Latest news with #EnergyandNaturalResources
Edmonton Journal
6 hours ago
- Business
- Edmonton Journal
Federal Liberals in ‘honeymoon' with Alberta — for now
Mark Carney's liberal government is still enjoying a 'honeymoon' with Alberta's business community, but industry groups warn the clock is ticking for the prime minister to back his words up with action. Article content Executives in the oil and gas industry are waiting to find out if the Carney government will fast-track a new pipeline as part of its nation-building agenda. Article content Article content Until they get that clarity, they are still dealing with significant policy uncertainty from Ottawa, according to the Business Council of Alberta, which outlined potential actions to improve investment in a recent report. Article content Article content 'There (are) still lots of concerns and lots of issues to deal with, but there's more reason to be hopeful now than we've seen in a long time,' said Mike Holden, the council's chief economist. Article content A federal bill that would speed up natural resource and infrastructure projects that are deemed in the national interest has drawn cautious optimism from the energy sector, amid concerns from Indigenous peoples and environmental groups. Article content In its wish list for Ottawa, Holden's group wants the government to repeal or reform policies that have held back investment in the oilpatch, including a tanker ban on the West Coast and a proposed oil and gas emissions cap. Article content Article content However, there is hope among many businesses that Ottawa could fast-track major projects — namely pipelines — by overriding some of these controversial policies. Article content Article content 'I think this is the honeymoon with Carney,' Holden said. Article content Industry and the federal government are having important discussions about increasing Canada's ability to export and develop natural resources, according to Deborah Yedlin, chief executive of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Article content 'There's a sense of optimism that I have not sensed from an energy standpoint in 10 years,' Yedlin said. Article content Federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson has met regularly with those in the energy sector since he was sworn in, she said.
Calgary Herald
15 hours ago
- Business
- Calgary Herald
Federal liberals in ‘honeymoon' with Alberta — for now
Mark Carney's liberal government is still enjoying a 'honeymoon' with Alberta's business community, but industry groups warn the clock is ticking for the prime minister to back his words up with action. Article content Executives in the oil and gas industry are waiting to find out if the Carney government will fast-track a new pipeline as part of its nation-building agenda. Article content Article content Until they get that clarity, they are still dealing with significant policy uncertainty from Ottawa, according to the Business Council of Alberta, which outlined potential actions to improve investment in a recent report. Article content Article content 'There (are) still lots of concerns and lots of issues to deal with, but there's more reason to be hopeful now than we've seen in a long time,' said Mike Holden, the council's chief economist. Article content A federal bill that would speed up natural resource and infrastructure projects that are deemed in the national interest has drawn cautious optimism from the energy sector, amid concerns from Indigenous peoples and environmental groups. Article content In its wish list for Ottawa, Holden's group wants the government to repeal or reform policies that have held back investment in the oilpatch, including a tanker ban on the West Coast and a proposed oil and gas emissions cap. Article content Article content However, there is hope among many businesses that Ottawa could fast-track major projects — namely pipelines — by overriding some of these controversial policies. Article content Article content 'I think this is the honeymoon with Carney,' Holden said. Article content Industry and the federal government are having important discussions about increasing Canada's ability to export and develop natural resources, according to Deborah Yedlin, chief executive of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Article content 'There's a sense of optimism that I have not sensed from an energy standpoint in 10 years,' Yedlin said. Article content Federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson has met regularly with those in the energy sector since he was sworn in, she said.
