Climate

Saturday June 21, 2025

As Canada grapples with trade tensions, wildfire threats, and climate neglect, the promise of summer offers a glimmer of hope and respite.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday June 21, 2025

Tariffs, Flames, and Summer Games: A Season of Surprises

December 20, 2022

As the summer solstice approaches on June 21, 2025, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment marked by significant political and environmental timelines. This longest day of the year, with its promise of extended daylight and warmer days, serves as a powerful metaphor for the varied and often conflicting timelines that shape our current reality.

In Canada, the government’s response to U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum has been met with criticism from industry leaders. Prime Minister Mark Carney has outlined a 30-day window to adjust counter-tariffs, dependent on progress in trade negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration. This timeline reflects an urgent need to protect Canadian industries while dealing with the complexities of international diplomacy. However, the Canadian steel producers and workers express dissatisfaction, arguing that the measures fall short of addressing the crisis.

News: Steel industry groups say Carney’s retaliatory plan for U.S. tariffs ‘falls short’

Ontario's Bills 5 and 14, alongside federal Bill C-5, raise concerns about the lack of meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities, risking economic progress and trust.

June 17, 2025

Simultaneously, the passage of Bill C-5 looms large, threatening to strain relations between the Canadian government and First Nations communities. The Assembly of First Nations has voiced strong opposition, citing inadequate consultation and potential infringement on treaty rights. The potential for a “long, hot summer” of protests highlights the urgency and gravity of this issue.

Across the border, President Trump’s penchant for two-week timelines has become a hallmark of his administration. Whether it’s decisions on Iran, trade policies, or domestic issues, this timeline often serves as a placeholder, creating uncertainty and anticipation. While it allows for strategic flexibility, it also leaves allies and adversaries alike in a state of limbo, uncertain of the U.S.’s next moves.

News: A familiar metric: White House says to expect Iran decision within ‘two weeks’

July 29, 2023

As we stand on the cusp of summer, these timelines intersect with the broader context of a warming climate. Recent scenes of hellacious wildfires in Canada’s western provinces have underscored the immediate and devastating impact of climate change. These fires have ravaged landscapes and communities, serving as a stark reminder that more such events are likely in the months to come. The season brings with it the expected perils of wildfires, heatwaves, and extreme weather, underscoring the need for decisive action on climate change.

Disturbingly, despite the G7 meeting taking place just a few hundred kilometres from the whiffs of burning embers, the topic of climate change was not even offered up for discussion. This omission highlights a glaring disconnect between the urgent realities on the ground and the political agenda at the highest levels.

Trump's early departure from the G7 Summit raises questions about U.S. commitment to global affairs and leaves other leaders to navigate critical discussions without him.

June 18, 2025

Yet, amid these challenges, there remains the hope and anticipation of summer vacations—a respite from the weight of decision-making and the relentless pace of news cycles. This summer, as we face these varied timelines, we are reminded of the delicate balance between urgency and patience, between action and reflection. The solstice, with its ancient traditions and astronomical significance, offers a moment to pause and consider how we can align our timelines with the natural rhythms of the Earth.

News: When is the summer solstice and what is it?

In a world fraught with uncertainty, the promise of warmer days and longer evenings invites us to find solace in the simple pleasures of summer. Whether it’s a moment of quiet reflection at dawn, a gathering with friends around a bonfire, or a long-anticipated vacation, let us embrace the season with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. As we await the decisions that will shape our future, may we find the courage to act with wisdom and the grace to savour the present.

Friday June 13, 2025

The G7 summit in Kananaskis sees U.S. President Donald Trump as the focal point amidst critical discussions on trade and global stability, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney steering diplomatic efforts.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday June 13, 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Summit Spectacle: Trump Takes Centre Stage in Kananaskis

May 24, 2017

As the world turns its gaze to the picturesque setting of Kananaskis, Alberta, for the G7 summit, one figure looms large over the proceedings: U.S. President Donald Trump. His return to the White House has reignited debates and discussions on the global stage, making him both a spectacle and a source of unpredictability. Trump embodies the drama and uncertainty that have become hallmarks of international summits. While some might argue that his unpredictability overshadows substantive discussion, it is precisely this unpredictability that lends the summit its dramatic tension. The world watches, curious to see if his penchant for bold declarations will translate into tangible agreements or merely more rhetoric.

