14.4 Environmental Policies and International Commitments
3 min read•august 6, 2024
Canada's environmental policies reflect its global commitments and domestic challenges. From the to the , 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 . These measures aim to protect the environment, assess project impacts, and promote . The nation's environmental policies also intersect with 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
(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
(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)