Cision Canada
21-07-2025
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Regrowing Alberta's Forests
CALGARY, AB, July 21, 2025 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada, together with Indigenous communities, private and non-profit sector leaders, and provincial partners, is taking action to regenerate Alberta's forests — protecting clean air and preserving the province's vast natural landscapes for generations to come. Today, Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced, in collaboration with Project Forest, The Carbon Farmer and FIND Biomass Inc, a joint investment of over $125 million for four projects that will plant 12 million trees and restore critical habitat for species at risk throughout Alberta, such as caribou. Investments will help to create and restore biodiverse forests and wildlife habitat and sequester carbon while creating seasonal and full-time jobs for surrounding communities in Alberta. We are not just planting trees — we are building a stronger, healthier and more-resilient Canada. Quotes "Forests are more than ecosystems — they are economic drivers, climate solutions and cultural touchstones. That's why the Government of Canada is taking action in partnership with the Government of Alberta, Indigenous communities, the private sector and non-profit organizations to restore forest landscapes and grow a greener economy. Building a resilient Albertan economy means working across sectors and jurisdictions to turn shared goals into lasting impacts." MP Corey Hogan Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources "Our government is committed to supporting biodiversity by investing in the protection of wildlife habitats and species at risk, like the caribou. The survival of this iconic Canadian species depends on healthy forests, which is why we are working with partners across Alberta to protect and restore its habitat. This initiative will help preserve nature while strengthening local economies." The Honourable Julie Dabrusin Minister of Environment and Climate Change "The 2 Billion Trees program is a transformative initiative that will shape Canada's future forever — ushering in a greener, healthier world where more Canadians can connect with nature. The generous funding Project Forest has received is not just support; it is a catalyst that will supercharge our mission to rewild Canada, one forest at a time. This is a game-changing moment for our organization, and words alone cannot fully capture the depth of our gratitude. This funding empowers us to make an even greater impact, faster, and we are profoundly thankful for this incredible opportunity." Mike Toffan Founder and Executive Director, Project Forest "The food that farmers produce on their land is critical for us all. However, some fields or portions thereof that have been cleared of trees historically are actually better suited for forest ecosystems, due to factors like soil quality, parcel size, the need for erosion prevention, the value of water retention and the benefits of habitat connectivity. The 2BT program will allow us to proudly plant trees with farmers who want to manage their land with a mosaic of best ecological practices." Brad Rabiey President, The Carbon Farmer "As an Indigenous business, we are committed to creating Indigenous employment and training opportunities while contributing to environmental sustainability. This project allows FIND Biomass to collaborate with a landowner who shares our dedication to social and environmental values. By planting hybrid poplar, a fast-growing species, we will sequester ten times more carbon than a natural forest." Melissa Minks FIND Biomass Inc Follow Natural Resources Canada on LinkedIn.
Cision Canada
18-07-2025
- Climate
- Cision Canada
Canada Invests in Wildfire Innovation and Resilience Through New Centre of Excellence Français
OTTAWA, ON, July 18, 2025 /CNW/ - With wildfires impacting Canadians across the country, the federal government is taking action to prevent wildfires, mitigate their effects and boost resilience. The Government of Canada's first priority is protecting Canadians and supporting those affected by wildfire. Today, the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, announced an investment of $11.7 million over four years to establish the Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada (WRCC). Funded through the Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative, the WRCC will serve as a national centre of excellence and virtual hub for wildland fire innovation and knowledge exchange. The WRCC will advance many of the actions in the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter, agreed to by the leaders of the G7 this spring in Canada and endorsed by the leaders of Australia, India, Mexico, the Republic of Korea and South Africa. It will bring together domestic and international governments, communities impacted by wildfires, the private sector and individual experts to share knowledge, facilitate collaboration and accelerate the use of cutting-edge science and technology in wildfire prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response. It will also support Indigenous fire stewardship and the cultural use of fire, recognizing and respecting traditional knowledge as a critical component of wildfire resilience. Minister Hodgson also delivered the latest national wildfire forecast. Looking ahead, Environment and Climate Change Canada's weather forecasts point to above-average temperatures across much of Canada from July through August, with dry conditions expected to intensify in the coming weeks, particularly in the west and north. Based on these weather forecasts, Natural Resources Canada's modelling predicts elevated wildfire risk from Yukon eastward to northwestern Ontario and in Nova Scotia and eastern New Brunswick. By August, wildfire activity is expected to continue to increase and persist to well-above-average conditions over much of western Canada, with the highest fire danger in southern British Columbia. Throughout this wildfire season and beyond, Canada is coordinating cross-jurisdictional