We need quick action to reduce emissions

To the Editor,

Climate scientists say the world needs to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 to avoid catastrophic global warming. In Canada, considering our historic emissions and wealth, experts say we should be aiming for 60 per cent. That would be daunting enough if we got serious about it today but, under Trudeau's watch, Canada’s emissions are still on the rise. What’s more, the Liberals have failed to deliver on key climate promises like a Just Transition Act to help oil and gas workers through the economic transformation ahead.

To fix this, we need a massive political shift.

That’s why I was thrilled to see a grassroots campaign calling on the Green Party and the NDP to form a Climate Emergency Alliance. Thousands of people have signed the petition in support of this historic partnership. With a snap election on the horizon, and the climate clock ticking, it’s time for Canada’s most progressive parties to set aside their differences. If the NDP and the Greens stop competing, and run on a joint climate plan that puts the Liberals’ half measures to shame, they can elect a wave of climate champions to Parliament.

It’s not going to be easy, but this is exactly the kind of boldness this moment demands. If readers want to get involved, they can learn more at climatealliance.ca.

Shannon Purves-Smith ELMIRA