Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault informed MPs that the carbon tax had reduced emissions by almost 3 percent in a given year, although department officials stated it was closer to 1 percent.
Speaking at the House of Commons environment committee on May 21, Mr. Guilbeault revealed that the carbon price had led to emission reductions of 5 megatons in 2018, 14 megatons in 2019, 17 megatons in 2020, 18 megatons in 2021, 19 megatons in 2022, and 24 megatons in 2023.
Mr. Mazier inquired about the source of the figures and whether they were inclusive of other factors.
“The numbers I provided are specifically related to carbon pricing,” clarified Mr. Guilbeault, citing his department’s inventory report.
John Moffet, assistant deputy minister at Environment Canada, explained that the 3 percent reduction in emissions was the total reduction, with carbon pricing contributing a third of that total.
“One third of those reductions can be attributed to carbon pricing, meaning it has contributed to a third of the total reductions,” he stated.
Tory MP Michael Kram sought clarification on whether the carbon tax was estimated to contribute only 1 percent to total emissions reduction. Mr. Moffet responded affirmatively.
Mr. Guilbeault previously mentioned to the committee that carbon pricing “will help achieve one-third of Canada’s emission reduction by 2030.”
The Epoch Times reached out to Environment Canada for clarification but did not receive a response.
“If our total emissions have only been reduced by 1 percent due to the carbon tax, are there not other technological innovations that could achieve a similar reduction at a lower cost to consumers?” questioned Mr. Kram.
Lawrence Hanson, associate deputy minister at Environment Canada, explained that the carbon tax is not a form of spending that can be redirected elsewhere.
“The carbon price is charged and largely revenue-neutral, with the funding being returned in various ways to set a price signal,” he elaborated.
The Liberal government has faced pressure from Conservatives to eliminate the carbon tax or introduce temporary relief measures amid affordability concerns.
The Liberals argue that eight out of ten households benefit more from the carbon tax through rebates, while the Tories claim that overall eight out of ten households are worse off because of it.
The Liberal government aims to raise the fuel charge to $170 per tonne by 2030, which would add over 37 cents to a liter of gasoline.
Mr. Mazier asked Mr. Guilbeault if the government had discussed raising the fuel charge beyond $170.
“There has been no decision made at this point,” replied the minister. When pressed further, Mr. Guilbeault confirmed that there have been no discussions on the matter.
Can you please rewrite this sentence?
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