Julie Dabrusin, the federal environment minister, affirmed the government’s dedication to achieving its 2030 emissions-reduction goals despite recent negotiations with Alberta regarding a new bitumen pipeline. At a House of Commons environment committee meeting on Monday, Dabrusin faced inquiries from Conservative and Bloc Québécois members regarding the government’s environmental policies and climate change efforts.
Bloc MP Patrick Bonin questioned Dabrusin in French about Canada’s commitment to the 2030 greenhouse gas emissions target, to which she confirmed the government’s resolve. Emphasizing the ambitious nature of the target, Dabrusin reiterated the government’s determination to strive towards meeting it.
Since 2015, the Liberal government has been aligned with the Paris Agreement targets, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030. The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act mandates annual climate progress updates, with a recent report indicating a 7.1% reduction in emissions since 2005.
Regarding the recent memorandum of understanding signed with Alberta for a bitumen pipeline to the B.C. coast, Dabrusin highlighted the importance of Pathways Plus, a carbon capture project, in potentially reducing emissions from the oilsands. When pressed about the pipeline’s impact on emissions and her support for it, Dabrusin emphasized the need for consensus among Alberta, B.C., and affected First Nations.
On the topic of the electric vehicle (EV) mandate, Dabrusin addressed concerns raised by Conservative MP Carol Anstey, stating that the government is reviewing the mandate’s implementation and will provide further details once the review is completed. The EV mandate aims to increase zero-emission vehicle sales in Canada to 20% by next year, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035 to assist in emission reduction efforts.