FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

YOUNG CANADIANS FOR RESOURCES (YCR) ADVOCATES FOR A BALANCED APPROACH TO EMISSIONS CAP POLICY

Calgary, December 11th 2023 — Young Canadians for Resources (YCR) is taking a proactive stance in the national conversation on emissions cap policies. While advocating for a reduction in oil and gas emissions, young Canadians express skepticism about the efficacy of additional legislation and a further cap on Canadian production.

A student competes in YCR’s Emissions Cap Case Competition, July 2023.

 “In our pursuit of a healthier planet and a more prosperous nation, Young Canadians for Resources are keen to contribute to the conversation around these legislations, and strive to be a positive voice for our nation’s future,” affirms Lexi Cook. This summer, YCR invited students from multiple universities to bring forward ideas for a fair and just emissions cap policy. The criteria was for policies to meaningfully reduce emissions while allowing the Canadian oil & gas industry to thrive with minimal disruptions. 

“All groups concluded that while reducing emissions is always a priority,  they were alarmed at how the differences in actual policy and regulations could do more harm than good”, said the organizer Lexi Cook, of Bishop’s University in Quebec. “Canada already has so many regulations that make us world leaders; any new policies should support both lower emissions and higher production. Because as long as the world still needs oil and gas, it should be Canadian.”

Dan Kirkham, an engineering student at Carleton University, was part of the winning team for the case competition. Their solution focused on emissions reductions but avoided adding harmful complexity to the existing regulations. “We need regulations that motivate, but don’t break our energy sector.”

Young Canadians for Resources fosters a constructive dialogue that considers the administrative burdens of achieving environmental sustainability while safeguarding the economic interests of the nation. For Canada to play a meaningful role in reducing global emissions, the oil and gas sector must remain competitive for investment. 

YCR acknowledges the ongoing commitment of Canadian producers to world-leading environmental standards and innovations, which have been in practice for decades. We argue that these innovations should be recognized and supported, contributing to a healthier planet while fostering economic prosperity.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lexi Cook

Professional Development Coordinator, Young Canadians for Resources

Email: [email protected]