The chemistry industry: a key contributor to achieving Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan objectives

OTTAWA, June 9, 2016 /CNW/ - Ontario's new Climate Change Action Plan 2016-2020 sends an important signal that the climate change challenge cannot be achieved solely through the cap and trade program targeting Ontario's manufacturing sector, which accounts for less than 30 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the province.

This new plan clearly states that success will depend on achieving emissions reductions in other areas of Ontario's economy, notably the buildings and transportation sectors. Together, these sectors account for over 60 per cent of the province's emissions.

"Ontario's chemistry sector is critical to achieving Ontario's climate change objectives," says CIAC President and CEO Bob Masterson. As Responsible Care® companies, CIAC members have already reduced GHG emissions by 69 per cent since 1992 through significant investments in process and product re-engineering, energy efficiency and low carbon feedstock substitution. "Realizing further improvements from manufacturing operations, however, will require Ontario to enhance and maintain the investment climate in the province during the roll out of the cap and trade program."

Today, more than 95 per cent of all manufactured products rely on chemistry. Chemistry solutions are, for example, essential to improving building insulation, lightweighting vehicles, and in the production of solar and wind energy equipment, all of which contribute to reducing carbon emissions.

Ontario's chemistry industry shares the province's objective of addressing climate change while continuing to create jobs and prosperity.

"The industry looks forward to being a valuable contributor in implementing Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan and engaging with the government and other stakeholders in the continued implementation of a viable cap and trade program for Ontario manufacturing, post-2020."

The Chemistry Industry Association of Canada (CIAC) is the voice of Canada's chemistry industry and represents more than 50 members and partners across the country. The chemistry industry is a $53 billion industry, employing 85,000 Canadians and supporting another 425,000 jobs in Canada. Members of CIAC are signatories to Responsible Care® – the association's U.N.-recognized sustainability initiative.

SOURCE Chemistry Industry Association of Canada

Erika Adams, Director, Communications, 613-237-6215 Ext. 241