Ontario is moving to repeal the last remaining legal requirements that obligate the province to set greenhouse gas reduction targets, publish a climate plan, and report publicly on progress. This shift, critics say, will leave the province “in the dark” on climate pollution at a time when extreme weather and global climate policy shifts are rising.
Critics warn the move threatens transparency, economic competitiveness and community safety.
Buried near the end of Thursday’s fall economic statement was a short clause: “Amendments to repeal sections 3-5 of the Cap and Trade Cancellation Act, 2018.” This act, introduced by the Ford government, was a significant policy change that shifted Ontario’s approach to climate policy. Those sections currently require Ontario to set emissions-reduction targets, prepare a climate plan, and issue regular progress reports.
