Climate and Environment in Canada
Compare recent bills on this issue across different governments.
Canada
View Bills →First Nations Clean Water Act
Gives First Nations power to set and enforce water rules on their lands. Seeks reliable, safe drinking water, enough water for needs, and better wastewater services.
Status
First reading
Timeline
Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 2
This bill changes taxes, housing, work rules, and travel complaints. It bans most non‑competes, raises housing guarantees, and adds new tax and crypto reporting for businesses.
Status
Senate pre-study
Timeline
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
Temporary fuel tax cuts aim to lower pump prices this summer. The bill also changes taxes, pensions, EI, payments rules, and food and pesticide orders.
Status
Royal assent
Timeline
National Framework on the Durability of Electronic Products and Essential Home Appliances Act
Sets national rules so appliances and electronics last longer and are easier to fix. Makers must provide labels, parts, manuals, and software support for a set time.
Status
Second reading
Timeline
National Strategy on Flood and Drought Forecasting Act
The federal government would build a plan to upgrade flood and drought forecasts. Better maps and alerts could help families, farmers, and towns prepare and protect homes and roads.
Status
Consideration in committee
Timeline
Tax Credit for Industrial Heat Recovery
Businesses can claim a 30% tax credit for new heat-recovery equipment used in Canadian industry. It lowers factory energy costs and can create local retrofit jobs.
Status
Second reading
Timeline
End Ban on Large Oil Tankers
The law would let large oil tankers use certain coastal ports. That may bring port jobs but raise spill and fishing risks for coastal communities.
Status
Second reading
Timeline
Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1
Changes taxes, funds housing and school meals, and creates open banking and stablecoin rules. It gives credits, housing money, and new bank protections.
Status
Royal assent
Timeline
Ontario
View Bills →Fast-Track Housing, Transit, and Water
Creates province-wide rules for transit fares, services, and unified payment. Limits local planning powers, speeds housing approvals, and exempts non-profit retirement homes from development charges.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Heat Safety and Climate Adaptation Act
Requires paid cool-down breaks, water, and heat training for workers. Creates a climate adaptation plan, a fund, housing temperature limits, and stronger flood and wildfire rules.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Workers' Protections and Faster Project Approvals
Employers can no longer charge for normal uniforms and some injury benefits rise. The law also speeds some project approvals and limits fees by talent agencies.
Status
Second Reading
Timeline
Ontario fast-tracks mines, rewrites species law
This law speeds up big projects and changes rules for mines, energy, and heritage. It limits some public reviews and can bar certain suppliers from energy contracts.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Schools and Buses Capped at 26°C
Classrooms and school buses must stay at or below 26°C while in use. Schools must make yearly heat plans and emergency steps.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Bill 68, Plan to Protect Ontario Act (Budget Measures), 2025 (No. 2)
Elections can be called anytime within five years. New tax credits, indexed benefits, pharmacy payment caps, and a new conservation agency change rules for businesses, families, and public lands.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Organic Waste Review and Annual Reporting
Creates a working group to study how to keep food and yard waste out of landfills. Requires yearly public reports on landfill organics and related greenhouse gas emissions.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Bill 40, Protect Ontario by Securing Affordable Energy for Generations Act, 2025
Large users like data centres face new connection rules. Some grid costs may move from electricity bills to taxes, which could lower rates but shift costs to taxpayers.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
British Columbia
View Bills →K'ómoks Treaty Becomes Law
This makes the K'ómoks Treaty law and gives the First Nation ownership and local rule over its lands. It changes farming, forestry, and shoreline rules for people and businesses there.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
Temporary Tax Cuts and Fast Approvals
You would pay less provincial income tax for at least two years. Cabinet can change rules to speed projects and cut public and Indigenous review.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Crackdown on Greenwashing Claims
Companies must prove and publish any climate claims they make. Misleading 'green' ads can bring heavy fines and public reports.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
BC Controls Crypto Power, First Nations Partnerships
Lets the government limit big power users like crypto and AI to protect home supply. It also allows co-ownership of a new transmission line with Indigenous partners; bills may change.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
BC fast-tracks clean energy projects
Permits for select wind and a new power line will move faster under one regulator. Some projects skip environmental assessment, with fewer public steps and quicker construction.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
B.C. Speeds Up Hospitals, Schools, Transit
Lets the province name priority projects and cut red tape. Faster permits and reviews aim to build hospitals, schools, and transit sooner while keeping Indigenous engagement rules.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
B.C. Ends Zero-Emission Vehicle Sales Mandate
Repeals B.C.'s EV sales targets and penalties. Dealers and carmakers face less paperwork, while buyers may see fewer EV options and more gas models.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
B.C. to repeal industrial emissions rules
B.C. would scrap its industrial emissions rulebook. Big plants would move to federal reporting and compliance. Carbon tax stays the same; some provincial funding and credits would end.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Alberta
View Bills →Teach Industry Skills and Create Fossil Fuel Day
Students will learn about oil, farming, forestry, construction and related jobs. February 13 will be Fossil Fuel Recognition Day, not a holiday.
