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Canada has about 0.5% of the world’s population but contributes about 2% of the total global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This data puts Canadians among the highest per capita emitters globally. Previously, Canada indicated its intent to reduce GHGs emissions by 3O% below 2OO5 levels by 2O3O, confirmed in its First Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement.
What mitigation strategies are actually in application today using Canada as a case study:
Canada has implemented several climate change mitigation measures/strategies/frameworks to address the challenges posed by climate change. Here are some examples:
- Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change: In 2016, Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial governments developed a national framework to combat climate change. The plan sets targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030 and establishes policies to meet these targets, such as carbon pricing, energy efficiency measures, and investments in clean technologies.
- Carbon Pricing: In 2019, the federal government introduced a carbon pricing system, which requires provinces and territories to establish a minimum price on carbon emissions. The system is intended to incentivize individuals and businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and encourage investment in clean technologies.
- Net-Zero Emissions by 2050: In December 2020, the Canadian government announced a plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This involves developing a comprehensive strategy to reduce GHG emissions across all sectors of the economy and investing in clean technologies, renewable energy, and energy efficiency measures.
- Clean Fuel Standard: In 2022, the federal government plans to introduce a Clean Fuel Standard that will reduce the carbon intensity of fuels used in transportation, industry, and buildings. The policy aims to promote the use of low-carbon fuels, such as renewable natural gas and biodiesel, and reduce the carbon footprint of Canada’s energy sector.
- Investing in Clean Technologies: The Canadian government has established several programs to invest in clean technologies and encourage innovation. For example, the Clean Energy Fund provides funding for renewable energy projects, while the Strategic Innovation Fund supports research and development in clean technologies.
- Renewable Energy: Canada has set targets to increase the proportion of renewable energy in its energy mix, with a goal of generating 90% of electricity from non-emitting sources by 2030. The country has invested in renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, to help achieve this target.
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