Environmental stewardship

Canadians expect their postal service to play a leading role in the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future, and it’s a responsibility we embrace.

-Doug Ettinger,

President and CEO, Canada Post

A greener, more sustainable Canada Post

Climate action targets

Canada Post is committed to taking action on climate change. We have set ambitious emissions reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. Our targets include:

  • Reducing operational emissions by 50% by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions across our value chain by 2050
  • Obtaining 95% of electricity from non-emitting sources by 2030
  • Electrifying 100% of our last-mile fleet by 2040
  • Ensuring that a minimum of 67% of suppliers, by spend, adopt a science-based target or equivalent by December 31, 2025
A 100% electric Canada Post truck drives along a road with the Vancouver, B.C. skyline in the background

Net-zero roadmap

Near-term target horizon
Long-term target horizon
Near-term target horizon
Near-term target horizon
 
 

2019-2022

Baseline (2019), Canada Post sets 1.5 °C SBT and commits to net-zero (2022)

 
 

2023

Switch to over 90% renewable electricity in Alberta, 100 Evs added to the fleet

 
 

2024

Switch to over 90% renewable electricity in Saskatchewan

 
 

2025

67% of suppliers (by spend) and all subsidiaries have set an SBT

Long-term target horizon
Long-term target horizon
 
 

2030

Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions reduced 50%, 95% of electricity consumption from non-emitting sources

 
 

2040

Last-mile vehicle fleet 100% electric

 
 

2050

Net-zero

Key environmental programs

Canada Post hybrid and electric delivery vehicles parked in a row.

Sustainable delivery

We’ve committed to electrifying 100% of our last-mile fleet by 2040. Additionally, all regular and expedited domestic ground delivery services are carbon neutral. We purchase high-quality carbon offsets in amounts equivalent to the emissions generated by these shipments.
Exterior of a modern Canada Post facility.

Climate transition plan

Canada Post recognizes the seriousness of the need for action on climate change. We’ve developed a climate transition plan that integrates deep emission reductions across our value chain into our business model and strategy, while also ensuring we address our top climate-related risks and maximize climate-related opportunities.
A Canada Post mail processing facility.

Zero waste

We’re transforming our waste diversion and recycling processes. Our targets are to divert 90% of non-hazardous operational waste and 90% of construction and demolition waste by 2030.
A letter carrier holds a shipping box and a bubble mailer. Their Canada Post vehicle is parked nearby.

Green packaging

We’re working with industry partners and retailers to reduce packaging waste throughout the mail stream, and expanding our offering of sustainable packaging and delivery solutions.

Case study: Assessing our impact on biodiversity

We have conducted a geographical assessment of locations where we operate in Canada to determine if any are located in Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) or Critical Habitat Areas (CHAs) across Canada. Two species at risk, identified by Environment Canada for sites located in CHAs, have been found at Canada Post facilities. We continue to take steps to mitigate impacts on these species.

  • Brown bats in Balcarres, Saskatchewan Brown bats can typically roost in buildings where they raise offspring throughout the summer. To support this endangered species, Canada Post installed bat houses on poles outside the building to provide necessary alternative housing while they roost.
  • Chimney swifts in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Chimney swifts nest in chimneys during specific times of the year. Canada Post has adjusted any scheduled roof maintenance work outside of nesting and migration windows.

Read more about how we’re protecting biodiversity

A collage of 3 images: a brown bat sits on a human hand, bat houses positioned outside a Canada Post office, and a Chimney swift bird sitting on a tree branch.

Green tips for consumers

Here are some practical ways to lessen your impact on the environment.

Recycle your mail

Environment Canada reports that landfills account for about 20% of Canada’s methane gas emissions. Recycling can significantly reduce the amount of material deposited in landfills. Many municipalities have expanded the types of items being accepted for recycling, including windowed envelopes, magazines, glossy flyer paper and catalogues. Confidential documents can be shredded, then recycled.

Change your address when you move

Use Mail Forwarding when you move or temporarily relocate to a new address. Rest assured you won’t miss infrequent mailings such as tax slips, licences or health card renewals, and will avoid unnecessarily printing duplicate mail.

Reduce advertising mail

You can request to have your name removed from marketing lists that send personalized and unaddressed advertising mail.

Consumers’ Choice

Stop receiving unaddressed advertising mail delivered by Canada Post. You’ll still receive unaddressed advertising delivered by services other than Canada Post.