NLIS 5
June 3, 2003
(Environment)

 

Government releases discussion document on climate change

Environment Minister Bob Mercer released today a discussion paper on climate change in Newfoundland and Labrador. The purpose of the document is to engage key stakeholders and the general public in the development of an action plan on climate change for this province.

"Climate change is one of the major environmental issues of our time. While there remains much to be learned about the impact of climate change both globally and locally; we do know that the activities of people have led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions," said Minister Mercer. "And we do know that potentially there are significant impacts for coastal regions like Newfoundland and Labrador."

Minister Mercer said the expected impacts on this province include rising sea levels and increased storm action which will lead to coastal zone erosion and flooding. In the fishing sector, changes to ocean temperature and currents could influence distribution and migration patterns of important fish species. As well, the forestry and agriculture industries could be impacted by changes to air and soil temperatures that may positively influence growth rates of plants and trees, but may also lead to severe insect outbreaks.

"While this province contributes relatively little to the problem of greenhouse gas emissions, we will be impacted by changes in our climate resulting from the global accumulation of these gases," said Minister Mercer. "That is why we must do our part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We must also find ways to lessen the impacts of climate change."

Minister Mercer said this province needs to seek out ways to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency, particularly in the use of fossils fuels. He said the achievements announced just last week by the Health Care Corporation of St. John�s are excellent examples of what can be done at little or no increased cost. As well, there are opportunities to take advantage of low emission resources such as hydroelectricity and wind energy which can be developed to the benefit of this province.

Minister Mercer noted that the provincial government currently has policy objectives and strategies which do address the causes of climate change. These include:

  • Newfoundland and Labrador Waste Management Strategy. Increased recycling and better waste management reduce methane generation in landfills. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas.
  • Current public review of the Electricity Policy. Decisions made during the review will have implications for options available for renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives.
  • Pilot projects to assess the viability of wind power.
  • Promotion of energy efficiency in government-owned buildings including health care facilities and schools.
  • Provincial commitment to action on climate change through participation in the conference of New England Governors/Eastern Canadian Premiers.

"It is now time to formalize how we will address climate change through the development of an action plan for this province," said Minister Mercer. "This discussion document offers some options for all of us to consider to ensure that we do our part in mitigating the impacts of climate change. I encourage the public to express their views on what should be government�s priority actions on climate change. Through this process we will develop the appropriate action plan for our province in addressing climate change issues."

Public input will be received until Sept. 2, 2003. The discussion document can be accessed at: www.gov.nl.ca/env/whats_new.asp  Copies can also be obtained by contacting (709) 729-0027.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-2575

2003 06 03                                       2:00 p.m.


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