Amendments to the Clean Energy Act introduced

On Monday, October 7, the Government of Yukon introduced revised draft amendments to the Clean Energy Act in the Yukon Legislative Assembly that will legislate an intensity-based greenhouse gas emissions reduction target – or mining intensity target – of 45 per cent by 2035 for placer and quartz mining and the post-production and abandoned mine sectors.

Because greenhouse gas emissions from mining can vary considerably from year to year, it can be difficult to set an absolute cap on emissions. Intensity-based targets will set desired levels of greenhouse gas emissions per mining activity or unit of material produced, allowing for a reduction of emissions regardless of how many mines are in operation. This target supports the territory in achieving its overall goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 onwards.

The Clean Energy Act is an important tool in the Government of Yukon’s efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, build a green economy and adapt to climate change.

Creating a greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for the mining industry is a Government of Yukon commitment under Our Clean Future: A Yukon Strategy for Climate Change, Energy and a Green Economy and contributes to the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.