Quebec, March 18, 2026 — Équiterre views the Quebec government's recently tabled budget with skepticism. Behind an appearance of fiscal prudence lie choices with major consequences: the diversion of surpluses from the Electrification and Climate Change Fund and the establishment of a parallel legislative framework to fast-track the development of large-scale projects.
"We acknowledge that the government is operating in a context of great uncertainty, both geopolitically and in terms of domestic affairs. It is nevertheless making very deliberate choices by its intention to use Bill 5 to accelerate economic transformation. In doing so, it confirms a willingness to transform the economy at the expense of the environment by bypassing our laws. This is a short-sighted, ill-advised and irresponsible vision."
- Marc-André Viau, Director of Government Relations at Équiterre
Équiterre acknowledges a measure to encourage the participation of Indigenous communities in project development consultations. However, the measure is being introduced in a context where environmental protections are being weakened with Bill 5.
Équiterre notes that the budget allocates more funding to helping businesses adapt to the new economic context ($700 million) than to helping Quebec communities adapt to climate change ($583 million). Given that adaptation investments are exclusively dedicated to the Rénoclimat and LogisVert programs, we hope that the implementation of the govenment's Plan for a Green Economy will address pressing issues, such as flood and wildfire protection, as well as erosion control.
Shifting the burden
It's important to note that surpluses from the Electrification and Fight Against Climate Change Fund are being diverted to deficit control.
"The government is choosing to prioritize intergenerational financial equity at the expense of intergenerational environmental equity. Quebec does not come out ahead in this burden transfer."
In terms of sustainable mobility, it's concerning to see the decline in public transit investment. While an increase is expected after 2030 to maintain existing infrastructure, it is not enough to offset the lack of short-term investment.
Our analysis of government spending will remain incomplete until two elements are known: the implementation plan of the Plan for a Green Economy, and how the incoming Premier intends to use the discretionary fund set aside for him or her.
Going forward, Équiterre calls on the Quebec government to review its budgetary practices in order to present a complete and transparent picture of all environment-related expenditures as part of its budget process.
For more information :
media@equiterre.org (514) 605-2000
Équiterre's offices are located on Indigenous lands that have not been ceded by treaty, which we now call Montreal and Quebec City. We recognize that Indigenous peoples have protected their territories since immemorial times and have used their traditional knowledge to guard the lands and waters. We are grateful to live on these lands and are committed to continuing our efforts to protect them. Read more »
