14.4 Environmental Policies and International Commitments

Canada's environmental policies reflect its global commitments and domestic challenges. From the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement, the nation has grappled with balancing economic interests and emissions reduction targets. These efforts showcase Canada's evolving role in international climate action.

Domestically, Canada has implemented legislation like the Environmental Protection Act and carbon pricing. These measures aim to protect the environment, assess project impacts, and promote sustainable development. The nation's environmental policies also intersect with Arctic sovereignty concerns, highlighting the complex nature of environmental governance.

International Environmental Agreements

Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement

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• Kyoto Protocol (1997) set binding emission reduction targets for industrialized countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Canada withdrew from the Kyoto Protocol in 2011 due to concerns over economic impact and lack of participation from major emitters (China, India, USA)
• Paris Agreement (2015) aims to keep global temperature rise well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C
• Canada ratified the Paris Agreement in 2016 and committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030

Climate Change Initiatives and Emissions Reduction

• Canada participates in international climate change conferences and negotiations to address global warming and its impacts
• Initiatives focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting clean energy, and adapting to the impacts of climate change
• Canada has implemented various measures to reduce emissions, such as:
  • Phasing out coal-fired power plants
  • Investing in renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro)
  • Encouraging energy efficiency in buildings and transportation
• Despite efforts, Canada faces challenges in meeting its emissions reduction targets due to its resource-based economy and growing energy demands

Domestic Environmental Legislation

Environmental Protection and Assessment

• Canadian Environmental Protection Act (1999) is the primary federal legislation for preventing pollution and protecting the environment and human health
  • Regulates toxic substances, pollution prevention, and environmental emergencies
  • Sets national environmental quality objectives and standards
• Environmental assessment process evaluates the potential environmental impacts of proposed projects and ensures mitigation measures are in place
  • Applies to projects under federal jurisdiction (pipelines, mines, ports)
  • Involves public participation and consultation with Indigenous communities

Carbon Pricing and Green Plan

• Carbon pricing puts a price on carbon emissions to incentivize emissions reduction and shift towards cleaner energy sources
  • Can take the form of a carbon tax or cap-and-trade system
  • Federal government implemented a national carbon pricing system in 2018, with provinces having the option to develop their own equivalent systems
• Green Plan (1990) was a comprehensive environmental action plan that aimed to address various environmental issues, such as:
  • Reducing waste and promoting recycling
  • Protecting wildlife and habitats
  • Improving air and water quality
  • Encouraging sustainable resource management

Environmental Policy Goals

Sustainable Development and Arctic Sovereignty

• Sustainable development aims to balance economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
  • Involves the sustainable use of natural resources, conservation of biodiversity, and reduction of environmental impacts
  • Requires collaboration between government, industry, and communities to develop and implement sustainable practices
• Arctic sovereignty refers to Canada's efforts to assert its jurisdiction and protect its interests in the Arctic region
  • Climate change is leading to increased accessibility and economic opportunities in the Arctic (shipping routes, resource extraction)
  • Canada seeks to ensure its sovereignty over the Northwest Passage and its exclusive economic rights in the region
  • Environmental protection is a key aspect of Canada's Arctic strategy, as the region is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and human activities (oil spills, overfishing)