Canada’s emissions reduction plan is not enough to meet its goal of cutting emissions by 40% to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030, according to a new report from the country’s auditor general. The audit found that critical measures needed to meet the 2030 target were delayed or not prioritized.
Canada has missed every emissions reduction target it has ever set. Now, the country is at risk of missing its commitment to the United Nations’ Paris Agreement on climate change.
“The government has not taken the actions necessary to achieve Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target,” the auditor general’s report said.
The audit found that responsibility for reducing emissions was fragmented among multiple federal entities, making it difficult to track progress and make course corrections. The report also found that the government’s plan lacked transparency and accountability.
The commissioner of the environment and sustainable development, Jerry DeMarco, who drafted the report, said the government could still meet its 2030 target with “drive, focus and leadership.”
“The government needs to act now to ensure that Canada meets its emissions reduction targets,” DeMarco said in a statement.
The auditor general’s report is a significant setback for the Canadian government, repeatedly saying that fighting climate change is a top priority.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada is committed to meeting its Paris Agreement targets. However, the auditor general’s report suggests that the government is not on track to do so.
The government has until the end of the year to respond to the auditor general’s report. It is unclear what steps the government will take to address the concerns raised in the report.
The auditor general’s report is a wake-up call for the Canadian government. The government must take urgent action to reduce emissions, or it will miss its Paris agreement targets.
