What is Canada’s climate track record as it seeks 'ever closer' ties with Europe?
Critics say there is a stark contrast between PM Mark Carney's international reputation as a climate champion and his domestic drive to expand oil and gas production.
Canada's climate track record stands in contrast to its aspirations to deepen ties with Europe. Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, the country has taken steps that raise questions about its commitment to tackling climate change while seeking to expand its role as an energy superpower. Carney's government has abandoned policies aimed at reducing emissions and made it easier for oil and gas projects to gain approval.
One notable proposal is the Pacific Link pipeline, which would transport one million barrels of oil sands bitumen daily from Alberta to the Pacific Ocean, potentially increasing greenhouse gas emissions by 18.7 million tonnes. This move comes at a time when the European Union is seeking ever-closer cooperation with Canada, particularly in areas such as defence, critical raw materials, energy, trade, and border security.
The EU has also acknowledged the need to prepare for increasingly extreme weather, signaling a focus on climate preparedness. However, Canada's actions in recent months suggest a shift away from its climate credentials, which Carney cultivated as governor of the Bank of England and as the UN's special envoy for climate action and finance.
The government's emphasis on expanding oil and gas production and approving major infrastructure projects, such as the proposed Pacific Link pipeline, highlights the tension between Canada's economic strategy and its climate commitments.
Written by urgent.news from Euronews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
