Energy-Environment Federalism in Canada: Finding a Path for the Future

Abstract

The study, written by Positive Energy faculty affiliate and Mount Royal University professor Duane Bratt, examines the role of federalism at the intersection of energy and environment policy in Canada. Energy and the environment are inexorably linked: energy production is a major economic driver in Canada, but energy production and consumption produce significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. There have been major battles between the federal government and provinces, or between provinces, on energy and environment policy in Canadian history. These conflicts have had significant political, economic, and environmental costs. Professor Bratt makes two key arguments. First, he emphasizes the importance of identifying the few windows of opportunity when a consensus can be achieved. Second, when windows of opportunity are unavailable, decision-makers should focus on achieving small levels of cooperation through bilateral or unilateral provincial initiatives.