Canada · Net-zero / target law
Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act
Canada's Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act became law on 29 June 2021 and sets a legislated national target of net-zero emissions by 2050. It requires milestone targets for 2030, 2035, 2040 and 2045, emissions reduction plans, progress and assessment reports, and independent advice and review.
In forcesince 29 Jun 2021Verified 4 Oct 2026
Section 6 states that the national greenhouse gas emissions target for 2050 is net-zero emissions. The Minister must set a target for each milestone year (2030, 2035, 2040 and 2045), each representing a progression beyond the previous one; the 2030 target is Canada's nationally determined contribution under the Paris Agreement, currently 40–45% below 2005 levels.
For each target the Minister must establish an emissions reduction plan — later plans at least five years before the year they relate to — and publish progress and assessment reports. Targets for 2035, 2040 and 2045 are to be set ten years in advance. The Act establishes the Net-Zero Advisory Body in legislation and requires the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development to examine and report on implementation at least every five years.
Legal journey
From proposal to operation
1 year from first proposal (19 November 2020) to entry into force (29 June 2021).
-
In force
Royal Assent; Act in force, legislating net-zero emissions by 2050
laws-lois.justice.gc.caOfficial
Each milestone links to the page it was checked against. Dates are given only to the precision the source supports.
Compare
Other net-zero and target laws on the Radar
- Republic of KoreaFramework Act on Carbon Neutrality and Green Growth for Coping with Climate CrisisIn force
- United KingdomClimate Change Act 2008 — 2050 net zero targetIn force