Money a motivator for climate action

Columnists and readers continually express concerns regarding climate change and criticisms of the carbon tax. The science is clear and the evidence is irrefutable. If left unchecked, the effects of climate change are seriously altering the environment and damaging our ecosystems, which may soon be irreversible.

It is costing our provincial government hundreds of millions of dollars to rescue farmers and ranchers and fight forest fires with billions of dollars yet to be spent for a questionable irrigation project driven by ongoing drought. Instituting change is difficult and changing behaviour even more so.

Doing the right thing for the right reasons does not usually motivate most industries nor the average citizen to alter behaviour.

Whether the carbon tax and rebate system is the best motivator for carbon reduction is debatable. However, money talks and the best motivator for change always comes down to money through either penalties or incentives. Our household strives to maintain a low carbon footprint.

We drive our primary fuel-efficient vehicle for shopping and commuting. We use active transportation as much as possible for smaller errands throughout the year.

We conserve water usage and have upgraded furnace, water heater, light and plumbing fixtures, home insulation and maintain the temperature at 20 C to 21 C in the winter and 23 C to 24 C in the summer.

Consequently, we benefit financially from carbon tax and rebates, but believe there may be other solutions and incentives to motivate people to reduce carbon footprints. If the world does not change and adapt soon, our children, grandchildren and future generations will inherit a terribly painful legacy. Terry Neefs, Saskatoon