In November 2021, Nova Scotia passed the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, a list of 28 legislated climate goals focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, growing the green and circular economies, improving the health and sustainability of Nova Scotia's environment, and moving Nova Scotia toward clean and renewable energy. The Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act sets ambitious greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets:
reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 53% below 2005 levels by 2030
achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050
As part of this effort, Nova Scotia has released Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia's Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth, which outlines what government is doing to reach these 2030 and 2050 targets and foster clean inclusive growth for all Nova Scotians. The Plan is broken down into four sections,
1. Responding to climate impacts
Increasing access to climate data and information
Building capacity for planning and implementation
Minimizing climate impacts by restoring natural areas and ecosystems
2. Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions
Creating a clean electricity system
Reducing our demand for energy
Helping Nova Scotians get off home heating oil and reduce home heating costs
Fast-track the transition to net-zero and climate resilient buildings
Creating cleaner transportation options
3. Seizing Opportunities for a Cleaner Sustainable Economy
Building on and expanding partnerships with experts
Developing skills for the clean economy
Helping our communities take action on climate change
Supporting sustainable growth in innovative clean technologies and services
4. Reporting and Evaluating Progress
The Climate Change Plan builds on the efforts of the government, businesses, and communities across the province to support Nova Scotians and respond to the impacts of climate change.
For more information, see more of What Nova Scotia is Doing.
