What's going on with the environment?
News from the Greater Innisfil Chamber of Commerce

For the first time in decades we've seen the environment bubble to the top of the public opinion agenda. Climate change, Kyoto and concerns about greenhouse gases have captured the imaginations of individuals, businesses, the media and governments alike.

Businesses in Innisfil and across the province are watching with interest as clean air plans are unveiled. New legislation and regulations are bound to have an impact on the way businesses are run and operated, just as they will likely affect the way households approach day-to-day living.

Federal regulations will limit greenhouse gas emissions through mandatory reductions in various industries including oil and gas, forestry, electricity produced by combustion, iron and steel, cement and some mining sectors.

Companies failing to meet the standards will face penalties. A federal plan puts in place that a national target is to reduce smog by 50% by 2015.

It also commits to stop the rise in greenhouse gas emissions within 5 years and to reduce them by 18% by 2010 and 2% annually thereafter.

Programs are needed that produce realistic, continuous progress.

Most businesses are open to exploring ways to reduce their footprint, but they can not absorb dramatic changes overnight. Instead, changes should be phased-in and must measurably improve air quality.

The Greater Innisfil Chamber of Commerce will continue to promote consultation and dialogue, and to encourage consistency so that we can all achieve the right balance between economic and environmental sustainability.