OTTAWA—Merran Smith, executive director at Clean Energy Canada, made the following statement in response to the federal government’s announcement that it will establish a minimum price on carbon across Canada in 2018:
“A price on carbon pollution across Canada is a huge step forward and an essential component of a credible climate plan. It’s the kind of leadership Canadians want and expect from the federal government.
“Seven of the world’s 10 biggest economies are already pricing carbon, according to the World Bank. Whether through a tax or a cap, carbon pricing is the cost of doing business in today’s world. Pricing carbon pollution is the new normal.
“Today’s announcement gives investors everywhere in Canada a clear signal: the cost of carbon pollution is going up and there is a market for climate solutions. That predictability will accelerate Canada’s clean energy transition, drive innovation and help us succeed in a global clean energy market that’s seeing record growth.
“A new Nanos Research poll, released today, shows a solid majority of Canadians—62 per cent—support a minimum price on carbon across Canada.
“On its own, the carbon price schedule outlined today won’t get the job done—but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Federal and provincial governments will need to pair carbon pricing with smart regulations and a transition to clean power across the economy to get Canada on track to hit our national target.”
BACKGROUND
- 77% support or somewhat support a national plan that ensures Canada achieves its international climate change targets to reduce carbon emissions.
- 66% support or somewhat support the federal government taking action on its own to meet national climate change targets, if the provinces and territories aren’t doing enough.
- 77% of respondents agree or somewhat agree that their province has an important responsibility to reduce carbon emissions by 2030.
- A majority of Canadians (59%) support or somewhat support a price on carbon emissions, and 62% support or somewhat support a minimum carbon price that applies across Canada.
Source: Nanos Research, Oct. 3, 2016.
RESOURCES
News Release | “Poll: Most Canadians Want Federal Leadership on Climate Change” (Clean Energy Canada, Oct. 3, 2016)
Polling Summary Report | Canadians’ Opinions on Climate Policy and Federal Leadership (Clean Energy Canada and Nanos Research | Oct. 3, 2016)
Government Submission | “Carbon Pricing in Canada” (Clean Energy Canada, June 21, 2016)
