Aerial view of Toronto cityscape at sunrise
We can all do our part to fight climate change. By participating in Save on Energy programs, Ontarians reduced their energy use by 6.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) between 2011 and 2015 – enough energy to power a city the size of London, Ontario for two years.
But there’s more to be done to reduce the consequences of climate change. From dangerous weather to disrupted food production, environmental damage and water pollution, these consequences threaten our snowy driveway games, pizza toppings, man caves and fishing seasons. That’s why the Ontario government has established a carbon market that sets a hard cap on GHG emissions. Proceeds are reinvested into GHG reduction initiatives through the Climate Change Action Plan.
Ontario’s carbon market gives businesses and industrial organizations flexible terms for how they can meet their GHG reductions targets. By helping businesses gradually lower their emissions and improve their energy efficiency, this program helps businesses become partners in the fight against climate change.
Ontario is also supporting homeowners, commuters and business owners to gradually transition to a low-carbon economy. Proceeds from Ontario’s carbon market are helping to fund programs like the Enbridge Gas Distribution and Union Gas Home Energy Conservation Incentive Program, energy-saving social housing retrofits, non-profit emissions reduction programs, an expanded network of electric vehicle charging stations and supporting clean technology and innovation.
These programs not only help fight climate change, but also make the air cleaner and healthier for people across Ontario. When Ontario eliminated coal-fired power generation, the province saved approximately $4.4 billion annually in health, environmental and financial costs. Continuing Ontario’s transition to a low-carbon economy will bring even greater savings, while creating good jobs, boosting innovation and reducing the province’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Courtsey of Green Ontario Fund, info@GreenON.ca