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Preamble:
WHEREAS the Government of Canada has enacted the Canadian Net Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through policies primarily focused on minimizing carbon emissions; and
WHEREAS the implementation of net-zero policies has introduced measures that disproportionately impact key industries in Alberta, including agriculture and oil and gas, thereby creating economic challenges for these sectors; and
WHEREAS carbon dioxide comprises only 0.04% of the atmosphere and is a critical element for sustaining life, serving as a fundamental resource for photosynthesis and ecological balance; and
WHEREAS elevated levels of carbon dioxide have been shown to enhance plant growth, improve agricultural yields, and contribute to reducing global food insecurity by fostering more robust crop production.
Operative Clause:
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) urge the governments of Alberta and Canada to enact policies that reflect the beneficial role of carbon dioxide in supporting ecosystems and agricultural productivity, in recognition that carbon dioxide is a vital component of the Earth’s natural systems, essential for sustaining life;
FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT the RMA advocate for the withdrawal of the Canadian Net Zero Emissions Accountability Act, promoting instead a balanced approach to environmental stewardship that acknowledges the complex interactions of carbon cycles and their contributions to societal well-being.
Member Background:
The Canadian Net Zero Emissions Accountability Act, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, has been analyzed by institutions such as the C.D. Howe Institute and Deloitte. Their findings suggest several potential economic impacts:
Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide offers several benefits, particularly in enhancing plant growth, agricultural productivity, and global food security. Lal (2004)[5] highlights that elevated CO₂ can bolster soil carbon sequestration, improving soil health and agricultural resilience while mitigating food insecurity. Donohue et al. (2013)[6] find that a “CO₂ fertilization effect” has caused a gradual greening around the globe. Collectively, these studies underscore the role of CO₂ in supporting ecosystems, improving agricultural yields, and addressing global environmental challenges.
ATTACHMENT: Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, S.C. 2021, c. 22
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-19.3/fulltext.html
[1] See https://www.cdhowe.org/expert-op-eds/reducing-emissions-will-cost-governments-need-admit-financial-post
[2] See https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/canada-oil-gas-emissions-cap-likely-curtail-production-report-says-2024-06-18/
[3] See https://www.cdhowe.org/public-policy-research/power-when-you-need-it-case-small-nuclear-reactors
[4] See https://www.cdhowe.org/intelligence-memos/ben-brunnen-energy-scenarios-shouldnt-drive-policy-especially-canada
[5] See https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1097396
[6] See https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/grl.50563
RMA Background:
2-22S: Negative Impact of Carbon Tax on Rural Albertans
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) conduct a rural impact analysis on the federal carbon pollution pricing system to determine how the system is negatively impacting rural Albertans and rural municipalities and share the analysis with the governments of Alberta and Canada; and
FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the RMA advocate to the Government of Canada for the amendment to the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act to halt carbon tax increases on fuel.
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ER3-24S: Opposition to Federal Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) register its opposition to the federal zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate in its current form;
FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the RMA advocate to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and to the Government of Canada (GOC) to reconsider and revise the ZEV mandate to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities and develop a more flexible, market-based approach that removes the 100 percent ZEV requirement.
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5-22F: Fertilizer Emission Reduction Target Impacts
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Rural Municipalities of Alberta request that the Government of Canada either cancel the 30% fertilizer emissions reduction target or ensure that said target remains voluntary.
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