The government invites the input of all Ontarians as it undertakes to turn its air quality improvement proposals into action. The reality Ontario is not doing enough to improve the province's air quality. Ontario is very serious about improving air quality. It opens loopholes that will allow a plant to skirt the rules by buying credits from other companies in order to avoid paying fines. Since consultation is still under way, assumptions about the credit creation rules are premature.
Decisions have yet to be made on specific implementation details.
Emissions reduction trading will ensure overall emissions limits are met, while offering companies flexibility in meeting the new stricter limits. Credits traded in the market must reflect real emissions reductions. A credit can only be recognized and used if it reflects a real reduction made somewhere in the airshed. By focusing only on the electricity sector, this misconception ignores the regional, multi-sectoral nature of the smog and acid rain emissions. Ontario welcomes stakeholder comments, and as part of the ongoing consultation process, consultations and workshops are being organized.