VANCOUVER — The David Suzuki Foundation is encouraged by several elements of the B.C. NDP’s Climate Action Plan, released today. The strategy addresses several major concerns that will put B.C. on track to achieving emissions reductions. These elements include:

  • A commitment to reduce emissions and achieve emissions-reductions targets for 2030 and 2050.
  • Investing in climate change solutions, including public transit, energy efficiency, clean technology and initiatives that will reduce B.C.’s dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Working with the Climate Leadership Team to implement the complete list of recommendations.

“It’s promising to see the B.C. NDP’s commitment to public transit infrastructure and clean tech,” said foundation science and policy director Ian Bruce. “Investing in a clean energy future represents a significant economic opportunity. In particular, we’re happy to see the transportation funding framework that the David Suzuki Foundation advocated for in our 2016 report Breaking gridlock incorporated into the B.C. NDP platform.”

The NDP’s plan also commits to meeting the federally mandated $50 per tonne price on carbon pollution by 2022. Although this target is in line with national carbon pricing, the foundation wants to see the next government of B.C. commit to a plan beyond 2022.

More detail is needed about the financial elements of the plan. These questions should be answered as the election unfolds.

“Climate leadership is not a sprint,” Bruce said. “B.C. needs to commit to going the distance, improving on current targets and clearing the air on key issues like liquefied natural gas. How does LNG fit in with any plan to reduce emissions? We’re not sure yet. How will the next government ensure that methane emissions from this sector are accurately measured and reduced? All parties still need to answer these questions. We look forward to hearing what the other parties have planned on climate action. Now, more than ever, B.C. has the opportunity to lead on environmental solutions and invest in a sustainable economy.”

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Media contact:
Emily Fister, Climate Change & Clean Energy Communications Specialist
David Suzuki Foundation
604-374-4102