The Net-Zero Advisory Body in Canada is facing challenges as the country is at risk of missing its greenhouse gas emissions targets by 2030. The advisory body, tasked with guiding Canada towards net-zero emissions by 2050, is currently operating with only five members out of a possible 15. The remaining members have reached out to Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin for support in revitalizing the group by appointing new members, addressing budget concerns, and committing to regular meetings.
Several members have expressed concerns about the government’s apparent disregard for the advisory body’s advice, citing difficulties in achieving climate targets and a perceived lack of engagement from the Carney government. Catherine Abreu, a former member, pointed to the recent agreement between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith regarding a pipeline construction project as a significant factor in her decision to resign.
The agreement led to the resignation of Steven Guilbeault, a Liberal cabinet minister, and raised concerns among environmentalists, including Abreu, who noted a shift towards focusing primarily on industrial carbon pricing for emissions reduction. Abreu emphasized the importance of a diverse policy ecosystem to effectively combat climate change, cautioning against overreliance on a single policy approach.
While some members express reservations about recent policy changes, such as the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax and the introduction of the One Canadian Economy Act, others, like Michael Bernstein, suggest giving the government flexibility during challenging economic times. Bernstein, who remains on the advisory board, believes that Ottawa is reevaluating its climate policies to prioritize industrial carbon pricing as a cost-effective strategy.
Bernstein and Rick Smith of the Canadian Climate Institute advocate for setting a substantial industrial carbon price to drive emission reductions and incentivize clean energy investments. They view recent government actions, such as reducing tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles and implementing methane regulations, as positive steps towards achieving climate goals.
Despite the resignations within the advisory body, there remains optimism that the government will address concerns raised by members. Minister Dabrusin is set to respond to the advisory body’s recommendations in 2026, following the submission of their annual report. The government’s commitment to tackling the climate crisis through strategic policy adjustments and consultations with experts is crucial for advancing towards net-zero emissions targets.