More than 97% of scientists agree that the earth has been warming at an unprecedented and rapidly increasing rate. Scientific research proves this warming is due to increases in greenhouse gas emissions primarily caused by human activities. The main human activities contributing to climate change are burning fossil fuels from heating and cooling our buildings, as well as our carbon intensive transportation system that relies mostly on personal vehicles. While fossil fuels have been helpful in global development for hundreds of years, it is now evident that the resulting emissions are a major problem. 

THE PARIS CLIMATE AGREEMENT

Understanding this global challenge, 195 countries joined in the Paris Climate Agreement to drastically cut emissions creating the most inclusive global agreement to tackle climate change to date.  Canada set two commitments under the global agreement:

#1. 30% reduction in emissions below 2005 levels by 2030

#2. Net zero emissions by 2050

At POW Canada, we advocate for bold, comprehensive, non-partisan policies aligned with Canada’s Paris Climate Agreement targets. Meeting Paris Climate Agreement targets is key to protecting the winter sports we all enjoy -- whether it is skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing or skating. By taking a look at the research completed by POW’s Science Alliance [hyperlink], we can foresee two drastically different futures: the high and the low emissions scenarios. Our commitment to reducing our GHG emissions could be the difference between a 7-day and a 73-day skiing season in Ontario, for example. Continuing to enjoy our winter seasons as we do today means we must make bold decisions and advocate for even bolder ones with our elected officials.

WHAT DOES NET ZERO MEAN FOR CANADA?

Canada has committed to an infinitely bold and complex goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Delays in Canada’s plan to reach net-zero emissions mean more costly economic damages due to climate change and will likely require more aggressive action later. There are multiple pathways to reach this goal, yet not all are compatible with a more inclusive, resilient and thriving economy. POW supports bold social and technological policy transformations that will bring us closer to achieving a sustainable and decarbonized economy as quickly as possible, while ensuring we don’t leave behind the groups who risk facing disproportionate impacts of a transitioning economy.