News release

Province Introduces Anti-Idling Legislation

Environment (April 2008 - Feb. 2021)

Fewer idling vehicles will mean reduced harmful emissions and cleaner air for Nova Scotians.

Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau introduced the Anti-idling Act today, Nov. 26, that would make Nova Scotia the first province to adopt such a law.

"Nova Scotians expect this government to take a leadership role in matters related to climate change," said Mr. Belliveau. "As a province, we can do better to reduce unnecessary and harmful vehicle emissions so we can improve air quality and quality of life for Nova Scotians today and over time."

The legislation will require school bus companies, tour bus companies and transit authorities to have an anti-idling policy in place by Oct. 1, 2011.

The minister acknowledged and applauded the operators that already have policies in place.

The legislation will also require government to adopt an anti-idling policy for provincial vehicles.

"An anti-idling policy will help move us towards our targets set out in the Climate Change Action Plan and the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act," said Mr. Belliveau.

"We are accomplishing a number of things with this legislation by protecting the environment, improving air quality and reducing maintenance and fuel costs. Most importantly, we hope Nova Scotians see the example we're setting and follow suit by reducing their idling."

For a fact sheet on anti-idling, visit: www.gov.ns.ca/nse/air/.