For the first time on the global scene, I am embarrassed to be a Canadian. I find myself wishing to be a citizen from South of the border. For years, I have backpacked parts of this world with American friends, all wishing to stitch a Canadian flag on the back of their packs – even asking if they could pretend to be a Canuck. This week, for the first time, I’m asking for the favour to be returned as I embark on Copenhagen.
As COP15 kicks off, the United States have taken bold and leading steps towards regulating greenhouse gases as a threat to human health. Under the administration of the EPA, carbon dioxide and the remaining basket of six gases are obligated to be regulated under the Clean Air Act, allowing President Obama to bypass the cumbersome United States political system. Well done, Americans.
Meanwhile, Canadians have maintained a steadfast position of doing only what is necessary to regulate their greenhouse gas emissions – no more, no less. Jim Prentice has maintained that he will stick to his convictions – not allowing Canadians to be bullied on the international stage. An interesting stance for a nation of peacekeepers.
Prentice has indicated that we will follow the lead of the Americans and has detailed an emissions reduction plan to match. Does this strategy suggest that Canadians should expect to see an equally as impressive policy announcement from our Government concerning the health of our nation? Don’t hold your breath – or do?
The saving grace for Canadians for the next two weeks are the actions taken at the provincial levels of Government. Many provinces, in light of federal inactivity, have legislated emissions reduction targets of their own. Scheduled to announce its recently adopted target of a 20% reduction by 2020 (from a 1990 baseline), Quebec is sure to be loud and proud during the conference. So when all else fails and Canada receives its Fossil of the Day award – can Canadians rest easy aligning themselves with their provincial counterparts? I would suggest yes – but then again, I am an Albertan. Where does this leave me? An environmental orphan in my own country.
Perhaps I will seek asylum in Scotland, where I now live and study. With among the strongest legislated greenhouse gas targets in the world, I would be honored to wear a kilt and drape myself in the blue and white success of a country that can align five political parties and two independents to reach a common greenhouse gas law. Canada, can we not compromise among our four?
All in all, the following two weeks are sure to be exciting, controversial and above all else, pivotal in mapping the way for a post-2012 global climate agenda. I hope when the final whistle is blown, Canada contributes to a victory in regulation time, rather than push for sudden death.
Jacob Stein
