The Kyoto Protocol requires Canada to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to six per cent below 1990 levels. This shift will require investments in energy efficiency, but the payoff will include lower energy costs for consumers, new jobs from innovation and enhanced economic growth.

These benefits are illustrated in a new study, The Bottom Line on Kyoto, prepared by the U.S.-based Tellus Institute for the David Suzuki Foundation and World Wildlife Fund.

As a wealthy country with well developed infrastructure and advanced technological capabilities, we can provide global leadership on this issue.

We can also stimulate our own economy by ensuring that key sectors, such as renewable energy, are given the opportunities to develop.

The sources below outline positive and cost-effective solutions, provide analysis of Kyoto policies and examine the claims of Kyoto opponents.

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Studies on the benefits and costs of reducing greenhouse gas emissions include:

Kyoto and Beyond: The Low Emission Path to Innovation and Efficiency. This study from the David Suzuki Foundation shows Canadians will pocket $200 billion in energy savings by 2030 if Ottawa meets and exceeds the Kyoto Protocol's targets.

The Bottom Line on Kyoto: The Economic Benefits of Canadian Action. This study from the Tellus Institute shows how reducing greenhouse gas emissions will generate jobs and economic growth in Canada.

How Ratifying the Kyoto Protocol will Benefit Canada's Competitiveness. Released by the Pembina Institute, the report examines real world evidence showing how initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have improved competitiveness.

Costs of Kyoto: What We Know. A six-page summary on the Environment Canada website.

Implementing the Kyoto Protocol: Practical, Affordable and Achievable Solutions. This report was presented by the David Suzuki Foundation to the House of Commons Finance Committee in November 2002.

 

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More information:

Green Leaders: Read about cities and companies in Canada and around the world that are addressing climate change and saving money.

The Case for Kyoto: The Failure of Voluntary Corporate Action. This study from the David Suzuki Foundation and the Pembina Institute looks at why voluntary corporate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions isn't enough.