Stand Against Fossil Fuel Loopholes: Contact Your MLA & MP Today

The Government of New Brunswick's "Cost of Carbon Adjustor Mechanism" allows oil refineries to pass on the costs of cleaning up their fuel to consumers

Clean Fuel Regulations should be paid for by industry, not consumers

While other countries implement windfall taxes to ensure fair contributions from polluting companies, New Brunswick is creating loopholes that benefit these companies at the expense of its citizens.

On December 16, 2022, The Provincial Government of New Brunswick amended the Petroleum Pricing Act to include a “Cost of Carbon Adjustor Mechanism.” This amendment effectively shields oil refineries from the intent and consequences of the Clean Fuel Regulations—which have the sole purpose of motivating petroleum producers to reduce emissions associated with fuel production—and deflects this financial burden onto hardworking New Brunswickers who already pay for pollution through federal carbon taxes.

As citizens and consumers, it’s crucial to raise our voices and hold our elected officials accountable. Write to your MLA and MP to demand fossil fuel companies pay their fair share. Let them know that New Brunswickers should not bear the burden of inaction by petroleum producers. Together, we can ensure a fair and sustainable future for all.

Take action now! Your letter will be sent to:

Susan Holt, Premier of New Brunswick
Gilles LePage N.B. Minister of Environment and Climate Change
John Herron, N.B. Minister of Natural Resources
New Brunswick MPs (René Arsenault, Jenica Atwin, Richard Bragdon, Serge Cormier, Dominic LeBlanc, Wayne Long, Rob Moore, Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Jake Stewart, John Williamson)
Your MLA (based on your postal code)

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I am writing to you as a concerned citizen of New Brunswick regarding the Clean Fuel Regulations (CFR). Here in New Brunswick, our provincial government added an amendment to the Petroleum Pricing Act to include a “Cost of Carbon Adjustor Mechanism,” which allows for the CFR compliance costs from the fossil fuel industry to be passed through. This change limits our progress towards a greener future and adds costs to hard-working New Brunswickers who are already struggling with the rising costs of living. I am glad that the government is promoting sustainable energy solutions and trying to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, I am upset about the recent situation here in the Atlantic where costs of environmental compliance for the fossil fuel industry are being passed onto consumers. The fossil fuel industry has long been a significant contributor to global emissions and environmental degradation. Additionally, between 2019 and 2022, oil refinery profit margins in New Brunswick have increased by 282%. Passing these costs onto consumers is unfair and a burden that will have a greater impact on low-income households, while industry reaps all the benefits yet again. The CFR gives a unique competitive opportunity for the existing fossil fuel industry. Here in N.B., Irving Oil has a monopoly on the fossil fuel industry. New energy industries that are able to satisfy the CFR criteria can then enter the market and help drive costs down. This “carbon adjustor” removes industrial competition and prevents new energy industries, such as biofuels or blended fuels with lower GHG emissions, from entering the market. I urge the government to explore alternative solutions that promote a fair transition to renewable energy sources while safeguarding the well-being of consumers. Here are a few considerations for your deliberation: 1. Industry Accountability: The fossil fuel industry should be held financially responsible for its environmental impacts. By implementing stringent regulations and imposing fines for non-compliance, the fossil fuel industry will be motivated to adopt cleaner technologies and invest in sustainable practices without shifting the burden to consumers. 2. Subsidies for Renewable Energy: Redirecting government subsidies and incentives from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources can accelerate the transition towards a sustainable and clean energy future. By prioritizing investments in renewable technologies, we can stimulate innovation and create new job opportunities in the burgeoning green economy. 3. Support for Affected Communities: As we shift away from fossil fuels, it is essential to provide support and resources for communities that rely heavily on the industry. Funds should be allocated to retrain and re-employ workers in sustainable sectors, ensuring a just transition and preventing economic hardship. 4. Consumer Protection: Establishing strong consumer protection measures is crucial to shield citizens from unfair price increases resulting from compliance costs. Regulatory bodies should closely monitor energy markets to prevent price gouging and ensure that the burden is not unfairly shifted to consumers. By implementing these measures, we can ensure that the fossil fuel industry bears its fair share of the costs associated with environmental compliance while safeguarding the interests of consumers. I kindly request that you prioritize this issue and advocate for policies that protect consumers and promote a fair transition to a greener economy. Your leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our society and the world at large. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to hearing about the actions you will take to address this issue. Sincerely,