Climate accountability legislation a historic moment for Can

OTTAWA— ISABELLE TURCOTTE, federal policy director at Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the passage of Bill C-12, The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, by Parliament:

“The passage of Bill C-12, a piece of legislation that is central to achieving a climate-safe future, is a historic moment for Canada. Along with requiring the federal government to set targets for greenhouse gas reductions every five years until 2050, Bill C-12, The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, also requires the government to deliver plans and progress reports on how those targets will be met. Those plans and progress reports will then be evaluated by an independent advisory committee.

“While this act may not be the gold standard, it is the right response to 30 years of missed climate targets. It establishes a legally binding structure to help ensure Canada does not miss future targets and that we remain accountable for our contribution to global warming.

“In the wake of the recent announcement to reduce emissions by up to 45 per cent by 2030, this bill also includes hard-won requirements that the government set a 2026 interim target and produce its first progress report two years from now. These amendments will contribute to making sure the next 10 years deliver deep reductions across the economy to keep Canada’s 2050 goal within reach. To stay on track, however, it is critical that provincial and territorial governments align climate planning with national goals.

“We applaud Parliament for moving forward with groundbreaking federal legislation for climate action, and welcome the opportunity to work together on transition planning that uses an equity lens so that job security and economic prosperity are ensured for all Canadians. Integral to a just transition is full and genuine collaboration with Indigenous peoples to co-determine what a low-carbon economy looks like.”

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