Climate Planning & Action

Responding to climate change in a timely way is critical. British Columbia has already achieved significant milestones and remains committed to transitioning to a clean economy while simultaneously preparing for climate impacts.

Supporting a sustainable economy means recognizing our responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

To encourage cleaner choices, starting April 2018, B.C.’s carbon tax increases by $5/tonne per year until it reaches $50 in 2021. New revenues will be used to protect affordability, help keep industries competitive as they cut emissions, and encourage new green initiatives.

B.C. has established an advisory council to identify opportunities to benefit from a modern and clean growth economy. The Climate Solutions and Clean Growth Advisory Council is an independent group of experts, including First Nations, community, industry, labour, academia, and environmental representatives

The province continues its commitment to being a carbon neutral government. We are working together with other jurisdictions to take real climate leadership. This includes action across sectors, industry innovation and regulation, and preparing for climate impacts.

Tracking B.C.’s Progress Toward the 2050 Target

B.C. is committed to reaching our 2050 target of reducing GHG emissions to 80 percent below 2007 levels. Doing so means continuing to review and update our plan to keep it relevant. It also means tracking our performance to date. We do this through Progress to Targets reports, required every two years under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets Act.

In 2012, B.C. reached its first interim target, reducing emissions to six percent below 2007 levels. Details on the most recent Progress to Targets are available in the Climate Leadership Plan.