IISD Recognizes Canada’s Carbon Pricing Proposal as an Important First Step
IISD responds to the Government of Canada's announcement today to introduce Canada-wide carbon pricing.
Today the Government of Canada announced its plans to implement Canada-wide pricing to curb carbon pollution.
The International Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) recognizes this as an important first step in the federal government’s plan of action to meet the emission targets set out in the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
Canada plans to charge a minimum of CAD 10 per tonne on carbon pollution from 2018, increasing by CAD 10 a year, and reaching CAD 50 in 2022.
“Today’s announcement is a clear signal that we are all in this together. It highlights the important role that pricing carbon pollution can play in reducing emissions while driving innovation,” said Amin Asadollahi, IISD’s North American Lead on Climate Mitigation.
“Carbon pricing is the most effective market mechanism of curbing carbon pollution. The Government of Canada is demonstrating strong leadership on climate change with this proposal. This price will be re-evaluated at a crucial moment in 2022. This review can inform Canada’s progress at the international level prior to the first global emissions stocktaking exercise scheduled for 2023. In addition to the carbon price, complementary measures will be necessary to ramp up efforts in order to put us on the right path to achieving the 2030 climate targets,” said Asadollahi.
“As the world’s temperatures soar, along with its levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, we are all feeling a sense of urgency when it comes to taking action. Carbon pricing, therefore, should also form part of a larger diversified initiative to cut carbon emissions. It will also be important to push forward an accelerated phase-out of coal-fired electricity generation, championing clean and renewable energy sources, addressing emissions in the transportation sector and encouraging business action on climate.”
About IISD
The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is an award-winning independent think tank working to accelerate solutions for a stable climate, sustainable resource management, and fair economies. Our work inspires better decisions and sparks meaningful action to help people and the planet thrive. We shine a light on what can be achieved when governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities come together. IISD’s staff of more than 250 experts come from across the globe and from many disciplines. With offices in Winnipeg, Geneva, Ottawa, and Toronto, our work affects lives in nearly 100 countries.
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