Ontario has been named Canada’s greenest province in the latest Green Provincial Report Card published by the Corporate Knights. The annual report card rated provinces on their progress in seven categories, including air and climate, water, nature, transportation, waste, energy, and buildings and innovation.

The report card is recognition that the government has made Ontario an environmental leader. The Clean Water Act has made Ontario’s drinking water the safest in North America, the Green Energy Act is helping eliminate the use of dirty coal and creating 50,000 jobs; and we are now protecting over 1.8 million acres of green space for the next generation to enjoy.

Jim Bradley, Environment Minister, said that “it is an honour to be recognized for our success in building a greener province. Our continued commitment, coupled with the recent introduction of the proposed Great Lakes Protection Act is providing lasting benefits for families. We are creating jobs and protecting the environment. It’s a win-win for all Ontarians.”

Ontario earned the highest grades in the 2012 report card. Emissions in Ontario decreased by 34 megatonnes between 2005-2010. That’s the same as taking nearly 8 million cars off the road – a much more significant reduction than any other province.

And the Ontario government is not stopping there. This week they introduced the proposed Great Lakes Protection Act which we build on existing efforts to clean up the Great Lakes and make sure the next generation can enjoy these natural wonders.

“I think all Ontarians should be very proud of this achievement” said Energy Minister Chris Bentley. “It clearly shows that we have succeeded in our plan to transition to a clean, modern, reliable energy system. This is ensuring cleaner air and a healthier future for the next generation of Ontarians.”

The government is taking strong action to protect Ontario’s land, water, and air to enhance our quality of life and create a strong, green economy.