Carbon Management Strategies of Canadian Industrial Emitters: Competing in a Carbon-constrained World

Starting in 2008, under Canada’s Project Green, electricity generation, mining and manufacturing industries will have to reduce their carbon emissions. This conversion will have a substantial financial cost. Successful companies will reap the benefits. Companies that are unable to meet their targets economically will put their long-term competitiveness and shareholder value at risk. This report uses the findings of a Conference Board survey and expert interviews as the basis for analyzing the implications for Canadian companies. This report shows that surveyed Canadian industrial emitters are taking significant action to reduce carbon emissions in preparation for the first Kyoto commitment period (2008–12). Survey evidence also suggests that, in some areas, there is more that companies can do to successfully manage the transition. While a commitment to environmental stewardship is a motivation, companies are looking ahead and taking action to reduce costs, enhance productivity, foster their competitive advantage and ensure long-term profitability.