Oil, water, weather crises will hit cities

Municipalities are facing a “perfect storm” once the era of cheap oil, cheap water and altered weather patterns hits with full force, says Ontario’s environmental commissioner.

In a chilling speech to municipal leaders yesterday, Gord Miller said municipalities are not ready for the massive effect on communities.

“We are entering a period of consequences,” said Miller. “Our present public policy is inadequate to deal with these immense problems that are upon us right now.”

Miller said that Ontarians’ consumption is growing by 3% a year. At that rate, the province would have to find four times the current electrical generation capacity to meet consumption needs in 23 years, he said.

Ottawa Sun