Why Do Climate Targets Matter? A Look at Canada’s Commitments and Global Standing
Canada’s Climate Targets: A Key Piece of the Global Puzzle
As climate change accelerates, its effects are becoming more apparent, with rising temperatures, extreme storms, and disruptions in ecosystems and food security. As these challenges intensify, setting clear emissions reduction targets has never been more important. Without measurable goals, progress is uncertain, and the path to net-zero becomes harder to navigate.
Emissions targets provide the roadmap, helping ensure that countries are held accountable and that actions align with the urgency of the crisis. Around the world, nations are stepping up their commitments under the Paris Agreement, and Canada is no exception. But how do these targets work, and where does Canada stand in the global fight against climate change?
What Are NDCs?
The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, introduced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These are each country's plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. The collective goal? To keep global temperature, rise below 1.5°C and avoid the most severe climate consequences.
Under the agreement, countries must update their NDCs every five years, gradually increasing their ambition based on national capabilities and global progress. The first set of NDCs came in 2015, followed by updates in 2020. The next round, due in 2025, will set climate commitments through 2035 and will be shaped by the Global Stocktake, a worldwide assessment of progress under the Paris Agreement.
While current commitments mark progress, they still fall short of what’s needed to stay within the 1.5°C target. Strengthening NDCs is essential for building a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Canada’s Climate Targets: Where Are We Headed?
Canada is firmly committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, reducing emissions while fostering economic growth and innovation. Over the past decade, national climate policies have already begun to cut emissions, putting the country on track for a 34% reduction below 2005 levels by 2030—a significant improvement from past projections.
In 2024, Canada submitted its 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution, setting a target to cut emissions 45–50% below 2005 levels, building on the 2030 goal of 40–45% below 2005 levels. This commitment aligns with the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which legally requires the government to set five-year emissions reduction targets, ensuring steady progress toward net zero.targets, ensuring steady progress toward net zero.
Looking ahead, Canada is enhancing its climate policies, investing in clean energy, and collaborating with Indigenous communities, businesses, and international partners to meet these targets while positioning itself as a leader in the global clean economy.
How Does Canada’s Target Compare Globally?
Canada’s 2035 emissions target is part of the global drive for decarbonization, reinforcing its commitment alongside other major economies in the race to combat climate change.
- United States: Aims for a 50–52% reduction by 2030 (2005 baseline) and net-zero by 2050. Canada’s target is slightly less aggressive but follows a similar trajectory.
- European Union: Targets at least a 55% reduction by 2030 (1990 baseline) and net-zero by 2050, making it more ambitious relative to its reference year.
- United Kingdom: Aims for a 68% reduction by 2030 and 78% by 2035 (1990 baseline), among the most ambitious globally.
- China: Plans to peak emissions by 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060, a slower trajectory than Canada.
- Japan: Pledges a 46% reduction by 2030 (2013 baseline) and net-zero by 2050, closely mirroring Canada’s pathway.
While Canada’s targets are in line with global trends, achieving them will require continued policy implementation, increased clean energy investment, and cross-sector collaboration.
Canada’s Global Climate Leadership
Since ratifying the Paris Agreement, Canada has been a leader in international climate action, setting ambitious emissions reduction targets and championing global cooperation for a 1.5°C future. The country co-leads the Powering Past Coal Alliance, aims to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030 through the Global Methane Pledge, and is a founding member of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to tackle short-lived pollutants.
Canada also invests significantly in climate finance, dedicating $5.3 billion to support developing nations in their clean energy transitions. Through its strong commitment to the Paris Agreement, Canada is helping drive global goals, from tripling renewable capacity to reducing methane emissions by 35% by 2035.
The Road Ahead
Canada’s ambitious 2035 climate target is a crucial milestone in the country’s journey toward a sustainable, net-zero future. As Canada works toward this goal, the focus will be on creating strong foundations and policies that can support long-term success. While the 2035 target serves as the next critical step after 2030, the ultimate objective remains clear: achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. To get there, the measures implemented today must align with this long-term vision, ensuring a transition that is not only effective but also resilient. In the years to come, Canada will need to continue prioritizing innovation, clean energy, and collaboration to meet its climate targets, building a future that benefits both the planet and the economy.
What Can You Do?
Climate action isn’t just for governments, but it’s for everyone. Whether it’s supporting sustainable businesses, reducing personal carbon footprints, or advocating for stronger policies, every step matters in the fight against climate change. Together, we can help Canada, and the world move toward a cleaner, more resilient future.
Interested in learning more about Canada’s climate policies and targets? Stay informed and get involved in shaping a sustainable future. Reach out to us at climateintegration@blackstoneenergy.com for more information and ways you can contribute.
