The federal government unveiled Canada’s next steps to combat climate change with the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan. This plan outlines steps to create a cleaner future for Canadians both environmentally, and economically. The goal is for Canada to reach an emissions reduction target of 40 to 45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, and net-zero levels by 2050.
This is not Canada’s first kick at the can for climate change efforts. In 2015, Canada and 195 other countries agreed to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions enough to lower global warming temperatures to below 2 C˚ under the Paris Agreement. Last year, Canada increased its ambition regarding this commitment. The 2030 plan, should it follow through on its intentions, could have a historic and incredibly positive impact on Canadians all across Canada.
Questions about the plan being too ambitious, or perhaps vague, have come into play. Some feel that it is unrealistic for Canadians and the government to complete the various steps included. Yvonne Fernandes, former Kitchener city councillor, and Brian Sulley, Air Quality professor at Conestoga, offer their insights into the plan and what politicians can do to help get things moving.