In contrast, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney plays the role of a steady host, orchestrating the event with a focus on finding common ground amidst chaos. Carney’s strategy, as reported, avoids the traditional joint communiqué, opting instead for a G7 chair’s statement. This move suggests a pragmatic approach to diplomacy, one that acknowledges the complexities of reaching consensus in a group as diverse as the G7. By facilitating dialogue rather than dictating terms, Carney may well steer the summit towards meaningful outcomes.

News: Why there is hope of a Carney-Trump tariff breakthrough

The upcoming G7 summit in Italy, amidst discussions on pressing global issues, highlights the challenges posed by the rise of far-right regimes, prompting urgent calls for progressive solutions and international cooperation.

June 13, 2024

The agenda for this summit is as varied as it is pressing. Trade and tariffs are front and centre, with global economic growth stymied by ongoing trade tensions. There is hope that discussions between Carney and Trump might yield concessions, particularly in light of a draft economic and security agreement that hints at potential breakthroughs. However, skepticism remains. Beyond economics, the summit will tackle broader geopolitical issues, such as the conflict in Ukraine and China’s global influence. These discussions are crucial for international stability and cooperation.

Public opinion, as captured in reader comments, reflects a mix of hope and cynicism. While some doubt the summit’s potential for substantive outcomes, others see it as an opportunity for leaders to engage in crucial bilateral discussions. Many argue that the focus should extend beyond U.S. policies to encompass a wider range of global challenges, such as climate change and energy security.

News: We found out how Mark Carney hopes to smooth differences with Donald Trump at the G7 summit. Here’s what we know

June 15, 2021

As the G7 summit unfolds, it is poised to be a blend of spectacle and substance. Trump’s role as the star attraction adds an element of drama, but it is the collective efforts of leaders like Carney that may ultimately determine the summit’s success. In a world fraught with uncertainty, this gathering in the Canadian Rockies offers a stage for diplomacy, dialogue, and, hopefully, decisive action. Whether it will deliver on its promises or remain an exercise in political theatre is a question that only time will answer.

Friday June 6, 2025

Doug Ford's Bill 17 sidesteps environmental protections and local governance, prioritizing development at the cost of Ontario's sustainability.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday June 6, 2025

Also printed in the Toronto Star. Published on Reddit.

Doug Ford’s Bill 17 – Yet Another Step Backwards for Ontario’s Future

Premier Doug Ford's Bill 5, aimed at expediting mining in Ontario's Ring of Fire, faces backlash for lacking Indigenous consultation, echoing past missteps.

May 29 2025

Doug Ford is at it again, pushing through Bill 17, the “Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act,” with the same disregard for environmental protections that characterized his earlier attempts to dismantle the Greenbelt. Ford seems unfazed by previous voter backlash, perhaps feeling invincible with a third majority government—never mind that it was supported by less than half of the voting populace. It seems apathy has its price, and in this case, it’s a mediocre government that prioritizes quick wins over genuine progress.

Bill 17 epitomizes Ford’s governance style: quick fixes, shortcuts, and a focus on appeasing developers and well-connected allies at the expense of everyday Ontarians. By overriding local green building standards, this bill undermines cities like Toronto and Hamilton, which have been proactive in setting their own climate benchmarks. This disregard for local needs could lead to higher emissions and weaker climate defences in new developments.

Analysis: Ford government moves to override cities on green building standards

November 13, 2020

Adding insult to injury, Bill 5 complements this approach by cutting Indigenous communities out of the consultation process. Ford’s administration seems to have little interest in meaningful engagement, opting instead for expediency over respecting Indigenous rights and fostering true reconciliation.

This isn’t Ford’s first run-in with environmental neglect. His track record includes cancelling the Green Energy Act and the cap-and-trade program, decisions that not only forfeited potential revenue but also missed opportunities for sustainable job creation. Ford’s approach mirrors a wider trend where governments, both in Canada and the U.S., are rolling back environmental protections. Ottawa’s recent rollback of the carbon tax/rebate program is yet another example of this troubling regression.

This Halloween, the Government of Doug Ford grapples with renewed scrutiny over the Greenbelt scandal, as an unprecedented number of Minister's zoning orders (MZOs) stir concerns of favouritism towards developers, echoing past controversies and prompting calls for increased transparency in the process.

October 31, 2023

In Ontario, Ford’s frequent use of Ministerial Zoning Orders (MZOs) to fast-track development without public debate only further underscores his disdain for democratic processes. This tactic creates a shadowy parallel bureaucracy that lacks transparency and accountability.

