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October 19, 2020

Canadian Greenhouse Gas Regulations – Navigating the Landscape

Author:

360 Energy

It is broadly accepted that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions need to be curbed to avoid significant global climate risks.

Legislation and regulations in place across Canada to limit GHG emissions are varied and complex. They seek to achieve multiple goals: reduce GHG emissions; mitigate economic impact; and allow time for emitters to adapt. Navigating the diversity of requirements can be a challenge, especially for companies with multiple sites across different provincial and territorial jurisdictions. Complexity increases if those sites vary significantly in size or in the nature of their production. Inevitably, there is some overlap and interaction amongst the legal requirements that contribute to confusion and inefficiency.

The Canada West Foundation has assessed this regulatory landscape by compiling A Compendium of GHG Reduction Legislation and Regulations Across Canada. The document contains, in one handy location, a current summary of GHG-related legal requirements by sector and jurisdiction.

The compendium is up to date, having been published in August 2020. It is a good starting point for anyone wishing to understand what regulations apply to them, or wishing to assess whether project proposals will address compliance issues. The Compendium does NOT cover policies and programs in place to support GHG emission reductions, nor requirements or regulations at the municipal level.

Companies with a strategic view of long-term competitive value, know that compliance with today’s regulations is the minimum required to address GHG emissions. Reducing or eliminating emissions is critical to manage financial risk, and to retain strong relationships with customers and other stakeholders. The Canada West Foundation Compendium contains helpful information for required reporting and timelines for reductions.

360 Energy’s team can support your GHG emissions management needs. Whether you’re working to meet regulatory compliance or seeking to be a leader in emissions reductions, our knowledgeable staff will help you craft and execute a strategy that works best for your operations, risk tolerance, and industry exposure.