Green Party of Canada Condemns Weakened Emissions Target
OTTAWA – The Green Party of Canada is deeply disappointed by the federal government’s newly announced greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for 2035. This weakened target, a hypothetical deeper cut but a real delay of five years compared to previous commitments, signals a troubling lack of commitment to hold to the legally binding Paris Agreement.
The government’s decision to commit to a legally binding 45-50% reduction in emissions below 2005 levels by 2035, instead of the original target of achieving between 40 and 45 % by 2030, potentially violates Article 4 of the Paris Agreement. This rule against backsliding is a key aspect of the Paris Agreement, requiring all targets to reflect increased ambition.
“This is a betrayal of Canada’s responsibility to do our fair share, ” said Leader Elizabeth May. “The Paris Agreement requires that every new target must build on the last. Instead, this government is moving backward, signalling to the world that Canada is not serious about its climate commitments. This delay will have profound consequences for our planet and future generations.”
Canada remains one of the world’s largest emitters, lagging behind other wealthy nations in achieving meaningful reductions. The United Kingdom, for instance, has halved its emissions since 1990 and recently committed to an ambitious 81% reduction by 2035. In stark contrast, Canada’s new target represents a failure to match the urgency and scale of the climate crisis.
“While other nations are stepping up, Canada is stepping back,” said MP Mike Morrice. “This isn’t just a broken promise—it’s a missed opportunity to lead on the global stage. Canadians deserve a government that prioritizes their health, their future, and the jobs that come with a clean energy economy.”
The Green Party calls on the federal government to reverse this decision immediately and commit to a new nationally determined contribution eliminating the wiggle and wobble room -and commit to a clear target of what is needed – 60% reductions by 2035. Bold action, not delays, is needed to transition to renewable energy, protect biodiversity, and ensure a just future for all.
“Canada’s youth, workers, and communities deserve better,” added Elizabeth May. “We must uphold the spirit and the letter of the Paris Agreement. There’s no room for excuses when our children’s survival is at stake.”
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For more information or to arrange an interview :
Fabrice Lachance Nové
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514-463-0021