With the election of Mark Carney as Prime Minister of Canada, we’ve embarked on a period of so-called “nation-building.” It’s an elbows-up response to the trade war initiated by the U.S. We’re looking to shore up domestic industries, build critical infrastructure, and strengthen Canada’s economy and our national identity.
In Canada’s history, numerous nation-building initiatives have contributed to unifying the country and defining its national identity. You know, projects like the transcontinental railway that actually connected the provinces of Canada and was essential to getting BC to join confederation. Or universal healthcare, which is perhaps our largest differentiator with our neighbours to the south and something Canadians are proud of to this day.
So it’s exciting that the country is once again dreaming big, and ready to make things happen. Except that some of the nation-building projects that governments are backing aren’t projects that are fit for the future, nor are they projects that I would be proud of. Listening to some politicians talk about all this, it’s like we’re still in the 1950s. I’m not joking.
The list begins with doubling the output of the Kitimat LNG facility – a move that would significantly increase climate pollution during an escalating climate crisis. It also includes mining projects, a port expansion, and a nuclear plant that may be exempted from crucial environmental reviews. (Also, how could a SMALL modular reaction be considered nation building?)
These choices stand in stark contrast to what Canadians need for a prosperous, sustainable future. If Canada’s nation building projects don’t position us to prosper in a clean energy future, we’re at risk of becoming a punch line. A new bitumen pipeline? In 2025? Really?
Real nation-building for the 21st century should focus on five key priorities:
1. Renewable Energy Development
Canada already generates 80% of its electricity from emissions-free sources, but modelling shows we’ll need seven times more renewable energy by 2035 to meet growing demand and our climate goals. Large-scale and community-level renewable projects would deliver affordable, clean power to Canadians while creating jobs and energy independence.
2. Low-Carbon Transportation Networks
The Windsor to Quebec City High Speed Rail project represents the kind of transportation infrastructure Canada needs. And in addition to this mega project, we need a comprehensive strategy that includes rural public transit connections, regional rail connecting major cities, and dedicated funding for transit operations. These investments would reduce emissions while connecting communities.
3. Energy-Efficient Housing
The federal government is getting into the business of building homes. That’s good. But those homes need to be energy efficient and affordable. A national program for building and retrofitting affordable, energy-efficient homes would address both our housing crisis and climate goals. By focusing on construction within existing towns and cities, we can create comfortable living spaces that reduce energy consumption and costs for residents.
4. Canadian EV Industry
Building a domestic electric vehicle industry – from manufacturing to charging infrastructure – would position Canada competitively in the global transition to clean transportation. We build and assemble cars here, and if we want to continue to do so in the future, we must turn our focus towards electric cars. This sector could leverage our skilled workforce and potential for clean electricity, clean steel, and responsibly mined critical minerals, while making EVs more accessible to Canadians.
5. Modernized Electricity Grid
An East-West electricity grid would allow provinces to share clean power across Canada, improving reliability and efficiency. Modernized grid infrastructure would enable greater integration of renewable energy sources and support the electrification of our economy.
Nation-building, done right.
Our list of 5 nation-building projects will put us on course to reach our climate goals all while building towards a future that is more affordable and equitable.
Canada stands at a pivotal moment. We can either cling to the industries of the past or join the global transition to a clean economy. By prioritizing renewable energy, sustainable transportation, efficient housing, clean vehicle manufacturing, and grid modernization, we can build a nation that is both prosperous and environmentally responsible.
We CAN make a difference before it’s too late.
