Recent federal data and a study suggest Canada might not achieve its greenhouse gas emissions targets by 2030 as legally mandated.
Moreover, the Net-Zero Advisory Body, responsible for steering Canada towards net-zero emissions by 2050, is experiencing a significant reduction in membership, now standing at just five individuals out of a potential 15.
Those remaining on the advisory board have reached out to Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, as first reported by The Hill Times, seeking support to revitalize the group. Their appeals include the appointment of new members, addressing budget concerns, and scheduling regular bi-monthly meetings.
Concerns have been raised by departing members regarding the failure to seek advice from the advisory group amid the apparent challenges in meeting climate objectives.
Catherine Abreu, an original member who recently resigned, expressed discontent over a recent agreement signed by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. The agreement involves supporting the construction of a pipeline to transport oil from Alberta to British Columbia for export to Asia.
Reviewing Policy Actions
The pipeline agreement led to the resignation of Steven Guilbeault, a Liberal cabinet minister, and concerns among environmentalists regarding policy changes like the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax and the introduction of the One Canadian Economy Act.
Abreu highlighted the shift towards emphasizing industrial carbon pricing for emission reduction, expressing worries about relying solely on this approach.
She emphasized the necessity of a diverse climate policy ecosystem to ensure resilience and effectiveness in tackling climate challenges.
Varied Perspectives on Climate Strategy
Michael Bernstein, a board member who retained his position, diverged in opinion from Abreu, showing willingness to give the government flexibility in decision-making.
While acknowledging the government’s focus on economic issues and trade diversification, Bernstein underscored the importance of integrating climate action into the broader policy framework.
He highlighted the government’s reassessment of past policies and its emphasis on industrial carbon pricing as a strategic approach for achieving climate targets.
Bernstein advocated for setting a substantial industrial carbon price to incentivize emission reductions and foster investments in clean energy, proposing a price of $130 per tonne.
Rick Smith, head of the Canadian Climate Institute, echoed Bernstein’s stance on the significance of industrial carbon pricing in achieving emission reduction goals. He applauded recent climate initiatives, such as reducing tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles.
Smith emphasized the positive impact of such measures on increasing accessibility to affordable electric vehicles for Canadians.