Statement: Alberta climate plan an historic first step but more needs to be done

22 November 2015 (Edmonton) – Following today’s climate change plan announcement by the

Government of Alberta, Mike Hudema, a Greenpeace Canada Climate and Energy campaigner said:

“Today is an historic step for the province of Alberta. After too many years of previous provincial governments heading in the wrong direction and ignoring the problem, we applaud Premier Notley for listening to the growing calls of people across the province and the country demanding action on climate change.

“The measures announced today will start to slow Alberta’s growing emissions, diversify its economy, create jobs, and allow the province to start taking advantage of its tremendous renewable energy potential. These policies are important first steps, but much bigger emission reductions will be needed for Alberta to do its part to keep global warming below two degrees Celsius.

“This announcement is a major victory for people and communities that have long raised concerns about growing tar sands emissions. With the announced cap the government has finally set a limit on tar sands extraction. The days of the infinite growth of the tar sands are over and investors should take note. While the significance of this step cannot be overstated, these limits are still below what the science demands so the cap must be viewed as a ceiling rather than a floor. Alberta, like other jurisdictions, must continue to do more not less.

“We are concerned that the government has no short or long term emission reduction targets. Targets give an important signal to business, let the world know where Alberta is headed, and help ensure that direction leads to the reductions that science and equity demand.

“The government must also uphold and affirm its commitment to First Nation rights by allocating resources and forming direct partnerships to ensure that there is meaningful and adequate participation from First Nation and Metis communities.

“Greenpeace looks forward to working with the Alberta government to implement these policies, identify other solutions and continue our work to keep the climate issue high on the government’s priority list.

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For more information:

Peter Louwe, Communications Officer: 778-228-5404

Mike Hudema, Climate and Energy campaigner, 780-504-5601

NT4