Ministers Take Green Economy Tour to Annapolis Royal

Creating environmental sustainability and economic growth are essential to the future prosperity of Nova Scotia.

That is the message Environment Minister Mark Parent and Economic Development Minister Angus MacIsaac delivered to business and community leaders in Annapolis Royal today, Aug. 25, while promoting the importance of a green economy.

"So far this summer, I've visited five communities around the province and listened to the exciting things they are working on to promote economic and environmental success in Nova Scotia," said Mr. Parent. "I can't help but feel excited and optimistic that Nova Scotians are positioning themselves to be world leaders in the green economy."

Mr. MacIsaac advised business and community leaders about the economic value of environmental management and protection.

"Protecting the environment is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense," said Mr. MacIsaac. "Our communities and businesses play a pivotal role in achieving our environmental and economic goals."

Regional development authorities are supporting the green economy tour. The ministers' next joint visit will be in Bridgewater in September.

Environmental management and protection is one of government's five immediate priorities. Nova Scotia's Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act sets out 21 far-reaching goals for the province. They range from reduced air emissions and waste, to new energy standards for buildings and increased protection of land and water.

The act is a vital companion to the province's economic development strategy, 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.

Reports detailing the province's progress towards meeting commitments in the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act and in Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity were released in May, showcasing government's commitment to making Nova Scotia one of the greenest, healthiest, and most economically sustainable environments in the world by 2020.

More information on the act and its progress report are available on the Department of Environment's website at www.gov.ns.ca/nse . The second annual progress report for Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity is available on the Department of Economic Development's website at www.gov.ns.ca/econ/ofsp .