One big question for Canadian climate advocates is why we should act on climate change when other countries seem to ignore it. Many Canadians think we’re doing fine compared to others, but that’s a misconception.
Since 2005, Canada’s emissions have only dropped by about 10%. In contrast, European nations have reduced their emissions by a third, and the U.S. has cut emissions by around 20%. That puts Canada behind most high-income countries.
Even in developing nations, like China, efforts are being made to tackle climate change. China now invests 44% of global renewable energy resources and is a leader in clean technology. Electric vehicles are taking off there, with half of the vehicles sold being electric — far more than in Canada.
Many countries are pushing forward with renewable energy. Chile and Morocco are rapidly decarbonizing their power grids. Ethiopia has banned the import of combustion engine vehicles. Even Denmark is phasing out fossil fuels.
In stark contrast, Canada is increasing fossil fuel production. Reports show that countries like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Norway have boosted their fossil fuel outputs by 40% since the Paris Agreement.
Currently, Canada ranks 61st out of 67 on the Climate Change Performance Index, and our climate action plans are rated as “highly insufficient.” This means if every country followed our lead, we’d be headed toward a disastrous four degrees of global warming.
At international climate talks, Canada declines to commit to plans for reducing fossil fuel use. Instead, it continues to invest in projects like new liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities and pipelines.
The idea that Canada is a climate leader is misleading. As the world gradually shifts away from fossil fuels, Canada risks lagging behind and complicating its own economic future. A shift toward clean energy could present new economic opportunities and align with global trends.
Recent data from various reports reveal the urgency. The Lancet’s Countdown on health and climate change shows alarming figures: 546,000 heat-related deaths and $304 billion in weather-related damages last year alone.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) suggests oil and gas demand might peak soon, but outdated assumptions skew current readings. For Canada, continuing to invest in fossil fuels could mean missing out on the clean energy transition happening worldwide.
The economy, in the long run, could thrive on clean technology. Reports from Clean Energy Canada suggest taking actionable steps now to grow this sector. Countries like Costa Rica and Morocco offer examples of effective climate action.
Moreover, the Global South is finding ways to leapfrog traditional energy routes. Many African nations are focusing on renewables, presenting opportunities that Canada could learn from.
In summary, Canada can no longer afford to hold back on climate action. Rather than continuing past practices, we should embrace the clean economy for a sustainable future.
Source link
