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Ottawa and Alberta Forge Landmark Energy Accord

Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, meets with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith in Calgary on Thursday.   In a move that could redefine Canada’s energy landscape, Ottawa and Alberta have signed a new energy deal aimed at strengthening cooperation between the federal government and the province. The agreement signals a major shift in their often-contentious relationship, focusing on shared priorities such as clean energy investment, emissions reduction, and economic growth. The deal outlines commitments to expand renewable energy projects, modernize infrastructure, and support workers transitioning from traditional oil and gas sectors. Both sides emphasized that the accord is designed to balance Alberta’s economic reliance on energy production with Ottawa’s national climate goals. Observers note that this agreement could mark the beginning of a more collaborative era, reducing political friction and positioning Canada as a stronger player in the global energy transition.

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Global Energy-Related CO2 Emissions Reach Unprecedented Levels in 2023

 

In a concerning development, global energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) surged to a record high last year. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that these emissions rose by 410 million tonnes, representing a 1.1% increase, bringing the total to 37.4 billion tonnes.

Several factors contributed to this alarming trend:

  1. Fossil Fuel Use in Drought-Affected Regions: Countries grappling with droughts faced challenges in hydropower production. As a result, they turned to fossil fuels, exacerbating emissions.
  2. China’s Economic Reopening: China’s economy rebounded, leading to increased energy demand and subsequent emissions.
  3. Renewables and Electric Vehicles: While clean technologies like wind, solar, and electric vehicles helped curb emissions growth, other factors offset these gains.

Scientists emphasize that steep cuts in CO2 emissions are essential to meet global climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Without rapid reductions, we risk runaway climate change. The challenge lies in swiftly transitioning away from fossil fuels and embracing sustainable alternatives.

Regional Trends

  • United States: Energy-related emissions fell by 4.1%, primarily driven by reductions in the electricity sector.
  • European Union: Emissions dropped by nearly nine per cent due to increased renewable power generation and decreased coal and gas power.
  • China: Despite contributing significantly to solar, wind, and electric vehicle additions, China’s emissions rose by 5.2% as it recovered from COVID-19-related lockdowns.

Globally, electric vehicles accounted for one in five new car sales in 2023, reaching 14 million—a remarkable 35% increase compared to 2022.

The urgency to address this crisis cannot be overstated. Our collective efforts must focus on sustainable energy sources and innovative solutions to combat climate change. 

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