Meagan Markus, a resident of Whitehorse, emphasizes the importance of holding the industry accountable, conducting more research into cumulative effects, and increasing renewable energy initiatives to address climate change. Markus, noting the accelerated impact of climate change in the North and its adverse effects on wildlife and permafrost, expects the next government to prioritize these actions.
In anticipation of the Nov. 3 territorial election, all three political parties have outlined their plans to combat rising emissions. While the Liberals and NDP aim to continue existing climate strategies, the Yukon Party advocates for revamping current approaches, particularly criticizing the previous Liberal government’s climate plan.
Researchers have highlighted a significant warming trend in the territory since the 1950s, posing threats to species like chinook salmon. Christopher Addison, from the Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, stresses the urgency of expediting land use planning to regulate industry activities and protect carbon-sequestering areas like wetlands.
The Liberal party, the first to unveil their election platform, pledges to uphold the current climate strategy but expresses skepticism about meeting the emission reduction target by 2030. In contrast, the Yukon Party plans to introduce a new climate strategy, citing the need for more substantial actions than mere promises.
NDP Leader Kate White commits to achieving the 45% emissions reduction target despite the challenges posed by increasing carbon emissions due to population growth. White emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from experts to meet this goal.
All three party leaders support Yukon Energy’s proposal to construct additional thermal power plants to meet the territory’s rising electricity demands. White acknowledges the necessity of balancing energy needs with climate action, emphasizing the importance of pushing for electrification while reducing emissions.
The 45% emissions reduction target, initially an NDP campaign promise in the 2021 territorial election, remains a focal point for all parties. It was later integrated into the confidence and supply agreement between the NDP and the minority Liberals to maintain government stability.