Canada commits to strengthening carbon pollution targets, supporting workers and advocating for Indigenous Rights to be incorporated into the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

MADRID – David Suzuki Foundation’s delegation at COP25 welcomes Minister of Environment and Climate Change Jonathan Wilkinson’s first act at the UN climate summit in Madrid to commit Canada to a bolder approach to tackling the climate crisis.

Following the Minister’s statement, the Foundation’s delegation remains hopeful that the Canadian federal government recognizes the climate crisis as the emergency it is, and is responding to Canadians’ demand for bolder climate action, with urgency and more accountability from all sectors. The Foundation is also encouraged by the clear intention of Minister Wilkinson to include Indigenous Rights and an Indigenous perspective in the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

“There is momentum in Canada for bold climate action — on the streets, in the courts, in city halls and at this global summit,” David Suzuki Foundation science and policy director Ian Bruce said. “This commitment by Canada’s new federal government is good news.”

The federal government must demonstrate further action and accountability by enacting these solutions over the coming months:

  • Table Canada’s updated climate plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050
  • Legislate carbon emission reduction targets every five years, including stronger 2030 climate targets
  • Hold the line on cutting methane pollution from oil and gas
  • Ensure fairness across Canada on pricing carbon emissions from heavy emitters
  • Develop a robust standard for cleaner fuels
  • Invest in zero-emission electric vehicles and require automakers to increase supply
  • Continue investments in public transit and accelerate deployment of electric buses
  • Transition to a clean power future by accelerating energy efficiency and renewable energy
  • Uphold Indigenous rights and title in Canada

“Responding to this climate emergency is an issue of intergenerational justice. Governments and provinces that don’t act decisively at COP25 deprive younger generations of their right to a safe future,” Bruce said.

– 30 –

For more information or to arrange an interview (remote or in Madrid), please contact:

Diego Creimer, dcreimer@davidsuzuki.org, +1-514-999-6743