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Hamilton's First Carbon Budget to Launch in 2027
16 Jun
Summary
- Hamilton will implement its first carbon budget in 2027.
- The budget aims to limit the city's carbon emissions to combat global warming.
- A pilot program will test the budget on select divisions and projects.
The City of Hamilton is set to introduce its inaugural carbon budget in 2027, marking a pivotal move in its commitment to mitigating global warming. This budget will establish a cap on the city's total carbon emissions, allowing for a more integrated assessment of climate impacts alongside financial planning.
A pilot phase will commence during the 2027 budget process, concentrating on select city divisions and capital projects exceeding $250,000. This trial aims to refine the budgeting approach before its comprehensive rollout.
This new policy aligns with Hamilton's 2019 declaration of a climate change emergency and its subsequent Climate Action Strategy. The strategy was a direct response to escalating local climate hazards, including severe flooding and erosion.
Corporate emissions, encompassing waste and the city's fleet, are estimated at 422,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Community-wide emissions are projected at 53 million tonnes. These figures are aligned with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 C, with an ultimate target of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Residents have voiced support for the carbon budget, with some advocating for robust climate action. Discussions also touched upon the use of carbon offsets and credits, a policy deemed necessary by city staff to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
