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I have a hard time understanding how a carbon tax will incentivize me to reduce my propane use unless we freeze. Getting a government rebate so that my net cost is zero seems like a paper exercise. The carbon tax is also subject to HST – a tax on a tax – and should be removed. Heating our house is not a luxury.
Rémi Guertin, Carlsbad Springs
Let’s campaign for ‘made in Canada’ goods
Our prime minister seeks to save the world on the backs of Canadians. To that end, might I suggest another carbon reduction plan? Stop buying products made in China.
The West has allowed and encouraged China to become the world’s factory. Yet I don’t believe China cares about emissions targets, workers’ rights or human rights. As a result, I try to buy “made in Canada,” but, alas, it seems impossible.
The next time you go to Canadian Tire, Walmart or any other large retailer, look at where the item was made. Too often I find it’s China.
Imagine if we started demanding our retailers stock products made in Canada? It would be good for the environment. Millions of tonnes of carbon would cease to be emitted from smokestacks in China. Gone would be the carbon emitted from countless aircraft and oceangoing ships laden with containers from China. The carbon belching into the atmosphere from thousands of tractor trailers shipping boxes from seaports to the delivery bays of mega stores? Kaput.
I’d happily pay more for goods made by Canadians knowing I’m supporting people who share the same values I have about human rights, dignity, equality and environmental stewardship.
So may I challenge my fellow Canadians? Write a letter to the head of your favourite retailer and tell them: they need to start sourcing and buying goods made in Canada, because you want to help Canada’s economy, and help save the planet.
Wayne Sollows, Ottawa