Status
Comes into Force
Timeline
Approving Spending for Services and Projects
This bill lets government pay for hospitals, schools, roads, and social programs. It keeps services running and allows shifts to speed up school and health projects.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
Fast Track Major Project Approvals
Selected big projects must get provincial decisions within 120 business days, which can speed jobs and construction. Environmental and Indigenous reviews still take place.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Omnibus Red-Tape and Time Reform
Clocks stay on UTC-6 all year. It modernizes land records, changes park powers, tenant notice rules, and waste and land-use planning.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
New Grid Rules for Data Centres
Electricity rules will prioritize reliability and let the operator limit big users like data centres. Small hydrogen-in-gas pilots may start in some areas.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Water Law Overhaul: Reuse and Transparency
Captured rain and snow now count as water, and permits must be decided faster. Key water deals and monitoring data can be published, and licence holders face stronger reporting rules.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Major Plan for Long-Duration Grid Storage
Requires a province plan to add long-lasting batteries and grow a local battery industry. It aims to cut electricity costs, improve reliability, and bring new business.
Status
Second Reading
Timeline
Permanent Coal Ban in Sensitive Eastern Slopes
It bans coal in the most sensitive areas and pauses other coal until new land plans. It protects headwaters and wildlife and requires six months of Indigenous and community consultation.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Québec
View Bills →An Act to amend various provisions primarily for the purpose of reducing regulatory and administrative burdens
The text aims to simplify the processes and permits for businesses. This could reduce costs and formalities for owners and workers.
Status
Adoption
Timeline
Act to Accelerate the Granting of Required Authorizations for the Implementation of Priority and Nationally Significant Projects
This text creates a single authorization for certain large projects, speeding up timelines and reducing the number of permits. Environmental regulations can be adjusted under certain conditions.
Status
Étude détaillée en commission
Timeline
An Act to amend the Natural Gas Storage Act and the Natural Gas and Petroleum Pipelines Act to authorize the implementation of a pilot project related to the research or exploitation of an underground reservoir or certain fluids (amended title)
This project creates licenses and rules for underground exploration and storage, protects areas near cities, and may influence costs for property owners and communities.
Status
Prise en considération du rapport de commission
Timeline
Bill No. 1 on Credits, 2026-2027
This law allows for the payment of public services starting April 1st. Hospitals, schools, daycare centers, and roads receive funding without a tax increase.
Status
Adoption du principe
Timeline
Act to Combat Food Waste
The text requires companies to better manage surplus and to donate unsold food through community organizations, with penalties for non-compliance.
Status
Présentation
Timeline
Quebec Sets Net‑Zero by 2050 Law
Quebec sets net‑zero by 2050 in law. It will set five‑year targets and hold public talks. New rules for cars, homes, and industry may come later.
Status
Présentation
Timeline
Citizens Can Trigger Quebec Environmental Reviews
People could force public hearings on projects. The office gains independence, and projects may need greenhouse gas reports and could face conditions or rejection.
Status
Présentation
Timeline
Quebec pension fund adds social, green mandate
The Caisse must invest for lasting social and environmental benefits and report them each year. Your pension stays the same, with clearer public info on impacts.
Status
Présentation
Timeline
Newfoundland and Labrador
View Bills →AN ACT TO AMEND THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
Raises fines and daily penalties, expands search, seizure and phone or electronic warrant powers, and allows limited permits; government gets up to 180 days to answer listing advice.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
AN ACT TO AMEND THE FORESTRY ACT
Tightens fire rules near forests and in bushy areas. Officials can restrict access, require permits, and order help to fight fires.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
AN ACT TO AMEND THE WILD LIFE ACT
Hunters can be stopped for licence checks and face higher fines, jail, and licence bans for moose or caribou offences. Seized gear is returned if no charges in three months.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
AN ACT GRANTING TO HIS MAJESTY CERTAIN SUMS OF MONEY FOR DEFRAYING CERTAIN EXPENSES OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 2027 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SERVICE
Allows about $4 billion to keep hospitals, schools, roads and services running until the full budget is passed.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
AN ACT TO REMOVE ANOMALIES AND ERRORS IN THE STATUTE LAW
Mostly technical fixes to update, clarify, and repeal old rules. Few direct changes; snowmobile stickers and a greenhouse gas penalty reference may affect certain users and businesses.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
AN ACT TO AMEND THE REVENUE ADMINISTRATION ACT NO. 2
Fuel taxes are set at lower rates and a 7-cent cut stays. Drivers, boat operators, and airlines pay less at the pump.
