The province scaled back 2035 goal more than necessary despite rising gas prices and growing electric vehicle demand, says the David Suzuki Foundation

VANCOUVER — UNCEDED xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (MUSQUEAM), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (SQUAMISH) AND səlilwətaɬ (TSLEIL-WAUTUTH) TERRITORIES

Amendments to British Columbia’s Zero-Emission Vehicles Act announced today weaken the province’s target more than necessary, but resisting pressure from automakers to gut the act entirely is a relief, the David Suzuki Foundation says.

In response to the announcement, Thomas Green, Senior Manager of Climate Solutions, David Suzuki Foundation, said:

“We are pleased the B.C. government remains committed to the Zero Emission Vehicles Act and to ensuring electric vehicles are available at dealerships, and fast-charging networks are more accessible. We also welcome the decision to exclude conventional hybrids from qualifying for zero emissions vehicle credits. Without a plug, hybrids always pollute.

“However, weakening the 2035 target from 100 to 75 per cent goes beyond what current circumstances require. B.C. leads the country in electric vehicle adoption, and with rising gasoline prices and purchase rebates reinstated, it’s time to maintain ambition, not scale it back.

“British Columbians will bear the cost of climate inaction and will be less prepared for future geopolitical shocks. When families feeling the squeeze at the pump go to replace their vehicles, provincial rules should ensure dealerships are stocked with electric vehicles, which can provide protection against future price spikes.”

“Every new fossil fuel vehicle sold locks in years of tailpipe pollution linked to respiratory disease, cardiovascular illness and cancer, along with significant health-care costs. B.C. has built a hard-won advantage in the electric vehicle transition, and as government moves to finalize the requirements for 2028 to 2030, the Foundation will be advocating strongly for clean air and affordable electric vehicles.”

 

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For more information or interviews, please contact:

David Suzuki Foundation: Rosie Rattray, Communications Specialist: rrattray@davidsuzuki.org, 416-570-3728