Ontario’s Climate Goals at Risk: Internal Documents Challenge Minister’s Promises on 2030 Targets

Ontario’s climate goals are in jeopardy, according to civil servants who have informed new Environment Minister Todd McCarthy that the province likely won’t meet its 2030 target of a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 levels.

In a briefing obtained through a freedom of information request, it was revealed that Ontario may see emissions exceed the target by three megatonnes. While the province has made strides in cutting emissions since 2022, it is projected to reduce them to about 145 megatonnes by 2030—still short of the goal of 142 megatonnes.

This news seems to clash with McCarthy’s earlier statements. In June, when questioned about climate targets, he confidently claimed that Ontario was on track to meet its goals, praising the policies put in place by Premier Doug Ford. His office, however, did not directly address the discrepancies between his statements and the civil service’s warnings.

There’s a growing concern about Ontario’s climate strategy. Since Ford’s administration began, the province has loosened regulations and halted key programs, like the cap-and-trade initiative. Greenpeace’s Keith Stewart argues that the government’s focus on new highways and the cancellation of renewable energy contracts has hindered any serious progress on climate change.

Critics like NDP environment critic Peter Tabuns and Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner stress that Ontario’s climate targets have always been weak. They argue that failing to reach even these minimal benchmarks is alarming. “The Ford government is like an arsonist pouring more fuel on the fire,” Schreiner remarked, emphasizing the urgent need for a more robust plan to combat climate change.

Recent data highlights that climate change impacts are becoming more severe across Canada. A report released by Statistics Canada noted that extreme weather events have increased noticeably over the past decade, causing economic and ecological disruptions. Many young people, frustrated by their government’s inaction on climate issues, are voicing their concerns more publicly, fostering discussions on social media about environmental responsibility and accountability.

Experts suggest that the government must pivot toward renewable energy and sustainable practices. Aliénor Rougeot from Environmental Defence suggests that Ontario could enhance public transit, retrofitting buildings, and transitioning to clean energy to align with climate targets.

It’s clear: the challenge for Ontario isn’t just about hitting targets. It’s about making meaningful changes that will impact the province’s future and the well-being of its residents. The clock is ticking, and citizens are watching.



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