Leaders from the Climate, Energy and Environment ministries of the G7 are planning a high‑level meeting in Sapporo with a clear target: cut greenhouse gas emissions from the automotive sector by half by 2035. The announcement, linked to coverage from NHK, signals a coordinated push among the world’s major economies to accelerate a shift toward cleaner transport options while maintaining energy reliability and economic viability for consumers across Canada and the United States.
The plan sets a benchmark: by 2035, carbon dioxide emissions from new passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks should be reduced by 50 percent relative to levels in 2000. Achieving this target will require a mix of measures, including more efficient internal combustion engines, broader adoption of electrified transportation, and supportive policies that make cleaner choices affordable and practical for everyday users. The emphasis is on providing a credible path that helps industries transition without sudden cost shocks that could hinder consumer uptake.
In addition to cutting vehicle emissions, ministers are expected to pursue an aggressive goal to curb plastic pollution by 2040. This broader environmental strategy acknowledges the close link between the transport sector and materials use, encouraging innovations in packaging, waste management, and product design that minimize environmental impact across the lifecycle of vehicles and their components.
In parallel, policy discussions in Europe have highlighted divergent approaches. The Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security has voiced concerns about a rapid ban on the manufacture and sale of internal combustion engine cars after 2035. The argument rests on the idea that zero emissions can be achieved through a balanced mix of technologies, including more efficient engines, electrification, and potentially other clean powertrains. A successful transition hinges on the affordability of cleaner vehicles and the availability of charging and refueling infrastructure that fits diverse consumer needs, from urban commuters to rural drivers.
Looking at the broader picture, a February parliamentary debate in the European Union supported moves to phase out new fossil fuel vehicles in the coming years, with a target that may see a substantial reduction in emissions from new models by 2030. These regional discussions underscore a common global objective: reduce the climate impact of transportation while keeping the market open to multiple pathways. Industry analysts in North America note that progress will depend on a stable policy environment, reliable energy supply, and ongoing investment in innovation that lowers the cost of clean mobility solutions. Consumers will benefit from clearer timelines, transparent standards, and stronger incentives that reward efficiency and low-emission technologies. The result could be a more resilient transport system that serves both environmental goals and economic interests, enabling smoother transitions for automakers, suppliers, and workplaces across Canada, the United States, and beyond.