This June 25-27th, Canada will host the G8 and G20 summits–and we need to make sure that climate action is on the agenda! As hosts of these summits, we cannot stand by without taking this opportunity to take action, to build our movement, and to get our messages across: We want a sustainable and just future for all.
What is the G8/G20? And why do we need to Shift Power?
The G8 and G20 are a group of finance ministers and central bank governors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Germany, Mexico, Republic of Korea, Russia, Saudia Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the USA, and the United Kingdom. They have selected themselves as a group that is fit to determine the fate of the world’s financial system–a system that is currently not benefitting those impacted first and worst by the climate crisis. Argentina and Mexico are the only G20 nations that have met their Kyoto commitments; many of the G20 countries are involved in the Alberta Tar Sands and other extractive industries worldwide; and climate change and climate financing are not being discussed at the G20. The Youth Climate Movement must shift power to ensure that people’s voices are heard and that responsible climate action is planned to address the climate crisis.
People in Canada are deeply concerned about Canada’s inaction in the face of the biggest environmental threat of our time, and we must make sure that everyone knows. The government’s weak greenhouse has reduction targets, obstructive role at the international climate negotiations, and their clear desire to expand the destructive tar sands are proof that we are lacking leadership. As members of one of the world’s worst polluters and wealthiest nations, we need to hold our government responsible.
We want the Canadian government to commit to:
1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 25%-40% below 1990 levels by 2020; and 80%-95% below 1990 levels by 2050;
2. Stop subsidies to dirty fossil fuel industries within five years and ensure a just transition for workers in these industries;
3. Implement an aggressive strategy to create good, green jobs;
4. Allocate targeted funding to address the impact of climate change to developing countries, displaced migrants, and Canada’s northern, rural, indigenous communities and low-income peoples;
5. Sign the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and respect principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent for indigenous and impacted communities so they can participate effectively at all levels of decision-making to address climate change and the industries that are exacerbating the climate crisis.
Learn more about CYCC’s G20 Mobilization Strategy and click on the buttons above to get involved!
