Question 1

In 2025, what significant change occurred regarding Canada's carbon pricing system, affecting consumer fuel charges?

Accepted Answer

The consumer carbon price was eliminated at the federal, provincial, and territorial levels.

Question 2

According to the EPA's National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution released in November 2024, what is the overarching goal and target year for eliminating plastic waste release into the environment?

Accepted Answer

To eliminate the release of plastic waste by 2040.

Question 3

The U.S. experienced a record number of billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2024 and 2023. How many such events were recorded in 2024, and what was the approximate total cost?

Accepted Answer

27 events, costing approximately $182.7 billion.

Question 4

In 2025, which North American region saw the repeal of its Endangered Species Act and its replacement with the Species Conservation Act, leading to concerns about habitat protection for at-risk wildlife?

Accepted Answer

Ontario, Canada

Question 5

The Mexico Plastics Pact (PPMX), launched in 2024, is a collaborative platform aiming to accelerate the transition to a circular economy for plastics. Which organization is leading this initiative?

Accepted Answer

WWF Mexico

Question 6

As of April 2025, what was the federal carbon price in Canada per tonne of CO2 equivalent, with a planned increase to $170 in 2030?

Accepted Answer

$80 per tonne

Question 7

In the United States, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), passed in 2022, has been a key driver of renewable energy. What significant policy shift regarding the IRA was planned for 2025 by the current administration?

Accepted Answer

A reduction or elimination of unspent funds.

Question 8

The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) aims to protect and restore the Great Lakes. What was a key priority for the GLRI in its 2025 Federal Priorities, with a call for substantial funding?

Accepted Answer

Reauthorizing GLRI for $500 million annually and calling for $475 million in FY 2026.

Question 9

Regarding plastic waste management in the USA, the EPA is pushing for upstream policies. Which of the following acts is cited as a comprehensive piece of legislation aiming to ban problematic single-use plastics and establish national Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?

Accepted Answer

The Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act

Question 10

What significant policy change concerning offshore wind leasing was enacted in the U.S. in January 2025, effectively freezing development nationwide?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawal of all Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) areas from offshore wind leasing.

North American Environmental Headlines: 2025 Policy Shifts, Climate Disasters, and Plastic Pollution

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