CALGARY — Jan Gorski, senior methane analyst at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to Friday’s release of program details for the federal Emissions Reduction Fund:
“We are pleased to see the Emissions Reduction Fund designed in a way that will address the economic impacts of the ongoing health crisis by creating jobs and contributing meaningfully to Canada’s climate goals. We’re encouraged to see the fund creates strong incentives for companies to take action above and beyond the current methane regulations, as we have previously recommended.
“Methane emission reductions remain one of the most cost-effective ways to mitigate climate impacts and additional efforts, such as this fund, will enable Canada to maintain momentum in reducing emissions from this powerful greenhouse gas. This program sets the stage for Canadian leadership in methane abatement technology that will be more in demand as the rest of the world increasingly acts on methane. This will result in more high-tech jobs in Canada, and further methane reductions world-wide.
“Recent federal modelling shows Canada will miss the mark on its promised methane reduction targets of 40-45% below 2012 levels by 2025. This fund will contribute to closing that gap by creating incentives for companies to take action beyond the current regulations. We were happy to see Minister Wilkinson reiterate his commitment to meeting the 2025 target and strengthening the current federal rules. We are now looking for a plan from the federal government that will ensure that this promise is kept and establishes a more ambitious target for 2030 and beyond.”
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Contact
Michelle Bartleman (English / français)
Communications Lead - Alberta, Pembina Institute
587-588-5744
Background
Primer: Media briefing on Canadian methane regulations - Regulation and provincial equivalency
About the Pembina Institute
The Pembina Institute is a non-profit think-tank that advocates for strong, effective policies to support Canada’s clean energy transition. We have offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa and Toronto. Learn more: www.pembina.org