The path Ford has chosen is one that turns back the clock on conservation and trivializes the impacts of climate change. It disenfranchises communities striving for sustainable growth. As Ontarians, we must demand better from our leaders. We deserve a government that values comprehensive reforms, respects environmental protections, and champions a sustainable future. Doug Ford’s Bill 17 and Bill 5 are steps in the wrong direction, and it’s crucial for the people of Ontario to demand more thoughtful and planet-focused policies.

Ford’s Familiar Tune

Here I am again, feeling like a broken record, lamenting yet another one of Doug Ford’s government’s anti-environmental moves. It seems like this is what we signed up for when less than half of the voting public handed him a third majority government. Sure, Ford played the Captain Canada role brilliantly, taking a strong stand against Trump earlier this year, and his dramatic flair continues to win him applause. But beneath that performative exterior, we’re stuck with the reality of what the next few years are likely to look like.

Ironically, Ford’s approach mirrors a “Trumpy” disregard for genuine consultation and environmental responsibility. It’s full steam ahead for his developer pals and provincial power brokers, with little concern for the impact on our planet. It’s almost amusing—almost—how he can be hailed as a brave critic of the U.S. President while simultaneously mirroring that same President’s approach when it comes to ignoring the climate crisis. It’s a frustrating echo, and one that I fear we’ll be hearing more of in the years to come.

Posted to Substack: Superhero of Developers. Please subscribe. It’s free!

Saturday May 31 2025

As wildfires intensify in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, contrasting leadership styles highlight different approaches to climate change and crisis management.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 31 2025

Prairie Flames: A Tale of Two Leaders

June 21, 2024

As wildfires blaze across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, we’re witnessing a stark contrast in how leaders are handling the crisis. The fires are starting earlier, burning hotter, and lasting longer, a sign of changing times tied to climate change. This situation highlights the different paths being taken by the premiers of these two provinces.

BBC: Western Canada wildfires emergency hits another province as thousands flee

June 8, 2023

In Saskatchewan, Premier Scott Moe is well-known for his support of the oil and gas industry. He argues that these industries are vital for the province’s economy. However, his focus on fossil fuels seems outdated when faced with the reality of more intense wildfires. Moe has resisted federal climate policies like carbon pricing, which some see as ignoring the root causes of these worsening fires.

On the other hand, Manitoba’s Premier Wab Kinew is taking a different approach. He has set ambitious goals to reduce emissions and shift towards renewable energy. Kinew’s response to the wildfire crisis includes taking swift action to protect communities, showing a clear understanding of the link between climate change and these natural disasters.

News: Saskatchewan declares state of emergency as wildfires force evacuations in western and central Canada

July 21, 2022

Kinew acknowledges the challenges of moving away from fossil fuels, but his willingness to address these issues head-on reflects a commitment to both the environment and the economy. His leadership suggests a balance between immediate action and long-term planning.

The fires ravaging these provinces remind us of the importance of leadership in the face of climate change. The choices made today will shape the future, and the contrasting approaches of Moe and Kinew offer insight into how different strategies can impact the fight against climate-related disasters. As the fires burn, the need for thoughtful and proactive leadership becomes ever more critical.

Giant Wildfires on the Prairie by The Graeme Gallery

Friday May 30, 2025

Read on Substack

Tuesday April 15, 2025

The 2025 Canadian election sees major parties sidestepping climate change, prioritizing immediate economic concerns while the urgency of the climate crisis remains unaddressed.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday April 15, 2025

Climate Change Takes a Backseat in Canada’s 2025 Election

Wednesday March 19, 2025

March 19, 2025

As Canadians head to the polls in 2025, the pressing issue of climate change seems to have been relegated to a whisper amidst the cacophony of economic concerns, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions. The two major parties, the Poilievre Conservatives and the Carney Liberals, have conspicuously sidestepped the climate crisis in their campaigns, raising critical questions about their commitment to addressing what remains one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Analysis: Election 2025: a voter’s guide to carbon taxes, natural resources and other key environment issues in Canada

In recent elections, climate change was at the forefront, with parties vying to present credible plans to reduce emissions and transition to a sustainable future. However, today, the political landscape has shifted dramatically. According to Vote Compass data, environmental issues have plummeted in voter priority, eclipsed by immediate economic pressures and Canada-U.S. relations. Yet, the urgency of the climate crisis has not diminished; it is merely overshadowed.

Pierre Poilievre's push for a carbon tax election is an opportunity for Canadians to confront the costs of climate inaction—but the debate must focus on real solutions, not just slogans.

