CIAC pleased to see chemistry as an integral part of Alberta’s climate and emissions management strategy

October 31, 2019

The Chemistry Industry Association of Canada (CIAC) is pleased to see that with the tabling of Bill 19, the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction Act (TIER), the Alberta government continues the province’s history of leadership on carbon pricing frameworks.

Alberta was the first jurisdiction in North American to apply a price on industrial greenhouse gas emissions in 2007. Now, TIER will create certainty for industry – including the chemistry industry – regarding carbon pricing which is critical for companies looking to invest in the province.

“The TIER program establishes an appropriate carbon pricing framework for our sector. One that acknowledges the energy-intensive, trade-exposed nature of Alberta-based chemical manufacturers,” said Greg Moffatt, CIAC’s Senior Director, Business and Economics. “It creates the conditions to drive new technology and innovation to reduce emissions while at the same time continuing to attract new investments and jobs while adding value to Alberta’s world-class, low-carbon natural gas resource.”

Federal and provincial governments are seeking low-carbon solutions as they confront the impacts of climate change. Canada’s chemistry sector and its highly skilled workers are uniquely positioned to provide innovative solutions in the fight against climate change. Since 2004, CIAC members have invested heavily cutting their carbon dioxide emissions by 18 per cent. Technology and innovation are key pathways to addressing climate change and managing emissions and we will continue to seek opportunities to improve on our record of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The most important emerging technologies moving the world to a low-carbon economy use chemistry to do so: green buildings and insulation; transportation innovation such as lighter vehicles, synthetic fuels and batteries; energy advancements in wind and solar; more efficient food packaging and chemical fertilizers; and air conditioning and refrigerant sectors. Alberta and Canada’s chemistry sector are a world leader in low-intensity carbon chemical production.

CIAC congratulates the government on moving forward with TIER. We will continue to work collaboratively with the Alberta government in developing its Climate and Emissions Management Strategy.