Environment, Economic Development Ministers Take Green Economy Tour to Pictou County

Creating environmental sustainability and expanding Nova Scotia's economy is key to the future of the province, community members and business leaders in Pictou County heard today, July 29.

It was the first joint stop for Environment Minister Mark Parent and Economic Development Minister Angus MacIsaac on a provincewide green economy tour to promote the vital link between the health of the economy and the health of the environment.

Mr. Parent was in Yarmouth on July 16 and Sydney on July 22. Mr. MacIsaac was in St. Peter's, Richmond Co., on July 11. With the support of regional development authorities, the tour also includes Cumberland, Annapolis and other counties this summer.

"I am impressed with the business and community leaders I've met in Yarmouth and Sydney who are excited about the opportunities of the green economy for this province," said Mr. Parent. "I am inspired by listening and learning from leaders across this province who are working every day to build a more sustainable future."

In May, the ministers released reports detailing the province's progress towards meeting commitments in the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act and in Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity, the province's economic growth strategy.

"Addressing environmental challenges goes hand in hand with growing and strengthening our economy," said Mr. MacIsaac. "Working closely with our community leaders, businesses and all Nova Scotians to achieve our goals will help to build a prosperous economy and ensure continued progress."

Environmental management and protection is one of government's five immediate priorities. The act sets out 21 far-reaching goals for the province. They include reduced air emissions and waste, new energy standards for buildings, and increased protection of land and water.

The act is a vital companion to Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity. It will help the province achieve economic performance at or above the national average by the year 2020 and build a foundation for continued growth.

More information on the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act and its progress report are available at www.gov.ns.ca/nse. The second annual progress report for Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity is available at www.gov.ns.ca/econ/ofsp .