TORONTO—Rick Smith, President of the Canadian Climate Institute, made the following statement about the federal government’s pause of its Electric Vehicle Availability Standard and changes to the Clean Fuel Regulations:
“Today’s announcement is a missed opportunity for the federal government to reiterate the clear benefits of good climate policy, like the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution and protect Canada’s economic competitiveness. While the news of a forthcoming carbon competitiveness strategy is encouraging, today’s announcement introduces new uncertainty for auto manufacturers and investors, and undermines smart, low-cost climate policy in a critical sector.”
“More than four months after its election, and in the wake of a destructive summer of climate change-driven drought, wildfires, and smoke smoke affecting millions of Canadians, the federal government has provided limited information about its intentions on climate policy. We look forward to the release of the carbon competitiveness strategy and to participating in this policy review, which must be evidence-based.
“The evidence shows very clearly that the federal EV standard will help Canadians find better, more affordable automobile options, while also creating flexibility for vehicle manufacturers. The EV standard can ensure Canada keeps pace with an automobile market that is rapidly shifting towards electrification and emissions reduction.
“With respect to the Clean Fuel Regulations, we welcome the inclusion of measures that will benefit Canadian biofuel producers, as well as canola farmers dealing with trade sanctions, but reiterate the critical importance of ensuring this standard continues to measurably reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the country.
“Together, these two policies are among the only tools the federal government has to reduce emissions from the transportation sector, which is the second highest-emitting sector in the country at 23 per cent of total national emissions. Without quick and sustained policy action to address national emissions, Canada is at risk of falling further off track of its climate and clean economy goals and losing further momentum on achieving its climate goals.
“As Canadians across the country continue to grapple with the devastating impacts of the second worst wildfire season on record, our governments need to step up to protect the safety of Canadians and build a more competitive economy that is purpose-built for the global energy transition that continues to charge ahead.”
RESOURCES
- Blog | Debunking three myths about the ZEV mandate
- Insight | Gas-powered vehicle sales have peaked in Canada
- Blog | ZEV mandates are good climate policy—because they work
MEDIA CONTACTS
Claudine Brulé (Eastern Time)
(226) 212-9883
cbrule@climateinstitute.ca
Krystal Northey (Mountain Time)
(226) 212-9883
knorthey@climateinstitute.ca
The Canadian Climate Institute is Canada’s leading climate change policy research organization. We produce rigorous analysis, economic modelling, and in-depth research, and have experts available to comment on topics including: carbon pricing, the costs of climate-related disasters in Canada, and Canada’s progress in reducing emissions, and policy priorities for the incoming federal government.
