By Canadian Press

New federal climate think tank looking for a pathway to zero emissions

Jan 21, 2020 | 2:10 AM

OTTAWA — A new climate change think tank funded by the federal government says Canadians should expect to face the harsh realities of a changing climate even under the most aggressive global efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

The $20-million Canadian Institute for Climate Choices officially launches today with an inaugural report warning Canada will not be able to avoid the global economic shifts that adapting to climate change will bring.

It also says change is coming whether the world shifts quickly to low-carbon, or even zero-emission, energy sources, or continues as it is.

The report says Canada can either jump on board in the early stages, or risk massive job losses and economic pain when other countries pour money and time into the technology and manufacturing systems of the future.

The institute will be at arm’s length from the government, but fulfils a 2018 federal budget commitment to hire outside experts to assess the government’s climate policies and provide advice on new options.

1000 Ways to Heal

1000 Ways to Heal: Moons

Dec 10, 2024

Question of the Week

Should Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson apologize or resign after it was found he breached a section of council's code of conduct for allowing false or misleading information to be communicated?

Dec 09, 2024

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: Donald has it wrong - again

Dec 08, 2024

CEO Kathy Bardswick says the institute’s board, advisers and researchers know how politically divisive the issue can be, but believes showing Canadians the path forward will go a long way to reducing anxiety about it.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 21, 2020.

The Canadian Press