Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will miss its near‑term greenhouse‑gas emissions targets.
In a 17‑minute video posted to his official channel, Carney cited an economic affordability crisis, inter‑provincial tensions, and heightened geopolitical instability as reasons for the shortfall.
He described the climate plan inherited from the previous administration as well‑intentioned but no longer suited to current realities, noting that the certainties of 2015 have vanished.
Canada’s benchmarks, rooted in the 2015 Paris Agreement, the 2021 Net‑Zero Emissions Accountability Act, and a 2030 emissions‑reduction plan, require a 45‑50 % cut in emissions and are embedded as statutory obligations.
Carney warned that global geopolitics is as unstable as it has been since the end of World II, and called for stability amid the chaos.
While affirming the long‑term value of an energy transition, he argued that short‑term solutions are needed and that restricting oil and gas production would jeopardize economic growth.
He recalled the legacy of the National Energy Program, noting how past federal policies fostered resentment in Alberta and contributed to longstanding political divisions.
Since taking office, Carney has rolled back several environmental measures introduced under the previous government, including the 2035 ban on internal combustion vehicles, the consumer carbon tax, clean electricity regulations, and the emissions cap on the oil‑and‑gas sector.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the overall climate goal remains unchanged, but the strategy must adapt to evolving circumstances.
