The Ecology Action Centre is working at the policy level to encourage decision makers to take action and address the climate emergency. Enacting more stringent climate accountability regulations will enhance the likelihood of achieving long-term outcomes consistent with targets established by both the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada. Policy, accountability, and regulations are needed to move us actively and efficiently toward securing a better future.
Climate Accountability
Climate Accountability
Improving accountability leads to greater progress and action on an issue that cannot tolerate further delay. This form of leadership and responsibility also leads to greater predictability and certainty for everyone, including investors, businesses, municipal and federal governments, and the public. Simply put, mechanisms that are enshrined in law and made mandatory are needed to achieve progress on Nova Scotia’s climate goals.
Our recommended accountability measures have been developed into a briefing note focused on The Sustainable Development Goals Act. Read the SDGA accountability measures briefing note here.
Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act (EGCCRA)
Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act (EGCCRA)
In November 2021, the Government of Nova Scotia passed the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. This Act lays out a series of goals to advance the protection of the environment.
While good, it could be stronger.
Its 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 are all positive measures. However, there are also key areas that are weak or missing. We need to ensure we're not undermining our own progress by continuing with outdated industries, fossil fuel extraction, and unproven carbon capture technologies.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. Learn more about EGCCRA and our work.