Hot Air

While watching CBC Newsworld earlier today Prime Minister Paul Martin had me shaking my head in disbelief. He continues to go on and on about how the Liberals are not only committed to the environment but how they've made great strides to that effect. He also indirectly criticized the US for its rejection of Kyoto. I hate to burst Martin's bubble but despite their rejection of Kyoto the Americans are the ones who have made great strides in the reduction of so-called greenhouse gas emissions while Canada has failed miserably.

From 1995 to 2002 the US cut its emissions by 45%.[1] Meanwhile here in Canada we have actually seen an increase in numbers - we have gone up by 24% over our 1990 levels which actually leaves us 30% above target![2] So much for Kyoto. While Paul Martin talks the talk the US walks the walk. The Americans don't need to sign an accord which exempts some of the world's worst offenders. They have enjoyed success with a made-in-the-USA solution. But here in Canada the only thing Martin and the Liberals have done is offer rhetoric. The numbers don't lie.

Isn't it also ironic how the PM flew to Montreal to gloat about his environment record in a Boeing 727? Compare that to the Conservative aircraft of choice, the Airbus 320, internationally recognized for its low emissions and noise pollution levels. In fact the difference between the two aircraft is about 70%![3] Boeing is actually phasing out the archaic craft.[4] When it comes to the environment, Paul Martin and the Liberals are full of hot air.

[1] Canadian Environmental Law Association
[2] Key GHG Data (UN report) PDF
[3] European Commission
[4] Boeing

Further reading: PollutionWatch.org report Shattering the Myth of Pollution Progress in Canada : A National Report PDF

cross-posted to Rite Turn Only

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