Budget 2014 Takes Action on Energy Conservation and Environmental Management

Demonstrating a commitment to the preservation of the province’s pristine environment, valuable land and natural heritage resources, Budget 2014 invests $9.3 million into energy conservation, climate change, and environmental protection initiatives. Highlighting the investments across several government departments are key measures to strengthen the province’s resilience in the face of climate change with initiatives encouraging energy conservation in schools and households across the province.

“Our government is demonstrating leadership on tackling climate change, protecting the environment and improving energy conservation through decisions and investments recognizing the importance of conservation for the benefit of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. We are investing $9.3 million to conserve energy in our homes and schools, and investing in our communities and natural heritage to ensure a sustainable future. The Provincial Government is committed to promoting a clean, sustainable environment and healthy ecosystems to meet the social, physical, cultural and economic needs of present and future generations.”
- The Honourable Joan Shea, Minister of Environment and Conservation and Minister Responsible for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency

The Provincial Government is proving its commitment to energy conservation by identifying areas based on economic and environmental factors. Six priorities are identified for funding in Budget 2014, including a $350,000 investment over two years for an energy conservation pilot project in schools.

Budget 2014 also provides $12 million for a three-year extension of the Residential Energy Efficiency Program to help households with low incomes make energy retrofits to their homes. This is also referenced as part of Budget 2014 Poverty Reduction Strategy announcements.

Protecting our Shores
Budget 2014 provides permanent funding of more than $300,000 annually for the Provincial Government’s Coastal and Oceans Management Strategy and Policy Framework. Launched in 2011, this initiative provides long-term strategic direction on the sustainable use of the province’s marine resources by supporting coordination across government, ensuring decisions are based on information and research, and promoting public education and awareness.

Preservation of the Environment and Natural Habitat
Budget 2014 provides funding for several key initiatives, including $975,000 over three years to fund a scientific monitoring and research program for the George River Caribou Herd under the Labrador Caribou Initiative, and $6 million over three years for the second phase of site remediation at the former military site in Hopedale.

For further details see the Backgrounder: Taking Action on Energy Conservation and Environmental Management.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is investing $9.3 million in environmental protection as part of Budget 2014.
• The energy conservation awareness program for schools is the first of a two-year pilot project.
• $6 million is being invested over three years for remediation of contaminated soil in Hopedale, totalling $13 million since 2011.
• The Provincial Government announced a three-year Labrador Caribou Initiative in 2011 and a five-year hunting ban on the George River Caribou Herd in 2013.

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• Backgrounder - Taking Action on Energy Conservation and Environmental Management

Media contact:
Deborah Thomas
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation;
Office of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
709-729-2575, 728-8092
deborahthomas@gov.nl.ca
 
2014 03 27                                        3:05 p.m.