Municipalities are key partners in implementing Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan

TORONTO, June 8, 2016 /CNW/ - Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan released today makes it clear that municipal governments have a key role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

"Municipal governments are at the forefront of managing and addressing climate change," said Gary McNamara, AMO President. "We are asking that the Province work together with us on the transition required to implement the Plan. This will help municipal governments and the province reach emission targets faster and more effectively."

Municipalities show proactive leadership on climate change action at the local level by regularly investing in infrastructure that helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and helps communities adapt to climate change. This includes public transit, resilient road, bridge and water systems, renewable energy projects, efficient municipal buildings and more.

While municipal governments have a role to play, they need the financial support do it effectively.

"We need to be able to access the cap and trade revenue that underpins this Plan," said Gary McNamara. "Relying on the nine cents of every household tax dollar won't get us there. Municipal governments' ability to achieve the Plan's goals will only be as good as their financial capacity.  Leadership is there, but we need other supports."

Municipal governments own most of Canada's infrastructure and also provide the services that people use most often. This infrastructure can play a major role in reducing emissions and improving quality of life in our communities.

AMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments. AMO supports and enhances strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario and Canada's political system.

SOURCE Association of Municipalities of Ontario

Brian Lambie, AMO Media Contact, 416-729-5425, [email protected], Follow AMO on Twitter: @AMOPolicy