Canada is spending billions and pushing policy to slash emissions — but is it enough?

While the plan might get us there, critics suggest it lets some sectors off the hook — like oil and gas, which has a lower emissions reduction target.

Canada is willing to spend more than $9 billion, build tens of thousands of electric vehicle chargers across the country, and power every sector with greener technology to reduce emissions by 40 per cent by 2030.

But while the plan might get us there, critics suggest it lets some sectors off the hook — like oil and gas.

The government tabled its emissions reductions plan in the House of Commons Tuesday morning, laying out its pathway towards meeting its emissions reduction target of 40 to 45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, and towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

“Two truths can coexist at the same time,” said Caroline Brouillette, national policy manager at Climate Action Network Canada.

“This can be — at the same time — the most transparent and detailed climate plan that Canada has ever seen, and still be insufficient in the face of Canada’s responsibility and capacity to contribute to the global effort to limit warming to 1.5 degrees.”

Here’s what the plan is promising.

It has nine main priorities, focused primarily on investing in cleaner technologies for both individuals and industries, as well as pushing for new research, innovation and ideas to lower Canada’s carbon footprint.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault says these pillars, when taken together, will empower Canada to reach its climate goals.