collaboration, supporting those on the front lines, protecting Canadians and equipping communities with the tools and knowledge they need to stay informed and stay safe. Quotes "Wildfires pose a real threat to the safety, health and economic well-being of communities across Canada. Our government is leading efforts to strengthen wildfire management and reduce wildfire risks in Canada. Today's announcement will allow us to advance our G7 commitments and prepare for future challenges by advancing wildfire knowledge and developing innovative ways to build resilience and protect Canadian families and homes." The Honourable Tim Hodgson Minister of Energy and Natural Resources "As Canada's first-ever Minister for Community Resilience, I'm focused on making sure communities have the tools they need to prepare for and respond to wildfires. The launch of this centre reflects our government's priority to strengthen local capacity through research, innovation and practical support so communities are better equipped to face longer, more-intense fire seasons." The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada "This summer, we are witnessing the direct impact of climate change on communities across our country, as we are seeing an increase of wildfires across Canada. Collaboration, scientific research and improved technologies are essential in adapting to this new reality. As wildfire smoke impacts the daily lives of Canadians, I urge everyone to monitor the local air quality statements and warnings, using the WeatherCAN app, as well as checking the Air Quality Health Index in their area." The Honourable Julie Dabrusin Minister of Environment and Climate Change "Advancing emergency management means First Nations must be full and equal partners. This investment honours First Nations leadership, strengthening community readiness by prioritizing the sharing of cultural practices and the fire management expertise of the community. Together, we are building a more-resilient future for generations to come." The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty Minister of Indigenous Services "By integrating Indigenous fire stewardship, advanced technology and diverse knowledge-sharing systems from a place-based network to communities of practice, the WRCC aims to empower communities, academics, industries, organizations, individuals and others to work together toward transforming wildfire management in Canada." Glenn McGillivray Managing Director, Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction and WRCC Board Vice Chair Quick Facts The WRCC is a non-profit entity supported by several organizations, including core partners – the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction and FPInnovations – and foundational partners – the National Indigenous Fire Safety Council, Thompson Rivers University Wildfire and Forest Products Association of Canada. The establishment of the WRCC aligns with strategic direction to engage societal partners in addressing wildfire risks, as outlined by the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers' Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy. The WRCC is funded under Natural Resources Canada's Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative, which invests in programs and activities to enhance wildfire resilience in Canada and reduce wildfire risks in support of the National Adaptation Strategy. Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada Centre of Excellence for Wildland Fire Innovation and Resilience Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction FPInnovations National Indigenous Fire Safety Council TRU Wildfire Thompson Rivers University Forest Products Association of Canada Canadian Wildland Fire Information System: Monthly and Seasonal Forecasts Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy WildFireSat Kananaskis Wildfire Charter Wildfires – National Adaptation Strategy Follow Natural Resources Canada on LinkedIn. SOURCE Natural Resources Canada
Cision Canada
15-07-2025
- Health
- Cision Canada
Government of Canada and FCM Invest $16.9 million to Grow Greener Communities and Enhance Wellbeing with Tree Planting Projects Français
OTTAWA, ON, /CNW/ - Tree canopy coverage plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in urban and rural environments. Healthy canopies offer a wide range of benefits to communities, including reduced risks of flooding and erosion, decreased heat island effects, improved air quality, increased biodiversity and enhanced mental and physical health. Today, the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and Rebecca Bligh, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), announced an investment of $16,886,020 to support communities in planting 77,000 new trees. The 27 projects receiving funding will result in 77,519 new trees planted in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia, restoring or increasing canopy in rural and urban areas, enhancing recreational spaces, improving habitat connectivity, providing health benefits to residents and creating tree maintenance jobs. The funded projects will plant trees on streets and boulevards, in parks and recreational spaces, on private and institutional land, in residential areas and for ecological restoration and connectivity. Notable projects include: The City of Kitchener, ON, will plant 19,207 trees to enhance park spaces, expand naturalized areas and create habitat for wildlife and pollinators, while replacing trees that were lost to Emerald Ash Borer infestations. The project focuses on planting trees in areas with low canopy cover to reduce heat island effects and to ensure an equitable distribution of environmental benefits to all community members. The innovative tool the City developed to help prioritize tree planting in underserved areas was recognized with a Smart 20 Award from Smart Cities Connect. Assiniboine Park Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization working in partnership with City of Winnipeg, MB, will plant 600 trees in Assiniboine Park. The initiative aims to enrich the biodiversity, forest health and ecosystem services