In light of Manitoba’s harsh wildfire season and prolonged drought, over two dozen environmental organizations are urging the provincial government to invest more in climate solutions in the upcoming budget. They gathered at the legislature to present a letter highlighting the urgent need for enhanced funding in energy efficiency, public transport, and land and water protection.
Laura Cameron, director of Climate Action Team Manitoba, expressed deep concern. She noted that the current situation is among the worst climate impacts the province has ever faced, with a particularly alarming 2025 fire season connected to ongoing drought conditions that have negatively affected Manitoba Hydro’s revenues. The message is clear: delaying action means things will only worsen.
The letter, initiated by Climate Action Team Manitoba, received signatures from 26 groups and was addressed to key officials, including Premier Wab Kinew. When the province introduced its climate strategy in October, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050 through a mix of decarbonization, electrification, and conservation, many advocates praised the vision but criticized the lack of solid funding and deadlines.
Since that announcement, the province has allocated $72 million for emissions-reduction projects. In contrast, almost $1.5 billion has been spent on extending the gas tax holiday and constructing highways. Meanwhile, Manitoba Hydro plans to invest $3 billion in a new gas-fired power plant. Cameron pointed out that significant action is needed to reach substantial emissions reductions by 2030, just a short five years away.
To address household energy bills and create green jobs, the letter calls for increased investment in Efficiency Manitoba and other energy-saving initiatives. According to Niall Harney, a senior researcher at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, investments in building retrofits can generate local jobs at a higher rate than most energy system investments.
Elizabeth Adewale from Sustainable Building Manitoba noted that the building sector accounts for about one-third of the province’s energy use and carbon emissions. Expanding energy efficiency programs could ease the burden on the power grid, lower homeowner costs, and help stimulate the construction and manufacturing sectors.
The letter emphasizes the importance of public transit as a key strategy for cutting emissions and reducing pollution. James Van Gerwen, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1505, stated that effective public transportation can make daily life more affordable.
Additional recommendations include increasing funds for urban, intercity, and rural transit, restoring the city’s 50-50 transit funding partnership, and boosting funding for active transportation initiatives.
Organizations also recommend that the province enhance staffing in the Parks branch and develop a fund to support Indigenous nations in land and water conservation efforts. Ron Thiessen, executive director of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society’s Manitoba chapter, stressed that protecting nature is a smart, long-term investment. Healthy ecosystems ensure safe drinking water, reduce climate risk, and bolster local economies through tourism.
While Thiessen acknowledged some progress, like establishing a conservation area in the Seal River Watershed, he noted that previous budgets have often lacked the resources necessary to meet the goal of conserving 30% of lands and waters by 2030.
In response, Minister Mike Moyes indicated that the environment department is prepared to roll out detailed emissions reduction plans soon. He expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with these organizations, highlighting that his department’s staffing has already increased.
The call for climate solutions continues to resonate among Manitobans, as public awareness grows about the link between environmental policies and everyday life.
For more information, you can refer to resources like the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives and the Government of Manitoba’s Reporting on Climate Strategy.
