CAC Welcomes Ontario Mandate for Low-Carbon Fuels

Minister's Mandate Letter Commits to 2014 Deadline for New Fuel Regulation

OTTAWA, Sept. 26, 2014 /CNW/ - The Cement Association of Canada (CAC) strongly supports the Ontario government's renewed commitment to develop "new alternative fuel rules in 2014 to help big, energy-intensive industries reduce their GHG emissions."

The commitment forms part of Premier Kathleen Wynne's mandate letter to Environment and Climate Change Minister Glen Murray, and is a key element of the government's plan for "Moving Forward on Climate Change."  The pledge to complete the regulation by the end of this year suggests they are taking development of the new rules seriously.

"Premier Wynne's government is demonstrating leadership on climate change, promoting solutions that are good for both the environment and the economy," says CAC President and CEO Michael McSweeney.  "We look forward to working with Minister Murray and the environmental community to continue our industry's progress on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants."

The cement industry is eager to continue its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  Shifting to lower-carbon fuels is the single most effective mechanism to achieve these emissions reductions.  Bringing Ontario's regulatory framework for alternative fuels in line with leading practices globally will help provide the certainty needed to support significant investments in Ontario's plants, bridge the gap with Europe and other jurisdictions (where fuel substitution rates are over ten times higher than in Ontario), and make a significant contribution to Ontario's GHG reductions goal. 

In May 2014, the government undertook a consultation to provide the needed clarity in a new regulation.  The proposal enjoys the support of many environmental and health organizations. 

The Cement Association of Canada (CAC) represents the Canadian cement industry, and strives to maintain a sustainable industry as well as promote and advance the economic, environmental and societal benefits of building with cement and concrete.

SOURCE: Cement Association of Canada

Lyse Teasdale, Director, Communications, Cement Association of Canada, [email protected], C: 613-809-0517