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Days away from the United Nations climate conference, we are at a critical juncture. Now is the time to bridge Canada's credibility gap and take action.
Ottawa (29 Oct. 2021) — Over 40 organizations from across the country, including the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE), are calling on the new federal Cabinet to prioritize strong climate action.
The groups' call appeared as an ad in The Hill Times paper on Wednesday, October 27. View the ad and signatories here.
It's time for action
This was the group's message to Ministers:
Days away from the United Nations climate conference, we are at a critical juncture.
This summer, Canadians have seen first-hand the devastating impacts of climate change faced by so many around the world. Two-thirds of Canadians want strong action on the climate crisis within your first 100 days in office — but for too long, Canada's climate leadership has been more a matter of words than action.
Now is the time to bridge our credibility gap and take action by
Upholding Indigenous Rights
Fully implement the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and respect Indigenous Peoples as rights holders in all climate plans and negotiations.
Committing to align our climate policies and targets to keep 1.5° C within reach and to protect a livable planet
Pledge to cut our domestic emissions to at least 60% below 2005 levels by 2030 and plan to rapidly decarbonize all sectors of the economy.
Ending the expansion of the oil and gas sector, Canada's highest source of emissions, and ensuring a just transition for workers and communities
Join the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance at COP26, present clear plans to cap at current levels and decrease emissions from oil and gas, eliminate all fossil fuel subsidies and supports, and develop a Just Transition plan.
Financing climate justice and the energy transition for the countries least responsible for creating the crisis but most vulnerable to its impacts
Mobilize at least C $5 billion/year in climate finance, including $1.8 billion/year in development assistance funding and ensure that 50% of this funding goes towards adaptation and work with other wealthy countries to close the $100 billion gap.
Words on the international stage must be matched by action at home
In the coming weeks, at the G20 summit, at COP26 and in the Speech from the Throne, we’re looking to you to demonstrate real leadership with concrete, urgent plans to transform our economy and society to make them safer, fairer, more caring, and more resilient for all.
View the ad and signatories here.