Net-Zero Pathways: 10 values and principles

The NZAB has identified 10 values and principles that we believe are essential to developing the most likely pathways for Canada to achieve net-zero by 2050.

A PATHWAY connects where we are today with where we want to go. But it is not just a line on a graph. A pathway captures all the elements required to transform a system to better respond to societal needs and meet net-zero emission goals. A pathway has a clear beginning and end, with connecting steps that will be refined over time based on learning.

They will guide our work to engage and to develop advice.

The most likely pathways for Canada to achieve net-zero by2050:

FIVE VALUES

Seize the upsides

• Have the broadest benefits – for individuals, families, workers, businesses, and society as a whole

Put people first

• Support a just and fair transition

Motivate and empower Canadians

• Enable Canadians to envision and strive towards a future that is desirable in itself, for reasons beyond GHG emissions reductions and removals

Collaborate every step of the way

• Are grounded in real-world experience and built collaboratively

Recognize and respect regional differences and circumstances

• Take into account that there is no one-size-fits-all approach for Canada and prioritize place-based solutions

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FIVE DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Act early, and urgently

• Prioritize early and deep reductions
• Start now, use a carbon budget as a basic tool, and increase ambition to keep the 2050 goal within reach

Be bold and proactive

• Are strategic and ambitious
• Detail the steps required to attain a defined future state, and have a clear description of the type and magnitude of changes required to get there

Acknowledge there is more certainty than uncertainty

• Prioritize available, at scale solutions
• Move decisively to implement what we already know will work to reduce or remove emissions

Don’t get caught in the “net”

• Prioritize emissions reductions and use removal and offsets when necessary
• Do not allow for increases in GHG emissions

Beware of dead-ends

• Avoid locking-in systems and technologies that will become emissions liabilities before 2050
• Do not require retooling shorter-term solutions at greater expense and lost time