"Is Canada, in its pursuit of being a climate leader, inadvertently contributing to global emissions through its oil and gas exports? A recent independent analysis suggests that the emissions produced from the oil and gas Canada exports may outweigh the emissions from all sectors within the country combined.
The Dilemma of Oil and Gas Exports
Despite the push towards achieving global net zero emissions by 2050, Canada’s oil and gas industry continues to expand, with new extraction projects being approved and plans for a liquified natural gas export hub on the horizon. While the federal government aims to cap emissions from drilling and refinement domestically, the majority of the industry’s emissions actually stem from the products’ use overseas.
The Unseen Impact of Exported Emissions
When it comes to counting emissions, Canada’s method aligns with international standards, tallying emissions released within the country’s borders. However, exported emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels are counted by the importing countries, leading to a significant gap in the emissions accounted for.
An analysis revealed that estimated CO2 emissions from Canada’s oil and gas exports in 2022 surpassed its domestic emissions, emphasizing the impact of exported emissions on the global climate. This begs the question – should exporting nations, especially developed countries like Canada, take responsibility for the emissions produced by their products beyond their borders?
A Call for Global Responsibility
As the world strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and shift away from fossil fuels, the responsibility falls on all nations, including major oil and gas exporters, to spearhead the transition to a low-carbon economy. While Canada may be on track to meet its domestic emissions targets, its role in the global energy market and contribution to emissions through exports cannot be ignored.
In the grand scheme of things, the atmosphere does not differentiate between domestic and exported emissions – what truly matters is the overall impact on the environment. As the world grapples with the climate crisis, it is imperative for all nations to reevaluate their contributions and work towards a sustainable, decarbonized future."
