To create effective policy for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it is important to identify who is emitting. This study finds that household carbon footprints increase with income and concludes that GHG reduction policies must take inequality into consideration. The authors note that the richest 20% of Canadian income earners are responsible for almost double (1.8 times) the greenhouse gas emissions of those in the lowest income group. Accordingly, the study highlights policy options for emission reductions based on fairness and equity.
“We need the CCPA to remind us that our dreams of a decent, egalitarian society are reasonable — indeed that with a little work, they are practical. And I love that practicality, that protection of the dream of the possible.”
— Naomi Klein