Why Canada should rethink their Net-Zero act
Considering the recent wildfires in Canada, the harmful effects of climate change are undeniably evolving faster than previously expected. It is now imperative for leaders in government, business and communities to set bigger goals and work together for a better future.
In a Policy Options article posted on August 9th, by Malcolm Fairbrother, professor of sociology, along with Gareth Gransaull and Katya Rhodes, Canada’s 2021 Net-Zero act and its shortcomings is discussed. Canada has repeatedly failed to meet emissions targets. Moreover, new research suggests a considerable loss in assets if Canada does not implement a rapid transition away from fossil fuels.
The authors suggest the ways in which the United Kingdom’s Climate Change Act (CCA) may guide the ways in which Canada could achieve climate targets. Although their 2021 Net-Zero Emission Accountability Act is modelled after the CCA, it is currently lacking in the following aspects:
- It does not entail sufficient interim targets.
- The targets are set relative to a 2005 baseline, whereas the CCA is more stringent.
- The first milestone year is delayed until 2030, several years after a possible change in government.
- It does not give enough independence and resources to their Net-zero Advisory Body
The article also highlights the way the UK has successfully fostered interdepartmental co-ordination mechanisms, driving the issue to become a whole-of-government strategy. This is another perspective Canada is urged to adopt. The approach has ensured that actions to address climate change are no longer isolated. Rather, they are viewed as a driving force for economic transformation.
