The federal environment minister assured a parliamentary committee that the Liberal government is unwavering in its commitment to achieving the 2030 emissions reduction targets, despite recent agreements with Alberta regarding a new bitumen pipeline. Julie Dabrusin faced questioning from both Conservatives and the Bloc Québécois about the government’s environmental policies and efforts to combat climate change. Bloc MP Patrick Bonin specifically inquired in French about Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions target for 2030, to which Dabrusin affirmed the commitment, emphasizing the ambitious nature of the goal.
Since taking office in 2015, the Liberal government has endorsed the Paris Agreement targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act mandates annual climate progress updates, highlighting the ongoing efforts to meet these targets. Dabrusin acknowledged the need for continued work to achieve the objectives, as indicated in the 2024 report showing a 7.1 percent reduction in emissions since 2005.
Last week, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith signed a memorandum of understanding outlining conditions for federal support for a bitumen pipeline to the B.C. coast. When questioned about the pipeline’s impact on emissions and climate change, Dabrusin emphasized the alignment with the Pathways Plus carbon capture project in Alberta to potentially reduce emissions from the oilsands.
Regarding the electric vehicle (EV) mandate, Conservative MP Carol Anstey inquired about the government’s plans. The mandate, introduced by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, aims for specific percentages of zero-emission vehicle sales by 2023, 2030, and 2035. Concerns raised by automakers and recent developments prompted a review, with Carney announcing a pause on the EV sales targets for evaluation. Dabrusin refrained from expressing personal support or opposition to the mandate, citing an ongoing review process that will inform future policy decisions.