The London, Ontario area is experiencing rapid population growth. Some of the most talented and ambitious people from both inside Canada and abroad choose to make the region their home. The newcomers are an essential addition to the community, as they add to the cultural fabric and economic competitiveness of Elgin-Middlesex. Policymakers must ensure adequate infrastructure, from roads to schools to parks, to support that population. That also means ensuring enough housing is built to meet this increasing demand.

N₂O emissions are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Canada’s agricultural sector and the federal government has set a national target to reduce GHG emissions from nitrogen fertilizers by 4 megatonnes by 2030 - the time to act is now. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s February 2022 Discussion paper on the target recognizes that while current approaches are ‘moving the needle,’ new policies and programs will be needed to achieve this ambitious target.

As the world moves towards net-zero, Canada needs to position its industries for success in the 21st century global green economy. Otherwise, Canada will be left behind by the strategic efforts of other countries, with real consequences for our future prosperity.

The current approach to clean competitiveness is a good start, but we need a more focused and strategic approach. Instead, Canada should bring together firms, investors, governments and experts. Together, they can co-develop roadmaps that form the basis of industrial strategies.