Canada has revealed its latest revision to its zero-emission goals. Instead of the previous target of year 2040, the North American country is now banning sales of fossil fuel powered vehicles by 2035.
The new directive affects light-duty vehicles including pickup trucks.This latest target puts Canada on par with the UK, which is banning ICE vehicles in stages, starting with new ICEs in 2030 before extending to even hybrids by 2035.
Canada is looking to eliminate a major source of pollution, as the transport sector accounts for about 25 percent of all carbon emissions in the country. At the same time, it is hoping that the move will create more jobs. More directives may come as the country directs its attention to other sectors of the economy. Its goal is to reduce pollution across board.
The government will use a combination of financial measures and regulations to help its citizens and industries comply with the zero-emission policy. The financial aid will include incentives like assistance with the upfront costs of acquiring zero-emission vehicles and investments in charging infrastructure. Auto manufacturers will also benefit from funds to help them retool for making electric vehicles. The fund, which could be up to $8 billion, will be accessible through the Net Zero Accelerator program.
Canada is all in with its neighbour’s efforts to combat greenhouse pollution. It announced it will align with any environmental regulations made by the United State and will support any northern American coalition of auto makers that is transitioning towards electric vehicles. Present at the announcement were the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault.
Praising the move, Minister Omar Alghabra said: “Only bold climate policies lead to bold results. Through measures aimed at accelerating the transition to 100 percent zero-emission vehicles sales, we will continue building a cleaner and more resilient economy, while also creating good jobs and opportunities for all Canadians.”
On why the transport sector is being targeted, Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said: “Cutting our transportation emissions is one of the most readily achievable and economically beneficial paths Canada can take on the road to net-zero emissions by 2050. That’s why we are committed to aligning Canada’s zero-emission vehicles sales targets with those of the most ambitious North American jurisdictions.”