3. The Solution
In 2008, the BC government has the opportunity to demonstrate its world-class commitments on climate change by passing a World Class Climate Budget.
To meet this test, the 2008 BC Budget would include:
- A revenue-neutral Carbon Tax that provides the opportunity for British Columbians to pay less overall taxes when they make better choices for the climate.
- Major investments in transportation infrastructure and operating expenses to significantly address the 40% of emissions related to transportation in the province.
- Direct expenditures on programs that allow citizens and businesses to upgrade privately held capital such as energy retrofits on buildings and fee-bates for energy-efficient vehicle purchases.
- Support for public education, outreach and consultation in the development of plans to reduce emissions.
- The phasing out of all subsidies for fossil fuel extraction.
- Establishing a legacy fund for an escalating portion of oil and gas revenues that recognizes both the environmental damage and non-renewable nature of these industries.