The City of Gatineau is working on a tool called the Climate Test to evaluate the impact of its projects on the environment. However, a key element is missing: it won’t measure greenhouse gas emissions, which are crucial for understanding a project’s climate footprint.
This critique comes from Action climat Outaouais (ACO), a volunteer group that has monitored Gatineau’s Climate Plan since its launch. The plan, introduced in October 2021, aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35% from 2015 levels by 2030. It also targets halving emissions from city operations and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. So far, it has been supported by a $25 million grant from the Quebec government.
Gatineau presented a draft of the Climate Test to the city council committee in September 2025. ACO’s report highlights that the city currently lacks a tool to ensure its projects align with the Climate Plan. This gap is critical, especially since about 70% of the city’s emissions come from transportation and buildings. ACO argues that it’s essential to calculate emissions, particularly for these sectors.
The proposed testing system would categorize a project as green, yellow, or red, encouraging thorough examination rather than just aiming for a passing score. However, ACO is skeptical about this approach. They believe the tool, which will only be implemented within city hall at first, doesn’t reach the broader community, where most emissions originate.
Recent data shows that emissions in Gatineau actually rose from 2015 to 2021. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of the current action plan. As the plan is set to be renewed in 2026, ACO is urging the city auditor general to evaluate the initial phase thoroughly before drafting a new strategy.
Some experts emphasize that without tracking emissions, it’s hard to assess real progress. According to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology, cities that actively measure and report their emissions tend to perform better in meeting sustainability goals.
With the urgency of climate change, ensuring that Gatineau creates a more effective Climate Test is crucial. By integrating necessary metrics, the city can better direct its efforts and make informed decisions to protect the environment.
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