Today, the Government of Canada published the Clean Fuel Regulations (CFR), which is to replace the previously existing Renewable Fuels Regulations. The new regulations focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).
The CFR set increasingly stringent requirements on producers and importers to reduce the carbon intensity of gasoline and diesel, according to a recent news release. Once fully implemented, the CFR will help cut up to 26.6 million tonnes of greenhouse gas pollution by 2030, or roughly the amount of GHGs currently generated by the entire Canadian economy in two weeks.
The new regulations are said to be in alignment with approaches being taken in British Columbia, Oregon and California.
The federal government touts that these changes will not only bolster economic opportunities for biofuel feedstock providers, such as farmers and foresters, but it will also help Canadian fuel producers to compete in the rapidly expanding global market for clean energy.
The release also points to the development of electric vehicle infrastructure across the country and says they are moving to “increase the availability and affordability of zero-emission vehicles, which cut pollution and make people’s daily commutes cheaper.”
Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, says the move to power economy with more low-carbon and clean fuels is happening across the country.
“I am excited to see new investments that are creating sustainable jobs for workers and their communities. It just goes to show that we can deliver clean air, good jobs, and a strong economy all at once,” says Guilbeault. “The Clean Fuel Regulations help secure a foundation for more growth in the industries that will help Canada achieve net-zero emissions while continuing Canada’s role as a global supplier of energy.”