OTTAWA – “This Earth Day, Canadians from coast to coast to coast are reflecting on their personal environmental footprint and renewing their commitment to living a greener lifestyle, as we recommit ourselves to do everything in our power to protect our breathtaking natural environment for future generations.
First celebrated 40 years ago in 1970, the first Earth day brought together grassroots conservation groups to mark the beginning of the modern environmental movement. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in more than 180 countries and by more than 500 million people who seek to engage their nation’s leaders on serious environmental issues like climate change.
Canadians want to show environmental leadership on the world stage. The Conservative government been criticized at home and around the world for their contempt and inaction towards the environment. Since coming to power, the Conservative record is four failed climate change plans, rotating environment ministers and endless delays in establishing greenhouse gas emission standards.
The Conservatives’ lack of leadership on the environment is hurting our economic future. That’s why, last week, Liberals proposed a motion in the House of Commons calling on the government to immediately put in place a national climate change plan with economy-wide regulations on emissions and strategic investments in renewable and clean energy – including the creation of clean energy jobs. This motion was passed. We continue to urge the Conservative government to respect the desire of Canadians to adopt a principled environmental policy, backed up by real action.
A future Liberal government will put in place a credible, achievable climate and clean energy plan that will create jobs and make our economy – and our country – one of the cleanest and most competitive in the world.
Today, I encourage Canadians to consider how small changes in their daily habits – from taking public transit more often, to switching to energy-efficient light bulbs, to recycling more – can make a real difference on the environment.
On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary caucus, I wish all Canadians a Happy Earth Day.
Michael Ignatieff MP
Leader, The Liberal Party of Canada