Canada's new environment minister, intoxicated with climate virtue like her predecessor Steven Guilbeault, is going on a spending spree—taxpayers be damned.
At the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held November 10-21 in Belém, Brazil, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Julie Dabrusin, announced $392 million in spending on international climate action projects.
The announcement follows tabling of the federal budget, which contains a whopping $78.3 billion deficit. Despite a precarious financial position, the Government of Canada continues to spend big on trying to change the weather.
The funding supports "inclusive" locally led solutions in developing nations, including adaptation measures to strengthen food security, emissions reductions, and sustainable resource management amid rising temperatures and extreme weather.
"By investing in inclusive, locally led climate solutions, Canada is helping communities adapt to their changing environments, strengthen food security, and create sustainable economic opportunities. Through global co-operation, innovation, and ambitious leadership, we’re deepening partnerships that deliver real results for people and the planet," said Dabrusin.
It is uncertain if the spending will be subject to audits and scrutiny.
The program advances Canada's 2021 pledge at COP26 in Glasgow: $5.3 billion over five years (2021-2026) for climate finance in developing countries, with at least 40% for adaptation.
To date, Canada has mobilized over $4.4 billion from prior and current commitments, emphasizing agriculture, water, and biodiversity. As a UNFCCC signatory since 1992 and G7 leader, Canada champions equitable finance for the Global South under the Paris Agreement.
COP30 prioritizes multilateralism, scaling adaptation funding, and amplifying Amazon perspectives to meet 1.5°C goals and mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035.