VICTORIA — Merran Smith, executive director at Clean Energy Canada, made the following statement in response to the release of B.C.’s sectoral climate targets as required by the provincial Climate Change Accountability Act:
“For the first time ever, B.C. has established sectoral emissions targets. And while these new targets neither increase nor decrease the province’s larger 2030 climate target, they do provide a more detailed roadmap for where B.C. will decarbonize its economy over the next decade.
“While B.C. benefits from a clean electricity grid, real work remains to be done in sectors such as transportation, buildings—especially as it relates to heating—and heavy industries, all of which now have their own targets.
“The more important step for B.C. to take in 2021, however, is not just setting targets but rather implementing the measures required to exceed our economy-wide 2030 climate target. The federal government charted its course for doing so in December, and the B.C. government has said we will see an updated CleanBC plan later this year. As in all matters relating to climate change, time is of the essence.
“Building a sustainable economy is also another way of talking about building long-term competitiveness. Whether it’s clean technology designed in the city or clean aluminum forged in Kitimat, the world—including our largest trading partner down south—is keen on buying the goods and services that underpin a net-zero world.”
KEY FACTS
- The new sectoral targets neither increase nor decrease B.C.’s larger climate target. They are based on the emission reduction levels needed to meet the economy-wide 2030 target most cost-effectively.
- When it comes to government spending, most British Columbians (61%) would like to see the province focus more on developing renewables such as hydroelectricity, hydrogen and clean technology, while fewer than one-quarter (22%) prefer a focus on LNG.
- Almost three-quarters (73%) of British Columbians support policies that make pollution-intensive products and activities gradually more expensive, if at the same time these policies also make climate-friendly alternatives cheaper and more available.
- Most British Columbians (60%) are interested in buying an electric vehicle or already own one.
RESOURCES
Poll | Most British Columbians are interested in buying an electric vehicle
Poll | British Columbians prefer the province invest in clean energy over LNG
Release | B.C.’s new climate target will help keep province on track, but highlights work to be done
