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Hi I'm Jim Prentice, Canada's Minister of the Environment.
As Canadians, we are so fortunate to live in a country that is rich with vast natural resources - resources that enrich our economy and also our quality of life. So, it is important that every generation work to protect these natural resources for the next.
We all know that climate change is a threat to our country, as well as to countries around the world. And that is why fighting climate change is important to Canadians.
Failure to make progress on this issue is simply not an option.
Climate change is a complex problem, to be sure. But this Government is working hard to find a solution.We have committed to reducing Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent from 2006 levels by 2020 and also reducing by 60-70 percent by 2050. We are also supporting cleaner energies, such as wind and biofuels, and we are providing billions of dollars for clean technology research and for development.
Right now, Environment Ministers and political leaders around the world are preparing for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
At this landmark meeting, both industrialized and developing countries will work on behalf of all global citizens towards an agreement that significantly reduces global greenhouse gas emissions in a way that does not restrain economic growth or distort global competition.
While the challenges with respect to climate change are great, our responsibility is also clear. We are the stewards of our environment, and we will continue to count it amongst our most cherished and defining characteristics. The time has come for real action. The moment is now and the world must act.
Thank you.