Canada presenting itself as climate leader at COP31, despite policy rollbacks

OTTAWA — Despite its rollbacks of climate policy, the Carney government will lead a delegation to the COP31 conference in Turkey next week presenting itself as an international climate leader.

Government officials held a technical briefing for journalists today ahead of the annual two-week United Nations climate conference.

Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin will attend the first week of COP31 and officials say she will co-chair a ministerial meeting on methane solutions.

Over the past year, the Carney government has delayed more stringent tailpipe emissions for passenger vehicles, has been accused of weakening industrial carbon pricing in a deal with Alberta, and has conceded the country’s emissions will rise over the coming years.