Canada’s environmental performance has come under scrutiny after ranking poorly in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) released by Yale University. The country placed second-last among “Global West” nations and 29th globally. The index, based on 47 environmental indicators, highlighted Canada’s challenges in climate change, protected lands, and fishing.
Despite some improvements in marine and terrestrial habitat protection and emissions trends, Canada’s overall score of 57.78 out of 100 fell below the global and “Global West” averages. The nation’s weakest areas were climate change policy and greenhouse gas emissions trends. Notably, Canada ranked 162nd in the risk to biodiversity from pesticide pollution in agriculture.
In contrast, countries like Estonia excelled in environmental performance, primarily due to cutting down shale oil power generation and setting ambitious renewable energy targets. Denmark and Norway also demonstrated strong environmental commitments, with Denmark focusing on emissions indicators and Norway leading in environmental health and grassland conservation.
Experts suggest that Canada’s climate policy transition period under Prime Minister Mark Carney requires clearer goals and stronger regulatory frameworks to enhance environmental performance. Despite some progress, there is still significant room for improvement in addressing climate challenges.
As Canada faces criticism for its environmental standings, the need for data-driven policy-making emerges as a key recommendation to boost the country’s rankings. With increasing pressure to combat climate change, Canada must adopt more sustainable practices and set ambitious targets to secure a greener future.