“Source not avaibable in English. Translation.] “After a summer of extreme weather, the environment could be a major issue in the upcoming election campaign. In less than two years, the Liberal Party has managed to make some “good moves” on the environment, but not to overcome policy inconsistencies, say observers.”

“Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, formally submitted Canada’s enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the United Nations, committing Canada to cut its greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 40‑45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. Canada’s NDC submission outlines a series of investments, regulations and measures that the country is taking in pursuit of its ambitious target. It includes input from provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners. These actions are also detailed in a new publication, entitled Canada’s Climate Actions for a Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. This is Canada’s first emissions reduction target that is enshrined in law under the new Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which received Royal Assent in June 2021.”

“The Minister must set the national greenhouse gas emissions target for 2030 within six months of the day on which this Act comes into force.”

“In addition, the federal government has committed to develop a plan to set Canada on a path to achieve a prosperous net-zero emissions future by 2050, including setting legally-binding, 5-year emissions-reduction milestones based on the advice of experts and consultations with Canadians, and working to position Canada as a global leader in clean technology. Other key priorities, including support for clean electricity generation, greener buildings and communities, the electrification of transportation and nature-based climate solutions (including a commitment to plant 2 billion trees over the next 10 years) had not yet been formally announced at the time the projections were being completed. As new measures are announced in more detail and implemented, they will be included in the modelling and will have an impact on future projected emissions levels, including for 2030.”

“Earlier this month, the Government of Canada announced commitments to further strengthen existing and introduce new greenhouse gas reducing measures in order to exceed Canada’s current 2030 emissions reduction goal. In addition, Canada will develop a plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and will set legally-binding, five-year emissions reduction milestones, based on the advice of experts and consultations with Canadians.”