New book reflects on how to connect Canada's disparate climate policy network to meet greenhouse gas emissions targets

A new open-access book, titled Reflections on Connecting Canada's Climate Policy Network, delves into the intricate landscape of climate policy initiatives carried out by various stakeholders, including government, industry, and civil society. The book can be seen as a response to the Supreme Court of Canada’s warning in 2021 that the nation was failing to meet its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets due to inadequate coordination of climate policies.

Canadian governance is rooted in federalism, a power-sharing model designed to safeguard political diversity and freedom. Upholding these principles requires public – and private – entities to engage in effective negotiation and decisive action, particularly during times of crisis like the current era of climate change. Consequently, urgent need exists for greater cooperation at all levels.

“Climate change will define our generation. We must unite or fail. History awaits as judge,” asserts co-editor, Dr. Fenner Stewart, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Calgary. “It’s that simple.”

This newly released book explores avenues for improving climate policy coordination, bridging divides, and identifying where the responsibility for change lies. “The seeds for this book were planted at a policy conference bringing together diverse stakeholders interested in how public policy shapes Canada’s climate path”, states Dr. Janis Sarra, Professor of Law at Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, “there are now many organizations and individuals working towards effective climate policy, as illustrated by the examples in this book; and by government, business, and civil society working together, we can enhance public policy to drive meaningful transition to net-zero emissions.” John Borrows, Professor and Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law at the University of Toronto Law School, expresses, “It was an honour to be involved in this project. It was a great learning experience to hear and read my colleagues’ views. This book’s essays contain important insights about how we can do better in addressing climate change.”

The book is divided into four sections and features contributions from policymakers, Indigenous Elders, scholars, industry experts, and emerging leaders. The authors of this collaborative volume include Dame Céline Bak, Dr. John Borrows, Nicholas Ettinger, JD'22, Laura Glover, JD'22, Amelia Harman, JD'22, Dr. Margot Hurlbert, Emily Jones, Dr. Andrew Leach, Temitope Onifade, LLM'17, Rachel Samson, Dr. Janis Sarra, Dr. Fenner Stewart, Arlene Strom, and Charlotte Woo, JD'22. Together, they emphasize the importance of creativity and a sense of urgency in fostering collaborative efforts to support Canada’s commitment to building a net-zero economy.

Download the book here: https://ccli.ubc.ca/resource/reflections-on-connecting-canadas-climate-policy-network/ 

Media contact: ccli-info@allard.ubc.ca

About the Canada Climate Law Initiative

The Canada Climate Law Initiative (CCLI) provides businesses and regulators with climate governance guidance so they can make informed decisions toward a net-zero economy. Powered by the nation’s top expertise, we engage with boards of directors and trustees to ensure businesses understand their legal duties with respect to climate change. Our legal research allows us to stay one step ahead in a rapidly transforming policy landscape.

CCLI is supported financially by family foundations, and is established at the University of British Columbia Peter A. Allard School of Law and Osgoode Hall Law School, York University.