Ecology Action Centre applauds new environmental legislation, stresses need for immediate and fundamental action

Mi’kma’ki (Nova Scotia)
The Ecology Action Centre is applauding the Nova Scotia government's new Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act (EGCCRA), which was introduced earlier today and replaces the former Sustainable Development Goals Act (SDGA). 

“We’re thrilled to see this set of wide-ranging targets in legislation,” says Marla MacLeod, director of programs with the EAC. “Now we need accountability, follow-through and immediate action to address the climate and biodiversity emergencies.” 

The EAC noted several very positive aspects of the EGCCRA, including a commitment to phasing out coal by 2030, the inclusion of an electric vehicle mandate, a commitment to protecting 20 per cent of the province’s land and water by 2030 and a focus on equity as a core principle. However, the EAC also points to some key areas that need to be addressed. 

“We need to ensure we're not undermining our own progress by continuing with outdated industries, fossil fuel extraction and unproven carbon capture technologies. Missteps here will continue to increase our emissions and threaten our ecosystems,” says Noreen Mabiza, energy coordinator, with the EAC. “We'll be watching for meaningful action and specifics on issues like offshore oil and gas, biomass burning and open net-pen aquaculture.”  

Overall, the EAC says it‘s pleased with the EGCCRA and hopes that all provincial parties can come together to make these goals a reality. The EAC will release a more detailed, goal-by-goal analysis in the coming days. 

“This is a great step forward for Mi’kma’ki/Nova Scotia,” says Mabiza. “Public consultations on the SDGA have shown us that Nova Scotians are ready to get to work on a rapid transition that leaves no one behind. This seems like a sign that government is too.” 

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