California, Canada partner on climate action at Summit of the Americas

Gov. Gavin Newsom met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles Thursday to enter into a partnership aimed at advancing climate action.

Newsom and Trudeau held a bilateral meeting at the California Science Center, where they signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to fight climate change, protect the environment, build climate resilience, advance zero-emission vehicles and reduce pollution and plastic waste. The partnership includes commitment to engage with indigenous people in biodiversity conservation.

“We can’t fight the climate crisis on our own — we need to work together with partners all across the globe to achieve humanity’s most important task: saving our planet,” Newsom said. “This partnership with Canada is a vital step on California’s path to a cleaner, greener future and is the latest expression of our shared values. Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient future for millions and lighting the path for other nations and nation-states to follow our lead.”

Potential “cooperative activities” outlined in the partnership include the collaboration and sharing of technical information and practices regarding greenhouse gas and other emissions, spur emission reductions by 2030 and build resilience in the face of rising sea levels, flooding, wildfires and other climate change impacts.

“Canadians and Californians share a commitment to building a clean, strong future,” said Trudeau. “Today, as we launch a new partnership on climate action and nature protection, we’re teaming up to deliver the clean air, healthy environment and good jobs our citizens deserve. I look forward to everything we can do next to deepen our shared work.”