(HALIFAX) - The Green Party of Nova Scotia and Green Party of Canada are calling on Nova Scotia and other Atlantic provinces to set new climate targets, improve the east-west energy grid and transition to a 21st century, sustainable energy economy:
“While other provinces are actively working to shut down coal-based energy, the looming re-opening of Donkin mine shows the NS government is still clinging to outdated energy,” said Brynn Nheiley, Green Party NS Interim Leader.
“The NS government’s target to reduce GHG emissions from electricity by more than half from 2009 levels by 2030 is too weak,” Ms. Nheiley said. Instead, the government should adopt a more ambitious target of phasing out all coal from electricity generation by 2025, creating long term NS jobs through improving the east-west grid, and investing in energy savings and renewable energy.”
Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada, said: “The Nova Scotia MPs are all representing the government party. As such, they have a great opportunity to advocate for significant investments for Nova Scotia in renewable energy and green technology.”
Andrew Younger (independent MLA, Dartmouth East) joined Ms. Nheiley and Ms. May to announce a bill he will be presenting to the legislature to maximize the benefits to Nova Scotians from the Paris Agreement.
“Nova Scotia is better positioned than many jurisdictions to take advantage of jobs in the green energy sector,” Younger said. “Especially in light of uncertainty around Muskrat Falls, Nova Scotians need the support of government to understand and be part of the plan going forward and the opportunities for employment in the green energy sector.”
May added: “Nova Scotians, like all Canadians, could be leading the country in embracing the 21st century economy, where clean-tech jobs and renewable energy drives growth. Neighbouring provinces need to work together to invest in energy-efficient infrastructure and rebuild a decentralized energy network. Embracing 21st century, renewable energy will keep Nova Scotians employed and thriving for generations to come.”