EMISSIONS CUT SLATED BY CANADIAN PRODUCERS' GROUP

Jan. 30, 1995
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) has signed a voluntary agreement with Ottawa to cut emissions of so-called greenhouse gas. CAPP, representing 190 producers, signed a letter of agreement to reduce emissions of gases such as carbon dioxide by about 4 million metric tons/year. Canada's energy industry produces an estimated 49 million metric tons/year of emissions. Ottawa has a target of stabilizing emissions by 2000 at the estimated 1990 level of 45 million metric

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) has signed a voluntary agreement with Ottawa to cut emissions of so-called greenhouse gas.

CAPP, representing 190 producers, signed a letter of agreement to reduce emissions of gases such as carbon dioxide by about 4 million metric tons/year. Canada's energy industry produces an estimated 49 million metric tons/year of emissions.

Ottawa has a target of stabilizing emissions by 2000 at the estimated 1990 level of 45 million metric tons/year.

CAPP Pres. Gerald Protti called the 4 million metric ton reduction an aggressive target.

The agreement is based on two broad principles:

  • CAPP and Ottawa support commitments consistent with meeting the economic and energy needs of Canada and the need to address environmental concerns.

  • Both parties will recognize the importance of mutual interest in developing flexible, cost effective ways to limit net greenhouse gas emissions, taking into account a need for enhanced scientific understanding on the issue.

The industry estimates it has found ways to eliminate about 600,000 metric tons/year of emissions.

Environmental groups say Ottawa must still pass laws to require cuts in emissions despite the industry agreement on a voluntary effort.

ALBERTA PROGRAM

Meanwhile, the World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWFC) said the Alberta government has agreed to join a program to ban development in environmentally sensitive areas.

WWFC Pres. Monte Hummel said Alberta will support his organization's "endangered spaces" campaign. It is designed to block mining, drilling, logging, and hydropower development by 2000 on a portion of various ecosystems.

The Alberta government plans to call for nominations for protected areas by Mar. 31. CAPP Vice Pres. Doug Bruchet said good land use policy is not set valley by valley or hearing by hearing. Companies do not want to pay for land use rights only to lose them at a later hearing.

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