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- Climate
Where we are today:
The BC Liberal government has put into law a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 33 per cent by 2020. To support that goal, B.C. has undertaken one of the most comprehensive climate action strategies in North America, including a revenue-neutral carbon tax on pollution and is working to establish a cap-and-trade system to put a limit on industrial emissions. At the same time, we’ve invested millions to develop alternative energy technologies and support energy-efficiency in schools, communities and other sectors.
Challenges and Opportunities:
An economy built on cheap energy and pollution without consequence is now a thing of the past. As the world moves to a low-carbon economy, B.C. has the opportunity to be at the forefront of ‘green’ technology and innovation. The green tech sector in B.C. is now comprised of about 250 companies employing about 3,700 people, and is growing at an annual rate of 11 per cent. If climate change is left unchecked, there’s a potential for enormous impacts on health, safety and our economy.
Discussion:
How can government support British Columbians to reduce their personal carbon footprint and save energy, fuel and money? Where should support be directed to build B.C.’s alternative energy sector and green technology development? And what advantages should British Columbia capitalize on to allow it to lead the world’s new green economy?
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