THE CARBON MARKET: QUÉBEC IS A GOOD EXAMPLE, SAYS THE NEW YORK TIMES

Québec, January 19, 2016 – In its January 19^th editorial, The New York Times confirms Québec’s leadership and pioneering status in the fight against climate change, citing the greenhouse gas (GHG) cap-and-trade system for emission allowances it set up and linked to the California system, thereby creating the largest carbon market North America. The editorial is yet one more demonstration of the fact that the carbon market not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also helps spur economic growth.

In the view of The New York Times, the actions taken by Québec, which is now positioned among the most active subnational jurisdictions in North America in this domain and is an example worth following, deserve to be commended. The carbon market remains the spearhead of Québec government action in the fight against climate change, in addition to having a clear role in stimulating the growth of the green economy. “I am thrilled to read the enthusiastic New York Times views on Québec and our climate change efforts,” stated Minister Heurtel.

The Québec-California carbon market is eliciting growing interest worldwide. Ontario, Manitoba and several northeastern U.S. states have shown interest in following this example in setting up a regional cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gas emission allowances. Worth recalling: Québec, along with Ontario, recently received the Carbon Pricing Champion Award for its signal commitment to carbon pricing.

The New York Times notes that carbon pricing is a strong contributor to economic growth. Moreover, Québec has adopted GHG emission reduction targets of 20% below 1990 levels by 2020, and 37.5% by 2030, which are among the most ambitious in Canada.

“Acting on climate change, and in particular through the carbon market, is a true motor for development and an opportunity for innovation and for stimulating the economy in sustainable ways that must be seized. All the efforts made here and elsewhere on Earth are essential if we are to preserve our gains. We can fight climate change together to ensure a better quality of life and a healthy planet for our children. Let’s do it for them!” the Minister concluded.

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Mylène Gaudreau
Press Officer
Cabinet of the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and the Fight against Climate Change
Tel.: 418-521-3911

Media Relations
Ministère du Développement durable,
de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre
les changements climatiques
Tel.: 418-521-3991