The Government of Canada has announced a new climate target, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 45% to 50% by 2035, relative to 2005 levels.

While the government positioned the new target as “the next step” toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, it marks only a modest improvement over Canada’s existing 2030 goal. The target also falls short of the 50%–55% reduction range recommended by the government-appointed Net-Zero Advisory Body (NZAB) to align with the 2050 commitment. In its announcement, the government described the 2035 target as a “progression beyond the 2030 target” while acknowledging Canada’s “national circumstances.”

The introduction of the 2035 goal builds on the government’s 2020 commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, which became law in 2021 under the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act. The legislation requires Canada to establish five-year national emissions reduction targets, set 10 years in advance, to support the overarching 2050 goal.

As part of its obligations under the Paris Agreement, Canada must also submit five-year emissions reduction targets—Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)—to support global efforts to limit temperature rise to well below 2°C, and ideally to 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels. Canada’s most recent NDC, submitted in 2021, committed to reducing emissions by 40%–45% by 2030 based on 2005 levels.

The new 2035 target will shape Canada’s upcoming NDC, which is due next year, alongside an outline of the measures the country plans to implement to meet its interim goal.

In addition, the 2021 legislation established the Net-Zero Advisory Body, tasked with advising the government on pathways to achieve net zero by 2050 and on interim emissions reduction targets. Earlier this year, the NZAB recommended a 2035 target of a 50%–55% reduction in emissions to keep Canada on track for its 2050 commitments.

Stay ahead in the world of sustainability compliance with Global PCCS, where expert insights meet the latest regulations. Unlock a future where compliance drives sustainability and your business thrives in a greener, regulated landscape.