Dear Editor,
I appreciate the opportunity to respond to Alex Ruff’s recent letter addressing the Federal price on carbon. It is important to approach the issue of carbon pricing with a comprehensive understanding of its context and implications for both our economy and the environment.
While Mr. Ruff highlights concerns about the financial burden of the price on carbon, it is essential to recognize that the primary aim of the policy is to send a price signal to consumers and companies to reduce emissions and mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change, which disproportionately affect low-income families and marginalized communities within Canada, not to mention the entire Global South. Inaction on climate change will lead to far greater economic losses and costs that far exceed any short-term increases in taxes.
The Parliamentary Budget Officer’s report, though valid, is one perspective among many. Ultimately, the cost of not addressing climate change, through severe weather events and the damage they bring, the health risks associated with increased heat, along with dramatic increases in the price of insurance, and adverse effects to our food systems, will be felt by ALL Canadians. Moreover, the revenues generated from carbon pricing are intended to support green investments and initiatives that create jobs, transition workers, and lead to sustainable economic growth.
Mr. Ruff suggests shifting focus to emissions reductions through increased fossil fuel exports. However, it is crucial to note that investing in renewables and innovative technologies, while phasing out fossil fuels, is what will position Canada as a leader on the global stage. The scientific community is clear: we cannot simply wait for the largest emitters to take action before we do our part. Our climate commitments are a matter of global responsibility and moral obligation.
It is true that Canada’s emissions have risen. That burden is on all of us. We ALL need to do our part to reduce Canada’s emissions. We all need to stop burning stuff and electrify as quickly as we can. To start we should reduce our household emissions (which are 17% of Canada’s emissions) by installing heat pumps, heat pump hot water heaters, induction stoves, and disconnecting from the gas line as our appliances need replacing (or as soon as possible if we have the means – there are currently some great incentive programs available). Then we all need to swap our ICE cars for EVs. (Unfortunately the Federal Government has slapped tariffs on the affordable Chinese EVs – consider writing to MP Ruff to demand that our automakers manufacture affordable EVs within the next year.) Next up we need to switch our banking to the credit unions who do not finance oil and gas. Finally, we need to pressure the Federal Government to stop subsidizing the oil and gas industry and allocate more financing to fund the energy transition. And of course let the Feds know that we like our carbon rebates and appreciate the fact that the Carbon Tax IS working to reduce emissions.
The debate over the carbon tax is valid, but we must strive for solutions that not only focus on short-term costs but also on long-term benefits for our planet and future generations. At this point every 0.1 degree of warming matters.
Thank you for providing a platform for this important discussion.
Sincerely,
Melissa Tervit, Meaford
