Friends of the Earth Canada has released the results of an opinion poll highlighting Ontarians’ support for green energy in the province. The poll also indicates strong opposition to the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) lack of support for Ontario’s initiative to buy local programs that create green jobs.

Roughly 73 per cent of poll respondents opposed the WTO’s policies that allow it to override Ontario’s plans to promote green energy.

“Almost three quarters of Ontarians believe the WTO should not be able to override Ontario’s plans to create green jobs for people in Ontario,”  says Beatrice Olivastri, CEO of Friends of the Earth Canada. “Canadians should be allowed to support our own green energy manufacturers and not be forced to rely on solar panels imported from other countries.”

The survey, conducted by Oraclepoll Research, found that 83 per cent of Ontarians believe it is important to produce more green and renewable energy in order to combat climate change and greenhouse gases.

“This opinion poll shows there is overwhelming support for green energy in Ontario,” says Olivastri. “This strong support should translate into action – governments should encourage the transition to solar and wind power to help reduce record levels of greenhouse gases.”