OTTAWA—Two prominent members of Canada’s Net-Zero Advisory Body (NZAB) have resigned, expressing frustration over the government's disregard for climate advice and a shift toward new oil and gas projects. Simon Donner, a professor at the University of British Columbia and co-chair of the NZAB, announced his resignation on Wednesday. He stated that he was no longer willing to provide advice that was being ignored.

"I was comfortable chairing an appointed body whose advice is considered but ultimately rejected—after all, no one elected us. I was not comfortable with the process becoming neglected or performative, and it had begun to feel that way to me," Donner wrote in a LinkedIn post.

Catherine Abreu, director of the International Climate Politics Hub, followed suit on Thursday. She criticized a recent memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Ottawa and Alberta, which could facilitate the construction of a new oil pipeline to British Columbia. Abreu stated, "New major oil and gas projects, as proposed in the new MOU with Alberta, will use Canadian taxpayer dollars to grow what is already the largest- and least-controlled source of climate pollution in the country."

The NZAB was established in 2021 to provide independent advice on climate policy and monitor Canada’s progress toward its climate goals. Abreu warned that the government's new climate strategy could reverse progress made and jeopardize future targets. "It is devastating to see these glimmers of progress set aside so readily," she said.

The resignations come amid growing discontent with Prime Minister Mark Carney's administration. On November 27, Steven Guilbeault, a former heritage minister and climate activist, resigned in protest of the MOU. Other members of the Liberal Party have also voiced concerns. Toronto MP Nate Erskine-Smith acknowledged some positive aspects of the agreement but criticized it for giving Alberta too much power. He described it as "climate backsliding and a distraction from the ambition we need."

B.C. Liberal MP Patrick Weiler criticized changes to carbon capture tax credits included in the MOU, which would allow companies to receive tax benefits for enhanced oil recovery projects.

The NZAB, which now has only four members following the resignations, was designed to provide independent advice and file annual reports on climate policy. Abreu noted that requests for their expertise have diminished since Carney took office. "I would say we haven’t been given opportunities to be listened to by this government," she said.

Karen Ross, another NZAB member, expressed uncertainty about her future with the group, citing a lack of consultation on significant changes to climate policies. "There have been major changes to existing climate policies that will now no longer allow us to get anywhere close to achieving our 2030 or 2035 targets," she said.

Michael Bernstein, president of Clean Prosperity and a current NZAB member, plans to remain with the advisory body. He believes the Carney government is pursuing the right goals, particularly in focusing on carbon markets as a means of decarbonization. Bernstein emphasized the need for clarity on how the government plans to implement its policies.

Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin's press secretary acknowledged the contributions of Donner and Abreu and stated that the minister intends to meet with the advisory group before the end of the year. Canada is expected to release an updated emissions reduction plan by year’s end, as the country faces scrutiny over its ability to meet its climate targets for 2030.