How Does the Budget Help Stop Climate Change?

Deciding to run for office in 2025 stands as one of the most challenging choices I have ever made. It required transitioning from my role as an environmentalist, where I enjoyed the freedom to champion bold, visionary ideas, related to climate change and conservation, to the world of politics which requires weighing every decision against its immediate and long term impact on everyone in our riding. Though I was not successful in that election, the experience of visiting our communities and engaging with residents profoundly transformed my understanding of governance, politics, social justice, and climate leadership.

I continue to hold deep respect for my friends and former colleagues who relentlessly advocate for stronger climate action and nature protection. Their ambitious thinking, ability to engage Canadians, and unwavering drive inspires politicians to strive for greater progress. I am sincerely grateful for their ongoing dedication and commitment.

However, my experience in politics (albeit limited) gave me clearer insight into the complex context within which politicians operate. When the livelihoods of small towns are threatened by tariffs, when tax dollars are needed to support vulnerable populations, and when diverging perspectives risk dividing neighbours or levels of government, decision-making becomes not only more complex but also more urgent. The reality is that solutions required today do not always align perfectly with the long-term future many of us envision. This is particularly true right now as we strive to reshape our economy, protect workers, and make life more affordable in the face of a trade war with the US while staring in the face of climate change.

My aspirations remain unchanged: I want a climate-safe future for my children and protected natural spaces that can sustain us for generations.  I also understand that decision makers will only have the mandate to get us to that future if communities in North Island Powell River and across Canada are thriving.

I believe Budget 2025 rises to meet this moment. It is designed to accelerate our economy within the current national and international landscape, fostering a more resilient economy, creating jobs, and maintaining the social services Canadians rely on while striving to keep us on track to our emissions targets. Central to this effort is the Climate Competitiveness Strategy, which aims to ensure that emission reduction measures support both our economic objectives and our climate commitments.

Here are some of the highlights:

Emissions Cap, Industrial Pricing, and Methane Regulations - The previous Liberal government made a commitment to cap emissions from the oil and gas sector, which remains the largest source of emissions in Canada. This policy faced significant opposition from certain provinces and industry groups, creating real divisions within our country. The current Carney government is prepared to remove the emissions cap, provided that the industrial carbon price is strengthened and improved methane regulations are finalized. In practical terms, if provinces collaborate with the federal government to make these policies more ambitious, the emissions cap will become unnecessary, reducing regulatory burdens and fostering better federal-provincial relations—while still achieving the same emissions reductions.

Clean Energy Transition - Canada is already a leader in clean energy, particularly in provinces like British Columbia. However, provinces such as Alberta and Saskatchewan still rely on coal and natural gas for electricity generation. Budget 2025 reaffirms Canada's commitment to implementing Clean Electricity Regulations (CER), aiming for a dramatic reduction in emissions by 2035 and a net-zero grid by 2050. To encourage investment in clean power, the government will introduce a Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit and provide clarity for businesses so they can begin planning for upcoming legislation.

Sustainable Investment Framework - Building a clean economy requires investors to clearly identify sustainable opportunities. Budget 2025 renews the commitment to develop a made-in-Canada sustainable investment taxonomy by the end of 2026. This system will classify investments as “green” or “transition,” guiding investors toward choices that support a sustainable future. The government will also collaborate with provinces and territories to strengthen climate disclosure—ensuring companies publicly report how they are preparing for the climate challenges of tomorrow.

Youth Climate Corps - In line with earlier promises, Budget 2025 allocates $40 million for a two-year pilot Youth Climate Corps program. This initiative will provide young Canadians with well-paying jobs focused on emissions reduction and climate resilience, equipping them with the skills needed for the future. It is a program that youth have been calling for and represents a meaningful step forward.

What’s Missing from Budget 2025:

Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy: The existing Electric Vehicle Availability Standard,  mandates a percentage of vehicle sales from each car dealership be electric or plug-in hybrid, thereby making it easier for consumers to test drive and purchase EVs. Earlier this year, the government hit pause while they conduct a review of the policy and impacts from the tariffs. The government is expected to announce the results of their review and recommendations soon. To remain on track for 100% EV sales by 2035, the revised policy must be ambitious, and reinstating the EV rebate would further support consumer adoption.

Greater emissions reductions: When this government cancelled the consumer carbon price, it responded to the concerns of Canadians around affordability. However, this policy was effective at reducing emissions and nothing in the Budget was announced to replace it.  The Prime Minister made it clear that this Budget was about getting the economy back on track but he will soon need to present Canadians with new policies that ensure we meet our target of 50% reduction in emissions by 2035 (compared to 2005 levels).

Nature Conservation Funding: This budget does not include new funding for nature conservation. I stood with the Prime Minister during the election when he pledged more parks and greater marine conservation. I remain confident in his commitment to protecting our natural world, not only to safeguard the places we love  but also to protect the ecosystems that sustain us.  I expect we will  see a nature strategy announced in the future, and the sooner, the better.

When it comes to stopping climate change, Budget 2025 prioritizes the most effective climate policies and works to align them with the economic plan. I have no doubt the Prime Minister will deliver on more climate policies in the future but for now, the balance struck in this Budget meets the Canadian public where they are at. And in these uncertain times, that is good leadership.