It’s been a few busy days at the BC Legislature, with Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin delivering the speech from the throne and the B.C. Government announcing the 2024 provincial budget all in one week. Both shared the provincial government’s vision for a stronger B.C., and acknowledged that “the world is moving to a clean energy future” and that in B.C., “we have what it takes to succeed.” Here are a few highlights that caught CICE’s attention.
B.C. is taking action to build a cleaner, stronger economy in partnership with First Nations and industry, while training people for in-demand jobs and creating more opportunities. Budget 2024 provides $1.3 billion for new measures to help mitigate and better respond to the impacts of climate emergencies, build a cleaner economy and address the challenges people are facing right now.
The Throne Speech called attention to the devastating and intensifying effects of climate change on the people and resources of B.C., including wildfires, floods and extreme heat, and the requisite to work in partnership with First Nations and communities on the front lines to prepare and adapt. The budgetary response is a $405 million investment over four years towards the preparation for and response to climate emergencies.
Budget 2024 also reaffirms B.C.’s commitment to lead on climate action and sustainable job growth with $435 million for CleanBC and clean economy initiatives, including advancing the new made-in-B.C. Critical Mineral Strategy. $318 million is allocated towards continuing to fund grant and rebate programs for clean transportation, energy-efficient building and communities, and the transition to a low-carbon economy.
In summary, B.C. continues to drive towards a clean, fair and prosperous economy that works for all British Columbians. CICE is proud to align with the vision of a stronger, cleaner economy, enhancing B.C.’s cleantech innovation advantage – from Canada to the world. We will continue to leverage B.C.’s abundant natural resources and world-class clean energy sector to attract global investment, build and retain IP, create good jobs and ensure that our province “grows not in spite of climate action, but because of it.”