MONTREAL, Que. – March 20, 2013 – Canada’s Environment Minister, the Honourable Peter Kent, spoke at the European Union–Canada Going Green Conference in Montreal today on Canada’s approach to creating a greener economy.
“The Harper Government is committed to protecting the environment for present and future generations,” said Minister Kent. “By any measure, Canada’s regulatory agenda is an ambitious one, focused on the establishment and consistent enforcement of transparent world-class environmental standards.”
Minister Kent emphasized Canada’s commitment to operate as a world-class regulator in areas such as chemical management, air and water quality and biodiversity; as well as Canada’s ambitious sector-by-sector approach to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
GHG reductions measures taken to date include banning the construction of future coal-fired plants that use traditional technology, implementing GHG standards for passenger cars and light trucks, and most recently releasing standards for heavy trucks that will see GHG reductions of up to 23 percent by the 2018 model year, as well as significantly lower fuel usage and costs for vehicle owners and operators.
Canada’s approach to a green economy also includes investments in clean technology projects and research, as well as collaborations with private and international partners on the development of innovative technologies that benefit the environment. Recently, Canada strengthened its commitment to “green” Canada’s economy by investing $61.8 million to assist 23 new clean technology projects, ranging from an innovative, environmentally-friendly way to control bacteria in crops to making heating and air conditioning systems more energy efficient. Overall, since 2006, Canada has invested more than $10 billion to reduce GHG emissions, to improve energy efficiency and to develop green infrastructure.
The Government of Canada supports ongoing innovations that sustain Canada’s environment while stimulating our economy. Driving environmental technologies at home and abroad is allowing Canada to promote a sustainable environment while achieving economic benefits for all Canadians.
