File photo.
A report assessing climate change action in Canada says common shortcomings in Ottawa and from individual provinces is hindering the nation’s effort to deal with climate change.
The “Perspectives on Climate Change Action in Canada” report is a joint audit from data collected by federal environment commissioner Julie Gelfand and nine provincial auditor generals, including Carol Bellringer of B.C., over the last 18 months.
Based on current policies and actions across the country, the report has determined Canada will not meet its 2020 target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17 per cent compared to 2005 levels.
The audit says more effort and action beyond what is currently in place will be needed to hit the 2030 target of cutting emissions by at least 30 per cent from levels in 2005.
The auditor generals found most governments lacked basic details when planning to adapt to the impacts of climate change, or there is no plan at all.
The report concluded most provinces have not assessed or do not fully understand what risks they face or what action to take to deal with a changing climate.
Andy Neal
