Canada's pollution pricing system creates incentives for industries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions; drives innovation and sustainable business practices; and fosters a cleaner, more environmentally responsible future.
Through the Decarbonization Incentive Program, the Government of Canada returns a portion of the proceeds collected from the federal pollution price on large industrial emitters to support clean technology projects. This funding will enable eligible facilities to achieve greater energy efficiency, adopt sustainable solutions, and reduce their emissions to support the transition to a low-carbon world.
Today, the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, announced on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, an investment of approximately $9 million from pollution pricing proceeds in three Ontario universities through the Decarbonization Incentive Program. McMaster University, York University, and Western University will use this funding to undertake critical infrastructure improvements that directly tackle carbon emissions across their campuses. Together, these projects will cut over 35,000 tonnes of emissions in 2030.
McMaster University will receive $2,087,600 to reduce its natural gas usage for campus heating through the installation of electric boilers. Similarly, Western University will receive $4,745,000 for a four-year project to replace natural gas boilers with electric steam boilers. York University will receive $2,080,000 to upgrade its energy management system to make its heating and cooling more energy efficient.
By investing pollution pricing proceeds in these forward-thinking institutions, the Government of Canada is supporting their efforts to transition to lower-cost, renewable energy sources. Ultimately, this will benefit Canadians and communities across the nation, as cleaner air and reduced emissions contribute to improved health and well-being for all citizens.
The Government of Canada remains committed to addressing climate change and recognizes the vital role that academic institutions play in driving meaningful solutions through environmental leadership. Through partnerships and projects like these ones, the Government of Canada can accelerate collective efforts to build a sustainable and prosperous future for all Canadians.
