The public policy should look into future needs and challenges. They constantly make quick decisions in response to changing polls or short-term economic trends to be ineffective. Because the government will always try to achieve the moving target.
Equally, moving toward re-election or scoring political points should not be the main goal of any government. The Government of Ontario needs to address issues such as climate change adaptation and mitigation in order to get society on the right track.
In sports, the season seems long and full of both victory and defeat. Achieving success requires the whole group to focus on the final goal.
Public policy acts the same way. There must be clear, defined goals communicated through government agencies and / or ministries and their purchases. A government sends mixed messages about its priorities that create confusion and lead to inaction.
A key criticism of Ontario’s plan is that it is based on desired thinking. According to a report by the general auditor, the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks estimates future innovation. The change will cut emissions by 2.2 by 2030.
But there is no evidence yet for emissions reduction programs to support this estimate. Ontario needs to identify a clear outcome, develop a clear plan and stand behind it with clear support.
The tools that governments use to implement policies often fall into four categories: regulations, fiscal incentives, behavioral change initiatives and taxes.
After the government has determined the desired public policy outcome. For example, reducing emissions, they can use some or all of these tools to achieve goals.
No sports team can succeed with a battle player and the coach cannot unite the team. Similarly, achieving successful policy outcomes that repeat the success of Norway’s zero emissions target requires strong leadership. This is a consistent message and buy from all stakeholders.