Most Canadian governments have endorsed a national climate and clean growth plan, and a new public opinion poll suggests most Canadians have a positive rather than negative reaction. The survey was commissioned by Clean Energy Canada, a climate and energy think tank.
A positive or neutral view
The survey found that 69 per cent of Canadian adults had heard something about the meeting between the leaders of Canada’s federal and provincial on climate. The results suggest 44 per cent either had a positive or very positive view of the outcome, and 36 per cent had a neutral view.
Rather than leaving the issue for his environment minister to handle, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau himself took the lead. Of those respondents who were aware of that, 48 per cent had a positive or very positive view of the way he handled his responsibilities. Some 29 per cent were neutral.
‘Good work guys’
“That was a high profile meeting. It was one that actually saw a bit of political tension between the various levels of government. It wasn’t sure how it was all going to end,” says Clare Demerse, a policy advisor for Clean Energy Canada.
“We did see a plan at the end of the day and despite that tension, we saw Canadians, I think, saying ‘good, good work guys’ more or less.”
ListenOne premier expressed concern about the potential for economic risk, especially given that the U.S., Canada’s biggest trading partner, looks likely to pull back on climate mitigation under president-elect Donald Trump. But only 29 per cent of those surveyed shared economic concern. 42 per cent believe the climate plan will make Canada’s economy stronger.
‘Really good to see’
The poll found 70 per cent of respondents think Canada should shift to cleaner, lower-carbon energy as quickly as possible. Only 30 per cent feel it’s better to stick with fossil fuels.
Demerse is pleased with what the survey says about Canadians’ reaction to the national climate plan. “In general terms, they’re on board with climate action, they’re on board with clean energy, and the premiers and the prime minister working on this. We also found they’re on board with investing to actually help realize some of those promises.
“That was really good to see.”
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