Trudeau's environmental legacy marked by climate policy wins and pipeline controversy

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation marks the end of a near-decade in which his government passed significant environmental legislation while facing criticism for expanding fossil fuel infrastructure.

Carl Meyer and Fatima Syed report for The Narwhal.

In short:

• Trudeau’s administration established the Net Zero Emissions Accountability Act, mandating emissions targets to reach net-zero by 2050.
• The government controversially purchased the Trans Mountain pipeline, which tripled oil transport capacity despite climate pledges.
• Carbon pricing became law and withstood Supreme Court challenges, though it remains a political battleground.

Key quote:

“The past 10 years have seen a revolution in how we tackle climate change in Canada.”

— Caroline Brouillette, Climate Action Network Canada

Why this matters:

Trudeau’s environmental policies reshaped Canada’s climate strategy, yet the contradictions between climate goals and fossil fuel expansion highlight challenges in balancing economic and environmental priorities. His legacy may influence the next federal election’s direction on climate action.