Canada's Carbon Emissions Fell in 2023 Despite Economic and Population Growth

Early government estimates show a 1% emissions reduction, but progress remains insufficient to meet 2030 climate targets.

Canada's greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 dropped to 694 megatonnes, a 1% reduction from 2022 and 8.5% below 2005 levels.
This marks the first time in Canada's history that emissions have decreased while the economy and population grew simultaneously.
Key reductions occurred in the oil and gas sector and buildings, attributed to methane regulations, retrofitting incentives, and a milder winter.
The federal government released these early estimates to guide policy adjustments as Canada remains off track to meet its 2030 Paris Agreement target of a 40-45% emissions reduction from 2005 levels.
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault highlighted that while progress is being made, significant policy and action are still required to achieve long-term goals.