Status
Committee
Timeline
Manitoba
View Bills →The Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act, 2026
Sales tax is cut on most store groceries. Home tax credits rise, a new land transfer tax starts, and the government can build schools with child care.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
The Consumer Protection Amendment Act
Buyers can request parts, tools, manuals, and diagnostic software for certain products. Sellers must provide them within a set or reasonable time and give free digital manuals.
Status
Concurrence and 3rd Reading
Timeline
The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act
Sets firm timelines for zoning and planning decisions and limits some appeals. Creates fast minor subdivision rules and allows small livestock changes with a simple zoning memo.
Status
Concurrence and 3rd Reading
Timeline
The Environmental Statutes Amendment Act
You will see more inspection and appeal records online. Businesses may face new inspection and waste levy fees set later by regulation.
Status
Concurrence and 3rd Reading
Timeline
Updated Rules for Drinking Water Systems
Most shared systems must get an operating licence. Landowners can be ordered to run unknown-owner systems and must follow safety rules with health officer approval.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
The Waste Reduction and Prevention Amendment Act (Strengthening Enforcement)
Officials can inspect waste sites, order fixes, and impose fines. Program operators may face audits and public posting of actions.
Status
Concurrence and 3rd Reading
Timeline
Tougher Penalties for Wildlife Crimes
Raises fines and jail time for harming protected animals and cancels hunting licences after conviction. Repeat offences bring longer suspensions and lifetime bans.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Clear Home Solar Net-Metering Rules
Homeowners can connect solar panels and get energy credits when they send extra power to the grid. Hydro must inspect and install meters within set deadlines.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Nova Scotia
View Bills →Conservation Officers bill boosts public safety
A new Conservation Officer Service would enforce laws with police-like powers. It tightens 911 privacy and helps stop intimate-image cases and risky properties.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Plan reforms: fishing rules and land-use changes
It shifts who writes fishing and land rules and could add costs for fishers, farmers, and towns.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Renters Get Carbon Monoxide and Radon Safety Rules
The bill would require landlords to install carbon monoxide alarms and test for radon. Tenants get radon results and protections, while landlords may face higher costs.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Cooling rules protect indoor heat in buildings
The bill would require certain buildings to keep indoor areas cool in summer. It aims to reduce heat risks for residents, especially in care homes and multi-unit housing.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Regulators Study Performance-Based Electricity Regulation
A regulator review will explore if incentives could influence bills and service. Any changes would depend on future rules.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Powering the Economy Act
An Act Respecting Energy
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Financial Measures (2026) Act
An Act Respecting Certain Financial and other Government Measures
Status
Reported to the House
Timeline
Accelerate Clean Power and Customer Choice
Makes it easier to add home solar or batteries, join community solar, and buy renewable power from new suppliers.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Saskatchewan
View Bills →Faster, Clearer Access to Public Records
Easier and faster access to government records. Officials can waive fees and must quickly release urgent health or environmental risk information.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Fertilizer Investment Credit Extended
Firms get more time to build or expand fertilizer plants and claim the tax credit. This can mean more local jobs, but also fiscal costs and environmental effects.
Status
Royal Assent
Timeline
Mandatory Wildfire Strategy and Annual Reports
One ministry must make and report on a clear wildfire plan. The government must share risk data and consult Indigenous and local communities each year.
Status
First Reading
Timeline
Northwest Territories
View Bills →Supplementary Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures), No. 1, 2026-2027.
Adds $61 million so public services keep running this year. It lets key departments spend more on health, education, infrastructure, justice, Indigenous and environment services.
Status
1st Reading
Timeline
Tlego'hli Got'ine Self-Government Agreement Act
This law makes the Tåegõhåî Gõt'ine Government's laws legally binding and sets how courts handle disputes. Court challenges need 14 days' notice.
Status
3rd Reading
Timeline
Northwest Territories Indigenous-Led Conservation Fund Establishment Act
Creates a trust to fund Indigenous-led conservation and protected areas, giving long-term funding to signed Indigenous partners and requiring public yearly audits and reports.
Status
3rd Reading
Timeline
Appropriation Act (Infrastructure Expenditures), 2025-2026.
