Calgary needs to take action on its fair share of global GHG emissions. This can be done by using energy more efficiently and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. Calgary is joining other cities worldwide in this effort to reduce the impacts of global warming and climate change. 

To achieve net-zero emissions, we need to cut GHG emissions as much as possible. Any remaining emissions must be removed and stored from the atmosphere.

In Calgary, reducing emissions can lead to a strong and future-ready economy. One that is low-carbon, diverse, and inclusive. Striving for net-zero by 2050 brings many benefits for Calgarians:

The Climate Implementation Plan sets the stage for the first four years (2023 - 2026) of action under the Calgary Climate Strategy: Pathways to 2050. Calgary is taking real action to reduce emissions by:

• Focusing on actions and programs for its residential communities, commercial buildings, mobility options and energy supply.
• Protecting, restoring and maintaining its natural environment.
• Providing resources for Calgarians to take climate action.  

We all have a role in taking action on climate change. The City is helping by offering incentives, financing, and education programs. We are also reducing emissions from our operations and supporting research and innovation.

But we can’t do it alone. Climate action needs everyone in the community. This includes businesses, industries, city-builders, organizations, educators, and institutions.

Climate change affects everyone differently. We aim to create programs and resources that make climate action inclusive and accessible. It’s important that everyone can join and benefit from our path to net-zero emissions.

This includes local communities and equity-deserving people. The City has developed Calgary’s Energy Equity Strategy: Advancing energy equity together. This is the first step toward a city where everyone can afford to efficiently heat, cool, and power their homes with clean energy.

We track climate action and GHG emissions through Calgary’s GHG emissions inventory. The inventory tracks GHG emissions from key sources in Calgary:

• Buildings: energy used in public, private and industrial buildings for heating, cooling, power and light (i.e. electricity and natural gas). ​
  
• Transportation: energy used for vehicles, including public, commercial, and private (diesel and gasoline).
  
• Waste: emissions from waste and wastewater facilities (i.e. methane)​.

This issue affects both Calgary and the global community. No matter where you live, how you travel, your job, or lifestyle, we all have a role in reducing Calgary’s GHG emissions to net-zero.