September 25, 2024

The Conservatives’ Concerning Silence: Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives have adopted a strategy that sidesteps comprehensive climate policy. By framing climate change as a “global problem” and proposing Canadian LNG exports as a solution to reduce global coal usage, Poilievre avoids committing to domestic emissions targets. This absence of a solid, actionable plan is concerning and unacceptable. While economic growth and job creation are vital, they cannot come at the expense of ignoring a crisis that demands immediate and sustained action.

News: Climate change fades as a campaign issue as tariffs dominate federal election

Despite the increasing devastation caused by climate-fuelled hurricanes, backed by data proving dramatic temperature increases in the Gulf of Mexico, political denialism, lack of media attention in the United States, and a lack of courageous leadership continue to obstruct meaningful action on the climate crisis.

October 10, 2024

The Liberals’ Temporary Retreat: On the other side, Mark Carney’s Liberals have made a strategic retreat by eliminating the consumer carbon price. This move, influenced by public dissatisfaction and economic pressures, might be seen as a temporary concession—a pragmatic pause rather than a permanent shift. For those concerned about climate change, this decision is a double-edged sword: it alleviates immediate economic burdens but risks undermining long-term climate goals.

The hope remains that this pause is just that—temporary. The Liberals must return to the table with a robust communications strategy, one that clearly articulates the benefits of carbon pricing and other climate policies. The Trudeau Liberals’ rollout of the carbon tax was fraught with challenges, allowing the Poilievre Conservatives to hijack the narrative and cast it as a burden rather than a necessary step towards sustainability.

Analysis: In 2021, there was nearly a consensus on climate change. In 2025, Carney and Poilievre are far apart

Trudeau's unwavering support for carbon pricing in the face of opposition underscores its essential role in Canada's climate action, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's lack of a credible alternative, emphasizing the imperative for pragmatic solutions in confronting the urgent threat of climate change.

March 14, 2024

A Call for Courage and Clarity: The reluctance of both parties to address climate change head-on is a disservice to Canadians and future generations. While other issues understandably demand attention, the climate crisis cannot be perpetually postponed. It requires bold leadership and a commitment to transparent, effective policies that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The 2025 election should have been an opportunity to strengthen Canada’s resolve in fighting climate change, not a retreat into the shadows of political convenience. As voters, we must demand more from our leaders—a clear, unwavering commitment to a sustainable future. The time for silence is over; the climate cannot wait.

The Illusion that Climate Change is a Non-Issue – This cartoon is bound to ruffle feathers among both Liberal and Conservative partisans. Yet, as I’ve stated before and will reiterate, my allegiance is to truth, not to any political party. Editorial cartoonists should be impartial, challenging all sides equally. Our purpose is to provoke thought, which naturally may offend those with entrenched political loyalties.

Supporters of Pierre Poilievre might argue against the depiction of him as a climate denier, while Liberals may question why their leader is depicted alongside him. However, both leaders share a stance against the carbon tax. The previous government under Justin Trudeau introduced a well-intentioned tax and rebate scheme aimed at taxing the largest consumer polluters—those with multiple cars, properties, and frequent travel habits—while benefiting the environmentally conscious and less affluent citizens. Unfortunately, Trudeau failed to effectively communicate the policy’s benefits, allowing Poilievre to exploit this communication gap and rally against it.

The consumer carbon pricing scheme, a key tool for meeting Canada’s Paris Agreement commitments, now teeters on the brink of extinction. Mark Carney, in an unexpected move, completed Poilievre’s “Axe the Tax” campaign, dismantling a program that had potential for significant environmental impact.

If Poilievre assumes office, the illusion of his environmental concern will dissipate, aligning with climate-denying regimes. Conversely, if Carney takes the helm, there’s a glimmer of hope for reintroducing consumer carbon taxes, though he remains reticent about his plans, and his supporters remain uncurious.

We find ourselves in a precarious position, seemingly ignoring the gravity of climate change, influenced by misinformation and rhetoric from a conservative leader who dismisses the climate crisis. Drill baby drill, is the mantra of Conservatives, a familiar refrain to was is heard in the south – yes the fossil fuel sector is important especially in light of tariff turmoil, but it is imperative that we remain vigilant, demanding transparency and action to safeguard our planet’s future.

Master illusionists of Environmental Policies – April 15, 2025: https://youtu.be/4wuAP1x6RMY

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack