Manitoba unveils radical program to reduce carbon emissions

On December 3 while at the Paris UN Climate Conference, Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger announced a comprehensive plan to control greenhouse gas emissions.

The plan is to cut the province’s greenhouse gases by one-third by 2030. He said the plan would create green jobs and a sustainable economy.

The plans include the following:

– joining Ontario and Quebec in introducing a cap-and-trade system for large greenhouse gas emitters

– consulting with other sectors on carbon stewardship for non-capped industries

– creating a new demand side energy management agency

– setting new energy savings targets and expanding on existing green building standards

– increasing renewable energy capacity, including hydro

– partnering with the geothermal industry and community organizations on more geothermal and biomass installations

– moving to make government operations carbon neutral

– investing in crucial infrastructure from flood mitigation to adaptable transportation in remote communities

– introducing an environmental bill of rights that would enshrine the commitment that every Manitoban has the right to clean air, water, land and a stable climate.

– working with Indigenous partners, using their traditional ecological stewardship

– expanding education that will ensure that all Manitobans understand their role in protecting the environment

– establishing an independent oversight body to ensure public accountability.

“It is our collective obligation to fight climate change to ensure a healthy environment and robust economy,” said Premier Selinger.  “We must do what we can to mitigate current risks while looking at ways to adapt to climate change.  Delays will only make it more difficult and costly in the future.”

To read the press release, click here.