Farah Gulzar
"Ottawa needs a clear, measurable and accountable path toward its net-zero commitments. Long-term climate goals should be translated into specific actions, timelines, budgets and measurable targets, with regular public reporting on progress.
I would prioritize practical measures that reduce emissions while also improving affordability and quality of life. This includes improving building energy efficiency, supporting energy-efficient homes and businesses, expanding clean transportation options, reducing unnecessary car dependency, and increasing the use of renewable and low-carbon energy where feasible.
The City should also lead by example by improving the energy efficiency of municipal buildings, facilities and operations and by considering life-cycle costs when making major infrastructure and energy decisions.
Climate action must be financially responsible and equitable. Residents should not be left behind because they cannot afford the upfront cost of energy improvements or cleaner transportation.
Ottawa should measure progress openly, report results to residents, and adjust its approach when targets are not being met."
Shawn Menard
"Climate change is the greatest threat facing Ottawa, and city council must act accordingly. That means taking bold steps to reduce emissions in Ottawa, especially in our highest emitting sectors: buildings and transportation. Over my years as councillor, I have helped to grow our annual Climate Change Master Plan budget from unstable Hydro allocations of $1 million per year to $6 million in annual permanent funding. I am proud of this work but will be the first to acknowledge that more is needed.
We helped launch Ottawa’s first electric bus pilot which will see hundreds of Zero-Emission Buses in operation by the end of 2027 and passed the first modernized Idling Bylaw since 2007.
The city has to increase retrofits in city buildings to mitigate emissions and achieve operational savings. However, we can’t do this work alone. We have to advocate for upper tier levels of government to do their part and provide funding for these critical undertakings- emissions know no jurisdiction so if they want to meet their emissions reductions goals they have to step and help us reach ours.
Expanding and preserving our city tree canopy will not only make our city more beautiful and more livable but it is also a critical aspect of any credible emissions mitigation strategy.
We support the creation of renewables in Ottawa, including battery energy storage systems (BESS). Our city is filled with brilliant innovators—we should listen to what the experts are telling us is possible and support that work when it contributes to reducing emissions here and across Canada.
Unfortunately, the province has tied our hands on being able to require new builds to be off natural gas, but I would love to see more support from the city for residents to be able to switch their homes to renewable energy."