A People-First Climate Plan

Whereas the United Nations International Panel on Climate Change called for "rapid and far-reaching" transitions in land, energy, industry, buildings, transport, and cities" to keep global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels;

Whereas with the current 1.2 degrees warming, our planet is experiencing deadly heatwaves, melting glaciers, droughts, species extinction, dangerous weather, and severe impacts on life, health, wildlife and property;

Whereas Canada has failed to meet all nine of its previous emission reduction targets;

Whereas the current federal plan excludes Indigenous Peoples from decision-making on climate issues, expands the fossil fuel industry and offers little support for renewable energy;

Whereas the government passed legislation to increase climate accountability, its 2030 emission reduction target and plan are dangerously inadequate;

And whereas we want to leave a liveable planet for our children and future generations;

We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada to introduce a People-first Climate Plan that:

-puts Indigenous Sovereignty front and centre

-phases out fossil fuels according to clear targets

-abandons schemes for dirty hydrogen and carbon capture and storage

-gets tough on large greenhouse gas emitters

-invests heavily in clean, renewable energy

-invests heavily in building retrofits and public transit

-supports transition of workers and communities to sustainable jobs and secure
futures

-protects, restores and expands our natural environment

-commits to ending colonialism, racism, poverty and inequality

-builds a low-carbon, caring and sustainable economy.