario’s climate strategy shows the province is committed to reducing carbon pollution while competing and thriving in the growing global market for clean energy technology. It will also ensure that its communities, industries and residents have the tools and support they need to adapt to climate change. Cutting pollution and competing in clean energy requires an all-government approach, and Ontario’s announcement today wisely reflects that approach.

“We welcome Ontario’s leadership and vision, and we look forward to seeing further details on the province’s cap-and-trade system and climate action plans in the months ahead.”

— Sarah Petrevan, Senior Policy Advisor, Clean Energy Canada

KEY FACTS

  • Ontario plans to introduce legislation that will establish a long-term framework for climate action and make the cap-and-trade program law.
  • Ontario will release a detailed five-year action plan in 2016, which will include commitments to meet the province’s 2020 emissions reduction targets, and establish the framework necessary to meet targets for 2030 and 2050. The government will report on, and renew, its action plan every five years.
  • Ontario has committed to reduce its emissions by 15% below 1990 levels in 2020, 37% below 1990 levels by 2030, and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
RESOURCES

Read Ontario’s Climate Change Strategy

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