Sets a one-year cap of $327.9 million for public buildings, roads, and equipment. Local impacts depend on which projects departments choose.
Status
2nd Reading
Timeline
Supplementary Appropriation Act (Infrastructure Expenditures), No. 1, 2024-2025
Adds $142 million extra spending for programs and projects this year. Money lets departments run services and build projects, but unused funds expire March 31, 2025.
Status
3rd Reading
Timeline
Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures), 2024-2025
This lets the government spend up to $2.23 billion to run public services in 2024–25. It sets borrowing caps so services keep running.
Status
2nd Reading
Timeline
Carbon Tax Repeal Act
Ends the territorial carbon tax on fuels and gas and keeps a fuel tax. Sellers get a one-time refund for carbon tax already paid.
Status
2nd Reading
Timeline
Supplementary Appropriation Act (Operations Expenditures), No. 4, 2023-2024.
This law lets government departments spend $207 million more to keep services running through March 31, 2024. It covers daily costs and applies retroactively to April 1, 2023.
Status
3rd Reading
Timeline
Yukon
View Bills →Mid-Year Budget Top-Up Keeps Services Running
This adds money to keep health, schools, roads, and help programs running until March 31, 2026. It does not add new taxes.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
Clean Energy Law Repealed
The law ends the Clean Energy Act and removes duties, targets, and some rules created by it. Programs tied only to the act may stop; contact the government office.
Status
Third Reading
Timeline
United States
View Bills →Water Resources Development Act 2026
Authorizes Corps projects, new offices, studies, and updates for navigation, flood risk, water supply, and ecosystem restoration.
Status
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 695.
Timeline
Responsible Data Center Siting
Directs the Secretary of Energy to publish and update best practices for choosing locations for data centers, considering grid, water, environment, community, jobs, and security.
Status
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Timeline
Myakka Wild and Scenic River
Designates 34 miles of the Myakka River as a Wild and Scenic River and sets management, acquisition, and coordination rules.
Status
Subcommittee Hearings Held
Timeline
Recycled Materials Attribution Act
Sets uniform federal rules for recycled content claims and allows mass balance accounting if certified; enforced by the Federal Trade Commission.
Status
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended) by Voice Vote.
Timeline
Northeast Lobsterman Protection Act
Extends the effective date for North Atlantic right whale regulations from 2028 to 2035.
Status
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
Timeline
Green and Resilient Health Care
Would support green, resilient health care facilities; full text not yet public.
Status
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Timeline
Enhancing Geothermal Production Act
Speeds small-scale geothermal exploration and creates priority leasing areas with rules about environmental reviews and consultation.
Status
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 674.
Timeline
Kentucky Wildlands Heritage Designation
Designates the Kentucky Wildlands as part of the National Heritage Area System; other details are not publicly available.
Status
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Timeline
Toronto
View Bills →Airport Expansion Could Block Housing Growth
If the runway is lengthened and jets fly, nearby people could hear more noise and face stricter building limits. Commuters may need big transit upgrades.
Status
Considered by City Council
Timeline
Major Deal Funds Transit and Housing
The deal brings funding for transit, housing, shelters, and highway upkeep. Riders get more safety measures; drivers face no immediate tolls.
Status
Adopted by City Council
Timeline
Protect Housing, Parks, and City Funding
The city wants the province to keep fees that fund parks, homes, and services. Cuts could mean fewer affordable homes and less money for parks and roads.
Status
Adopted by City Council
Timeline
City speeds waterfront dockwall assessments
City borrows $6.78M to inspect and plan waterfront repairs. Expect more shoreline inspections, some access limits, and future repair work.
Status
To be considered by City Council
Timeline
Cap on Driver Licences, Zero-Emission Exemption
Limits new taxi and ride-hail licences to the Oct 12 level until late 2024. Owners of zero-emission vehicles are exempt, and a court case could change this.
Status
Adopted by City Council
Timeline
Park Tree Removal Oversight and Planting
Sets rules for tree removal and replacement during park redevelopment. City permits apply on city land; the province will follow city standards on provincial land.
Status
Adopted by City Council
Timeline
Protect and Reopen Hanlan's Point Beach
City staff must open and make Hanlan's Point Beach safe by June 1 and plan shoreline repairs. You may see better access, some construction, or temporary closures.
Status
Adopted by City Council
Timeline
Limited Foundation Groundwater Discharge Rules
Developers may send small amounts of foundation water to some storm sewers if flow and quality limits are met. Manganese limit rises to 2.0 mg/L.
Status
N/A
Timeline