Published On: January 24, 2025

Tiohtià:ke [Montréal], 24 January 2025 :

Environmental, health, and development organizations are calling on the Quebec government to listen to its Advisory Committee on Climate Change and continue to base its decision-making and public policy on science—rather than backpedalling on climate ambition.

The statement of the Environment Minister, Benoit Charette, that environmental constraints could be relaxed “so as not to penalize the Quebec economy” sends a worrying message at a time when the climate crisis is already hitting our communities and our economy with increasing frequency.

A step backwards on climate policy would be completely contrary both to science and to what Quebecers want. A Léger poll conducted for Équiterre last December showed that 83% of Quebecers want more ambitious action to combat climate change.

With the current political uncertainty in Ottawa, provincial leadership is needed more than ever. The crucial role of subnational states is already evident on the other side of the border; a bipartisan alliance of American states reaffirmed on Monday that climate action will continue regardless of the new administration’s decisions. Other countries around the world have reiterated their commitment to the Paris Agreement. Quebec also needs leaders who continue to forge ahead and who dare to act with ambition and vision.

The Québec government has always been proud of its climate ambition, of its initiatives such as its cap-and-trade system, and of its clean energy. In the midst of political uncertainty, Quebec has the opportunity to play a key role in the ongoing global transformation by:

  • maintaining and strengthening its climate targets in line with the evidence and international commitments of the Paris Agreement;
  • increasing adaptation efforts; and
  • strengthening partnerships with states, cities and organizations to create a common front on climate ambition in the face of climate and geopolitical crises.

Quotes:

Leïla Cantave, Québec Lead, Climate Action Network Canada:

“Backing down on climate commitments means further delaying our economy’s adaptation to the challenges of the 21ᵉ century. Quebec has what it takes – the capabilities, talent and innovation – to position itself as a world leader in the energy transition. All that’s missing is the political will and courage from our decision-makers.”

Also supported by:

Andréanne Brazeau, analyste principale des politiques, Québec, Fondation David Suzuki

Patricia Clermont, organisatrice et porte-parole, Association québécoise des médecins pour l’environnement (AQME)

Anne-Céline Guyon, analyste climat-Énergie, Nature Québec

Rébecca Pétrin, directrice générale, Eau Secours

David Roy, directeur général, Ateliers pour la biodiversité

Michèle Asselin, directrice générale, Association québécoise des organismes de coopération internationale (AQOCI)

Geneviève Paul, directrice générale, Centre québécois du droit de l’environnement (CQDE)

France Pomminville, Directrice générale, Réalité Climatique Canada

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Canada’s farthest-reaching network of organizations working on climate and energy issues, Climate Action Network – Réseau action climat (CAN-Rac) Canada is a coalition of more than 180 organizations operating from coast to coast to coast. Our membership brings environmental groups together with trade unions, First Nations, social justice, development, health and youth organizations, faith groups and local, grassroots initiatives.

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Vicky Coo, Communications Manager
comms@climateactionnetwork.ca