Sustainable Jobs Action Plan sets important foundation, but more action needed

VANCOUVER, B.C. — MEGAN GORDON, manager of the Pembina Institute’s Equitable Transition program, made the following statement in response to the federal government’s release of the 2026-2030 Sustainable Jobs Action Plan:

“The release of the 2026-2030 Sustainable Jobs Action Plan comes at a moment when countries around the world are accelerating investment in low-carbon industries. These industries are defining the next phase of global economic growth and quickly becoming central to global competitiveness.

“For Canada, this represents a major economic opportunity. Diversifying into competitive low-carbon industries can strengthen domestic supply chains, expand export markets and create high-quality, sustainable careers. But we cannot realize this potential without a ready and supported workforce to fill these roles and drive the transition.

“The Action Plan, built on extensive consultation and input from industry, communities and labour, is an important step forward. It signals that the federal government recognizes that remaining competitive in a net-zero economy requires intentional workforce planning and coordination, so that workers and communities can fully share in the benefits of economic transformation.

“But recognition must now translate into delivery. The scale and speed of global economic change, combined with rising geopolitical uncertainty and shifting trade relationships, make implementation more urgent than ever. To compete in growing low-carbon industries, the Action Plan needs clear timelines, defined responsibilities, strong coordination across federal departments and sustained funding. Without these elements, it risks becoming a statement of intent rather than a roadmap for action.

“We look forward to engaging with responsible ministries on ensuring the concepts outlined in this plan — such as labour conditions/industrial policies — manifest as real, funded policy improvements, that the details of existing announcements are made clear, and that robust, accessible labour-market data is made available to inform workforce planning.

“Canada’s ability to diversify and compete in a less predictable global economy will depend on moving quickly and cohesively from planning to delivery. A strong workforce is essential. Workers and communities must be prepared not only to manage change, but to lead it.”

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