Message from the Premier and Minister Penner
Global warming is the challenge of our generation. How we respond will shape the future of not just our environment, but also our economy, our society, our communities, and our way of life. British Columbia is taking decisive action to ensure these changes are positive. Since 2007 we have built a solid framework that addresses climate action in four key ways:
- We have entrenched greenhouse gas reduction targets in law, including a commitment to reduce B.C.’s emissions by one-third by 2020.
- We are taking targeted action in all sectors of the B.C. economy to help reduce emissions and set the course for the new low-carbon economy of the future.
- We are taking steps to help British Columbians adapt to the realities of climate change and its impact on our province.
- We are beginning a process to educate and engage British Columbians. This includes holding public forums and developing our LiveSmart BC initiative to support individuals, families, communities, business and industry to make cleaner choices and help build a new low-carbon society.
And we are making good progress. In fact, independent economic modelling estimates that the climate action initiatives we have already announced will take us approximately 73 per cent of the way to our 33 per cent 2020 reduction target.
B.C.'s Climate Action Plan describes how the government will build on the framework established since 2007 and identifies choices we can all make to save money and reduce our carbon footprint. We will develop subsequent phases of the plan with the continued guidance of the very best scientific, economic and engineering minds in British Columbia and throughout the world.
The challenge we face is enormous but, with decisive action, it can be met. It must be met if we want to sustain the quality of life we enjoy today for our children and our grandchildren. So let’s work together, and let’s make them proud.
