April 1st sees the implementation of the Federal Carbon Tax, and with that, both consumers and vendors are bracing for the possible implications. One of the most immediate impacts will most likely be seen at the pumps.

Drivers are used to seasonal fluctuations in gas pricing, but this one promises to see a more sustained increase in pricing compared to the usual long weekend bumps. Looking ahead at a post-carbon tax market, Brent Walker, General Manager of the Humboldt Co-op, confirms assumptions that buyers will bear the brunt, "Ultimately, it's just going to be more cost to the average consumer. Whether we see those increases back in some form of rebate will depend on what the Federal Government does."

When it comes to the scenario that drivers will reduce their fuel consumption to mitigate the cost increases, Walker, like most rural consumers, says there's only so much that one can do. "When you look at urban areas, there are things they can do to reduce the carbon footprint. They may use more energy efficient vehicles. Realistically, when you get into rural, it's pretty tough to change the vehicles that you need to operate to run your business."

Walker acknowledges that automotive manufacturers are doing more to create cleaner and more energy efficient vehicles that meet stricter standards. However, when it comes to heavier equipment, there are fewer options. Walker notes, "We still need large vehicles to haul things around and that's all part of the carbon tax."

With fewer options for mass transportation and ride sharing, areas outside of major urban centres may see limited changes in drivers behaviour. When it comes to consumer spending in other areas touched by the carbon tax, that remains to be seen.