Statement - Minister McKenna congratulates British Columbia on its commitment to climate action

PARIS, France, Dec 2, 2015 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Government of Canada, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, welcomed the release of British Columbia's Climate Leadership Team report and commended the Province of British Columbia on its consistent leadership on climate change.

"British Columbia has long been an advocate for climate change action in Canada, and its exceptional work on greenhouse gas emissions reductions, clean technology and transit solutions has established it as an international sub-national climate-change leader.

"I have had the opportunity to meet with Premier Clark on the ground in Paris at the international climate change conference, COP21, and I have seen first-hand that British Columbia is determined to meet the challenge of climate change.

British Columbia's work thus far includes the launch of its carbon tax, an initiative that has resulted in less petroleum fuel use per person while also growing the province's economy. This, among other meaningful climate-change actions, has enabled British Columbia to make considerable progress in the fight against climate change within its jurisdiction.

"No country, province or territory can solve climate change in isolation. Working together, Canada and its provinces and territories have the opportunity—now—to make more progress, and to preserve our climate for our children and grandchildren.

"The Government of Canada will provide national leadership, and join with the provinces and territories to take action on climate change, put a price on carbon, and reduce emissions. Working together in Paris at COP21, Canada's strong and valuable partnership with the provinces and territories will enable us to advocate for the adoption of an effective climate change agreement that promotes increased ambition over time."

SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada

Contacts: Caitlin Workman, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 819-938-9436; Media Relations, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 819-934-8008