An independent Appointment Committee, chaired by Kathy Bardswick, has announced the inaugural members of the new Taxonomy and Transition Planning Council. Tasked with defining “green” and “transition” investment labels for the Canadian market, the Council aims to mobilise the estimated $115 billion in annual capital required for the nation’s low-carbon transition.
Marlene Puffer has been named the inaugural chair of the body, which will oversee the development of science-based investment criteria and sector-specific climate transition guidance.
The Council operates under Business Future Pathways and is supported by researchers at the Canadian Climate Institute. By the end of 2027, the group is expected to approve investment criteria for six priority sectors, addressing a gap that has seen Canada lag behind international trading partners. The framework is designed to provide global investors with the clarity needed to fund high-emitting industries as they pivot toward net-zero targets.
“The calibre of leaders who have stepped forward speaks volumes about the importance of these initiatives to Canada’s future growth,” said Kathy Bardswick.
Marlene Puffer added, “Canada needs credible, internationally-aligned tools to mobilise private capital for our companies, communities, and national priorities.”
The Council comprises a diverse group of experts, including Vice-Chair Jamey Hubbs and independent members Genevieve Morin and Scott Munro. They are joined by leads from the Financial Sector, Technical, and International Advisory Groups, ensuring the new standards are both practically implementable and scientifically robust.
