We have proposed a climate summit in Montreal to deal with both global action on methane and clean energy transitions. This was inspired by the Global Methane Pledge, as well as We Don’t Have Time’s initiative “Buy More Time.” The vision is to have an international summit on methane reduction similar to what had occurred in Montreal for the Ozone Protocol.
We are hoping that the Canadian Government would consider holding an international meeting in Montreal on this issue. We are proposing that the meeting be entitled “Montreal Climate Accord: Global Action on Methane & Clean Energy Transitions.” We suggest that the methane initiative be combined with the idea of having Canadian innovation lead the way on the displacement of coal in Asia.
With regards to the methane agreement, perhaps a goal of at least 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030 could be achieved with legally binding agreements.
With regards to displacing coal in Asia, the first option should be the use of renewable energy. In some cases, however, experts are suggesting that nuclear power can be a bridge for countries that are interested. Canada could potentially lead SMR Partnerships, Clean Finance, and Regulatory Building Capacity with Asia Pacific partners. We believe Canada is well placed to lead strategic cooperation to displace coal with renewables as well as selected use of nuclear power. Although we understand that nuclear power remains controversial, we tend to agree with many experts that it can be part of the energy mix towards helping getting off coal.