Québec Delays 2030 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Target by Five Years

Québec has officially postponed its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target originally set for 2030. The new deadline is now 2035, marking a five-year delay, as announced by the Minister of the Environment, Bernard Drainville. This decision has drawn immediate criticism from the province’s Climate Change Advisory Committee (CCCC), who express concern over the diminished ambition.

New Emissions Target Timeline

Initially, Quebec aimed for a 37.5% reduction in emissions from 1990 levels by 2030. The government now states it remains committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Minister Drainville described this adjustment as “green pragmatism,” asserting that the decarbonization pace would be slower due to various economic uncertainties.

Reasons for the Delay

• Concerns over job preservation in light of ongoing economic challenges.
• The need to negotiate trade agreements, particularly with the United States and Mexico.

The president of the CCCC, Alain Webster, criticized the delay, stating it reduces Quebec’s climate ambition for the first time in decades. He added that this move distances the province from its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Responses from Environmental Groups

Consultations held in the National Assembly indicated a strong desire among environmental groups and major emitters, including Énergir and cement producers, to maintain the original 2030 target. Many advocated for an enhancement rather than a delay in the emissions reduction goal. However, Minister Drainville decided not to follow the consensus, emphasizing the need for a broader perspective on the situation.

Current Emissions Data

In 2023, Quebec’s greenhouse gas emissions stood at 78 million tons, which is 20% below 1990 levels. This represents a 1.4% reduction compared to 2022. Minister Drainville claims that Quebec has made “halfway progress” since 1990, requiring additional time to achieve the 37.5% reduction target.

Concerns About Future Ambitions

Webster and members of the CCCC highlight that most reductions began post-2005. They warn that the current plan could lead to increasingly steep and costly cuts in emissions needed to meet future targets. Webster fears that this decision might demotivate municipalities, businesses, and citizens from pursuing their climate ambitions.

Global Context and Implications

While North American climate policies face setbacks, Europe and the UK continue to strengthen theirs. The CCCC warns that if Quebec remains committed to fossil fuel energy sources, it risks economic decline. Webster concluded that such a path would jeopardize both environmental progress and the province’s role in future energy innovations.