NDP Critic Warns Against Abandoning Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Federal Reviews

The recent proposed changes to the Impact Assessment Act by the federal government have sparked controversy and concern among environmentalists and politicians alike. The decision to remove transboundary air pollution, including greenhouse gases, from evaluations of major projects has raised questions about the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and addressing climate change.

NDP environment and climate change critic Laurel Collins has been vocal in her criticism of the proposed amendments, calling them a dereliction of responsibility. She warns that by excluding greenhouse gas emissions from the act, the government is setting a dangerous precedent and undermining its ability to protect the environment.

Collins is not alone in her concerns. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May has also spoken out against the amendments, characterizing them as a “quick and dirty” repair of the Impact Assessment Act. She has pledged to vote against the changes, citing broken promises from the Liberal government.

Civil society groups have joined the chorus of opposition, urging federal ministers to retain transboundary air pollution and “nationally significant” greenhouse gas emissions in the act. They argue that Canadians have the right to be protected against environmental harms caused by provinces they do not reside in, and that the federal government should not cave to pressures from provinces and industry.

Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault has defended the proposed changes, stating that they are necessary to prevent legal challenges from provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. He argues that the amendments actually strengthen the act by limiting the ways it can be challenged in court.

Despite the government’s rationale, the debate over the Impact Assessment Act amendments is far from over. As the political fight continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the federal government will balance its constitutional responsibilities with its commitment to environmental protection and climate action. Stay tuned for updates on this important issue.