As the COP21 climate talks get underway in Paris, Canada is enjoying a newfound place in the international spotlight.
Canada announced today it will contribute $30 million to finance climate projects in the world’s least developed countries as part of a larger $2.65 billion pledge that will support the transition to low-carbon energy sources in developing nations.
This contribution is a significant overhaul of Canada’s previous $300 million pledge under the Conservative government.
“Canada recognizes the importance of supporting adaptation action in the most vulnerable countries, which are struggling with the impacts of climate change,” Catherine McKenna, environment and climate change minister, said. “We are proud to be part of this joint effort to further support the Least Developed Countries Fund.”
Even Bill Gates expressed his appreciation for Canada’s larger pledge.
With @BillGates & @JustinTrudeau before “mission innovation”: mobilisation for research in clean energy #COP21 pic.twitter.com/c8fdoqMySt
— Ségolène Royal (@RoyalSegolene) November 30, 2015
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also told media Canada still has work to do.