A Brief History of Climate Change Central

Recognizing that global climate change is a serious concern, Alberta became the first province in Canada to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Premier Ralph Klein named Canada's first Cabinet committee on climate change in February 1998. The committee consulted with stakeholders including those from the academic, environmental, industry and business communities.

In October 1998, Alberta announced its Strategy for Action on Climate Change, a plan that was well received throughout Canada. Premier Klein directed the Alberta government and the Alberta Economic Development Authority to work together to organize a round table on climate change, which was held at the end of April 1999.

The Climate Change Round Table identified the need to take swift action to manage the risks associated with climate change. In May 1999, Premier Klein announced that work would begin immediately on Climate Change Central, a private-public partnership that would follow up and implement the key directions and recommendations of the Round Table.

A multi-stakeholder steering committee began to explore ways to set up Climate Change Central. It was determined that Climate Change Central's strategies should highlight innovation, technology and public participation.

In November, 1999, the Alberta government formally established Climate Change Central as a public/private not-for-profit to take action on climate change. Premier Klein announced the agency's operating funding, senior board executives and a process for establishing a board of directors.