Budget Information

The Government of Canada has committed more than $4 billion to programs and initiatives addressing climate change issues over the last six years, including $2 billion in Budget 2003 alone.

Budget 2004 announced $800 million in funding over the 2006-2010 period for an advanced science and technology fund to help support emerging environmental technologies. For example, investment in fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles and new lightweight materials can deliver environmental benefits and improve the competitiveness of the Canadian automotive sector.

Budget 2003 committed $3 billion to key environmental initiatives including $2 billion over five years to help implement the Government of Canada's Climate Change Plan for Canada. The Climate Change Plan includes measures to encourage new environmental technologies and funding for initiatives ranging from renewable energy to alternative fuels, where areas such as building retrofits, wind power, fuel cells and ethanol will be considered.

In his 2002 Economic Fiscal Update, the Minister of Finance renewed the Government's commitment to improve the environment by working with the provinces and industry to ensure that Canada lives up to its international responsibilities on climate change, as embodied in the Kyoto accord.

Budget 2001 announced new spending and tax measures intended to ensure continued progress toward a cleaner and healthier environment.

Budget 2000 provided $700 million between 1999-2000 and 2002-03 to preserve and improve Canada's natural environment, harness new technology and respond effectively to the challenges of climate change.