of the area, while addressing the loss of trees due to Dutch Elm disease and helping achieve 42% canopy coverage by 2065. The City of Charlottetown, PEI, in partnership with local watershed groups, will plant 1,200 trees and shrubs in 4 parks across the city. In the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona in 2022, the city lost an estimated 12,600 mature trees, dropping the canopy cover rate from 20.9% to 17.6%. The project is a key part of the city's efforts to restore canopy cover levels by 2034. The City of Ottawa, ON, working in partnership with EnviroCentre, a not-for-profit organization, will plant 3,750 trees on private residential lands. As approximately 40% of Ottawa's urban area is private property, planting on residential lands is an important opportunity to expand canopy cover and provide benefits to residents, like cleaning the air and reducing the impact of heat waves. Funding for these projects is being provided by the Government of Canada's 2 Billion Trees Program and delivered through FCM's Growing Canada's Community Canopies (GCCC) initiative. Announced in May 2024, GCCC will support the planting of at least 1.2 million new trees across Canada by the end of March 2031 while offering funding, resources and coaching to communities. Communities looking to expand their tree canopies can apply for funding until September 18, 2025. Tree planting funding will accept applications until September 18, 2025, for the 2026 planting season to support communities in expanding their canopies. For more information about funded projects, please see the backgrounder. "Trees are a powerful tool in building stronger, more-resilient communities. This project is a great example of local leadership driving national progress which will deliver meaningful benefits for Canadians and our environment. Through the 2 Billion Trees program, we are proud to partner with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to grow greener, healthier and more-resilient neighbourhoods across the country for generations to come." — The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources "This government is committed to protecting and restoring nature like never before. Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to fight climate change, improve air and water quality, protect biodiversity, create good jobs, and bring nature closer to Canadians. The thousands of trees being planted in communities across the country will provide health and ecological benefits for generations to come." — The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change "Trees are an essential part of the fabric of our communities, and the projects funded through GMF's Growing Canada's Community Canopies initiative will build greener and healthier spaces for all Canadians. Restoring and expanding tree canopies in communities through new tree planting efforts will protect and restore vital ecosystems and create local jobs while providing tangible health benefits to residents. Investing in our canopies today is an investment in the quality of life for generations to come." — Rebecca Bligh, FCM President About FCM's Green Municipal Fund FCM's Green Municipal Fund (GMF) is a globally unique organization providing funding and education to municipalities to help them both reach net-zero and build resilient communities, while also delivering economic and social benefits such as jobs, housing and infrastructure. Since inception in 2000, it has helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2.9 million tonnes, funded more than 13,000 person-years of employment, enabled nearly 30,000 sustainable affordable housing units, and contributed $1.24 billion to the national GDP via the more than 2,336 approved projects. GMF manages approximately $2.4 billion in programs funded by the Government of Canada. Quick facts GMF's Growing Canada's Community Canopies (GCCC) is a $291M initiative, ending in 2031, that supports planting new trees across the country. GCCC funds planting the right type of trees in the right places so that communities across Canada can grow, manage and protect their tree canopies. The initiative is designed with smaller, rural, and remote communities in mind to encourage local climate action while enhancing tree survivability rates, fostering equitable access to trees across communities. Trees offer vital ecosystem services to communities as they provide carbon sequestration, stormwater management, cooling and air filtration. For example, the annual value of ecosystem services by the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario is estimated at $331 million. Investing in green infrastructure delivers substantial returns. According to TD Economics, for every dollar spent on annual maintenance, Toronto's urban forest returns anywhere from $1.35 – $3.20 worth of benefits and cost savings each year. TD Economics (2014, June 9). Trees improve public health by reducing stress and air pollution. For example, PaRX is a nature prescription program that emphasizes nature as a tool for improving mental and physical health. Through a partnership with Tree Canada, urban forestry experts provide personalized support to tree planting funding applicants in the application and implementation phases of projects, bridging the urban forestry knowledge gap many communities face. The guidance from urban forestry coaches helps ensure high tree survivability rates and maximize the environmental and social impacts of planting projects. GCCC has produced an evolving suite of knowledge and training resources designed to enhance urban forestry expertise in Canadian communities. Resources cover topics from selecting the right species and planting site to putting equity at the centre of tree planting projects. Associated links Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Fund Growing Canada's Community Canopies GCCC Tree planting funding GCCC Urban forestry coaching Government of Canada 2 Billion Trees Commitment Government of Canada 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan Tree Canada SOURCE Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
